This book by Morgan Harper Nichols and journal was given to me as a graduation gift. When I received them I thought, "I am going to journal EVERY morning this summer." Well, that didn't happen. Turns out it is very challenging to start new habits and rhythms. But the best way to start? My secret to habits?
Just starting, and taking it one day at a time without judgement.
For me, my spirituality and religion is very important to me. I believe we are wholistic beings, meaning that all of our parts (physical, spiritual, mental, etc.) impact each other. Even for the non-religious, spirituality can be an important part of wellness. That is why I leave it open to my clients to bring into the session, because it is their time, their healing, and I want them to have the freedom to show me what is important to them.
That being said, for me, I am a Christian. I have a history of journaling my prayers, but to be honest, since the pandemic and surviving through grad school, I have not journaled in a long time. But this week, I started back, and maybe I'll have a different rhythm next week. For now, I am grateful for these quiet mornings with Morgan Harper Nichols poetry.
I love how she highlights grace and gratefulness. One of her poems can be taken as religious, or taken as something general.
The simple act of focusing on gratefulness can improve mental health.
So whatever it means to you, I invite you to rest on her poetic words, and let them add beauty to your life.
For me, as a verbal processor, it helps for me to write. So I normally copy one of her poems, and then write my own thoughts or a short prayer, applying what the poem was about. Sometimes my prayer is completely unrelated, but a way for me to connect spiritually the truth of my heart that morning.
Journaling can be a way to get anxious thoughts on paper, to introduce mindfulness to our thought life.
The poem from this morning:
Take heart
Take heart
Do not be afraid
The future may be uncertain
But there is no need to hide away
Everyday is an opportunity
To courageously show up
Even when you do not feel equipped
Or that you will be enough
Let grace surprise you
Setting fire to your bones
Strengthening your mind
In the wild of your unknowns
- MHN
The words that stand out to me are "courageously show up even when you do not feel equipped." Courage is a big theme in my life right now, and boy do I have moments of fear and uncertainty in the face of unknowns. What stands out to you? What encourages your heart?
Have you ever tried journaling? What are your morning rhythms and mindful rituals?
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