The Art of My Nightly Routine

 

The peak of art in my life is my nightly setup in my bed that makes me feel like everything will be okay. Through every season, this setup has been my comfort each night. It’s been in the works for a while, but I feel I have finally perfected it. First, and most importantly, I fill up my trusty water bottle with crisp, ice cold water. Next, because I’m already in the kitchen, I’ll get myself a snack, bonus points if it’s fruit that was cut up by my mom. Balancing a plate in one hand and my heavy canteen in the other, I make my way upstairs. The very first task upstairs is to plug in the lights above my bed and turn off the ceiling lights. Is there anyone who can fully relax when the glaring overhead lights are on? Only then does the real party begin. I set my sips and nibbles down on my nightstand and get in my roughly-made bed. I open my laptop and start playing either the current sitcom I’m watching, or a nostalgic movie I’ve been craving. Recently, it’s been Disney classics on repeat. Once my little cinema is up and rolling, I grab the snacks, placing them on my lap, and my water bottle, tucking it between my pillows and stuffed animals. Slowly, I’ll start sinking into the bed. At this point, my cat, Kirby, will also make her way up and lay at my feet where a blanket is already set up for her. Eventually, my eyes will begin shutting on their own, only open enough so I can still see the movie. When I’m ready to end this heavenly routine, I close my laptop and set on my nightstand, barely moving my body. Then, of course, I get to have the most effortless sleep.

This is a written depiction of how close my life will ever get to perfection. This process is what I consider art in my life because it highlights the beauty in routine and everyday life. Dedicating time to doing something I’m certain will make each day a little better and, therefore, my life better has allowed me to slow each day down. By acknowledging this process as a method of healing and therapy, I’m also able to appreciate it more than if it were to simply happen by chance - the intention behind it is what makes it as impactful as it is. This routine will surely continue to be an anchor in my life as every other aspect in my life is expected to change soon.