When I invite authors into The Authors’ Tent, I frequently ask about their writing routines. Turnabout is fair play, of course, so at the risk of sounding presumptuous (I’m unpublished…), here are some of the rituals I’ve incorporated into my own writing practice:
1, Clearing the Air. While I’m drinking my coffee, I burn a palo santo stick or light a candle under a small bowl of essential oil–infused water. As the smoke tendrils waft across my desk, I allow my morning mind to wander.
Some people draw inspiration and healing from special fragrances; others scoff and say that aromatherapy’s pure bunk. I say: Whatever works.
2. Bringing Light into my work space. When I flip the switch on my Buddha lamp, I pray that my story will reflect my own inner Light. He sits on the credenza beneath my office window, so whenever my eyes drift away from my my manuscript, I’m looking serenity in the face.
(It could be any light, really, but I love my smiling Buddha. He has a blissful face and prayerful hands, which speaks to me of contentment and inner peace.)
3. Seeking inspiration. I like to reflect on short passages from spiritual texts. Or for a light-hearted alternative, I have two decks of cards from which to draw: Power Thought Cards and Zen Cards.
(Let me know if you want me to pick a card for you today…)
4. Practicing yoga. I’m not as consistent as I’d like to be. But when I allow time for yoga in the morning, I find it easier to stay centered throughout the day. It also replenishes my energy (in all senses of that word), which translates itself into vigorous, authentic writing.
5. Connecting with my friends. Last, but certainly not least, I spend a little time on LiveJournal almost every morning, and at random points throughout the day. I realize that some people consider blogging a colossal waste of time, but I consider it a priceless opportunity to learn from (and grow alongside) good-hearted, talented people.
So I’m wondering…what gets you started in the morning, and what keeps you going throughout the day?
Tea and LJ when I wake up, to boot the brain! *g*
Yep! Nothing like caffeine and companionship to help usher in the morning. 🙂
I love the image of you and your smiling Buddha exchanging glances throughout the day.
I start my day with yoga. I agree that it keeps us centered throughout the day. When I’m getting ready to write, I do my midline figure-eights to kick-start both halves of my brain.
I hadn’t thought about doing something to connect both hemispheres, but now that you’ve mentioned it…it makes total sense! Hmm, I’ll have to figure out something similar. Maybe dance around the room with my tambourine? Nah, no one wants to hear loud music that early in the morning…
I love that Buddha lamp to pieces. 🙂 They’re on the clearance rack at the Borders where my writing group meets. I almost bought the last remaining lamp, for…I dunno. How silly is that? I was thinking someone else might like one, too, but it’s probably one of those things that you have to pick out for yourself.
Oh, pick a card for me!
I’m glad you asked! *g* The cards don’t always resonate or ring true, but they’re lots of fun to think about.
First, from the Zen deck:
COMMUNITY. Understand that you will be like those with whom you SURROUND yourself. Your environment is stronger than you are.
And from the Power Thoughts deck:
I SEE CLEARLY. I willingly forgive. I breathe love into my vision, and I see with compassion and understanding. My clear insight is reflected in my outer sight.
Love these.
And they do ring true — even the environment one. Which is why I’m so grateful for you and the LJ writer community that surrounds me with such hope and positivity.
Thank you!
You’re very welcome! And (hoping this goes without saying, but I’ll express it anyway): The blessings are mutual.
I’m glad you asked! *g* The cards don’t always resonate or ring true, but they’re lots of fun to think about.
First, from the Zen deck:
COMMUNITY. Understand that you will be like those with whom you SURROUND yourself. Your environment is stronger than you are.
And from the Power Thoughts deck:
I SEE CLEARLY. I willingly forgive. I breathe love into my vision, and I see with compassion and understanding. My clear insight is reflected in my outer sight.
what gets me started in the morning
Definitely, definitely LJ. My very most favorite and positive addiction.
Also a long walk in the morning 🙂
Re: what gets me started in the morning
Lots of love in this community, isn’t there? And learning.
Do you take aerobic walks, or is it a meandering stroll through your neighborhood? I love solitary walks, but on the whole, I prefer walking with a partner.
Re: what gets me started in the morning
I think it’s much closer to a stroll, because I’m looking around at things and sometimes taking photos. In fact, I recently thought I’d maybe try doing a little running, precisely because I really *don’t* have an aerobic form of exercise.
Walking with a friend is a wonderful way to spend time with a friend, and I do enjoy that too, but I like walking alone because then I can give my whole attention to the scene. Also, I use that alone time as time to think things over, and sometimes to invent stories. So I do like solitary walks very much.
And you’re so right about LJ as a place for learning, too. So, so many things. I care more about the world, and in a realer, less abstract way, because of friends on LJ.
Re: what gets me started in the morning
I think it’s much closer to a stroll, because I’m looking around at things and sometimes taking photos. In fact, I recently thought I’d maybe try doing a little running, precisely because I really *don’t* have an aerobic form of exercise.
Walking with a friend is a wonderful way to spend time with a friend, and I do enjoy that too, but I like walking alone because then I can give my whole attention to the scene. Also, I use that alone time as time to think things over, and sometimes to invent stories. So I do like solitary walks very much.
And you’re so right about LJ as a place for learning, too. So, so many things. I care more about the world, and in a realer, less abstract way, because of friends on LJ.
Re: what gets me started in the morning
Lots of love in this community, isn’t there? And learning.
Do you take aerobic walks, or is it a meandering stroll through your neighborhood? I love solitary walks, but on the whole, I prefer walking with a partner.
That darn alarm clock gets me started in the mornings and the pay on paydays keeps me going. Got to have that pay check or the Mrs gets upset. Besides I get to be outside and see the beauty that blooms around one even in the un likest places.
Ha! Alarm clocks are certainly helpful, but I prefer something a little less jangly. 🙂
You’re a morning person like I am, right? So many of God’s secrets and wonders are revealed in the earliest hours of the day…
Ha! Alarm clocks are certainly helpful, but I prefer something a little less jangly. 🙂
You’re a morning person like I am, right? So many of God’s secrets and wonders are revealed in the earliest hours of the day…
I can’t understand those who think blogging is a waste of time. It’s such a wonderful opportunity to meet truly amazing people (like yourself) that you might not normally ever run across. I think it’s an absolute gift.
I really do need to build some sort of ritual like you have, to get my writing going. I really, really, really need to.
Thank you for being such an inspiration. 🙂
I do miss my coffee in the mornings. I let myself have it sometimes but not every day. I have a glass of OJ which isn’t the same at all.
I am mostly without routine at the moment but for good reason (I need to call you and bring you up to date on some amazing things.) But I start with an email/blog check. I should be back in my office in another week and hope to be more dedicated to a morning routine.
Exercise should be a part of it but alas, is not.
I’d love a card if you’re still willing.
Yoshi wakes me up every morning around 5:30 by patting my cheek and then head-butting my shoulder.
And it’s nice to know that the start to our day is similar, although I drink herbal tea and light sweetgrass and white sage incense, while listening to Yanni…or Neil Diamond.
And, aromatherapy is NOT bunk!! It’s how I control the pain in my legs throughout the day. The same people who do not believe in aromatherapy, probably do not believe in bio-feedback either.