Making My Bed To Lie On

I am by nature a non-bed maker. When I get up in the morning the last thing I think about is bothering with throwing off pillows and blankets, straightening the sheets, and carefully lining them all back up in an inviting and peaceful manner. I just didn't think it was worth my time. They're just going to get messed up again anyway, right? So why bother?

As a fortysomething woman I am a little embarrassed to share the fact I never got this habit down. It just never seemed worth my time. 

I tried an experiment for the past couple weeks. I bought the bedroom set pictured above from Macy's as incentive (to replace the cat claw-pilled blankets I've been using for years) and decided to add making my bed to the morning routine. Incidentally, this is the first time I've ever bought decorative pillows. And actually used the shams that match the comforter. 

Here's what I've learned. 

1. Making your bed takes away the pressure to perform. When you've already finished a tangible, visible task there is a psychological respite. I look at the bed with its pretty patterns and pop of color, I can say "I did that." 

2. Making your bed slowly preps you for the day. It's like you're telling your body okay, time to face the day. You are putting away the dreams and subconscious processing and nightmares and rest. It is time to experience life. 

3. Making your bed reinforces self care habits. I am telling myself I am worthy of pretty things. I am worthy of this lovely and clean sight even though no one sees it but me. I am worth time and care.

4. It is easier to fall asleep at night. Crawling into a bed with a tight fitted sheet, smooth lines, and a design I like feels decadent. The sight of a made bed when I go into the bedroom makes me feel calm. It prompts me to put things in their places, and calms my mind.

5. The sight of an orderly bed makes me smile. It's such a small thing. But it's such a joy to behold. I'll take it. 

It's a very strange, small thing. But it works. I want to keep this habit up. I am in no way to becoming an OCD housekeeper or some magician of a DIY home owner or complete neat freak. But I want to progressively take steps that promote good health. My physical surroundings have a psychological effect. I want that effect to be good.

Once I've kept this up to the point where it truly becomes habit, I'll pick the next thing that will reinforce good health. Change that lasts is tiny. Incremental. Infused into everyday life.

I am worthy of a clean, made, pretty bed to lie on. Life is good and so am I.