ALSphere Foundation
“Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.”
This dictum formed the core of the formative years of our generation. Our parents followed the law of nature. We had a disciplined upbringing. No social media distraction to engage us, life was minimalistic. Lights switched off at 10 pm and wake up time at the latest to 6 am. The morning time was spent in physical activity and for revision during the examination. Summer/winter, rain/sunshine we would bath properly, sit down for breakfast and leave for our respective institutions jubilantly.
Since I have to commute to my workplace, rising early has become a necessity. Managing household chores and ensuring things ran well in my absence too, the extra morning hours are a boon. Many a time, my kids would rise with me to revise for a test, finish an assignment, or rehearse for a competition. With ample time on your hands, you don’t have to rush, and you can prioritise your tasks. Moreover, you reach your destination with a poised demeanour. You are focused, and you start your day with a positive mindset, with a sense of purpose.
Over the years this habit has become an integral part of my being. My body clock is attuned now. A regulated sleep regime helps reduce stress. Though awake, I linger a little sometimes in the cosy bed and wait for the alarm to ring on work days. I have the liberty to enjoy the luxury of lazing in the bed on a holiday, but more often than not I wake up at my usual time.
I relish this ‘me time’. With the family sleeping, I enjoy my company. The silence fills the mind with stability. I refrain from switching on the lights, make minimal noise, open the doors to let in fresh morning air, tune into a soothing hymn and sip some warm water. A leisurely stroll, refilling the bird feed, and caressing the house plants is so relaxing. A new leaf, a tiny bud, the stars fading, the lingering moon, the spread of light at the horizon and many such wonders of nature mesmerize me. I enjoy communion with nature, the serene environment devoid of distractions.
The social media bug has infected me too. I fall prey to the temptation of a quick check on the latest, scrolling and commenting on status updates, and sending birthday/anniversary greetings. If I am awaiting the publication of a newspaper article then checking the e-paper becomes my priority. The morning hour gives a greater life satisfaction.
As I fill my lungs to the core with the fresh morning air, I am all set to meet my commitments for the day with full energy levels. Each night, as I fold my hands in gratitude, I look forward to embracing the magic of the next morning.
“When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive, to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.” — Marcus Aurelius.
Suruchi Kalra Choudhary
