Did You Make Your Bed?

Dear Pumpkin,

When I was a little girl, I had a cast iron bed. it was black, twin size, and when you laid on the mattress, you sunk in like lying on a cloud. Isn't it funny that after all these years, I still remember that bed?

When I talked to you on the phone tonight, I could hear the stress and anxiety in your voice. I'm so sorry that school has been tough and your job is not going well. These things suck and I'm also sorry that I can't tell you things will get better. I hope so but I don't know.

The bad news is that you will always have stress in your life. Yup, that sucks too but it's the truth. Oh, the source of your stress may change, but it will still always be there. Some days may be better than others--some days will have little stress and some days will have a lot of stress. Boy, I'm just cheering you up, ain't I?

So what is the good news? Well, the good news is that there is one thing you can control and it is how you manage your stress. Let me tell you one way....

MAKE YOUR BED

What? That sounds so bizarre but in reality, it is a constant stress reliever! No, it doesn't solve any problems, but making your bed makes you feel better! Why? Well, let me tell you...

It Makes You Feel In Control

By making the decision and doing the action of making your bed in the morning, you feel a sense of control in your environment.

It Is Visually Appealing

When you come home from work or school and you had a rough day, to see your beautiful bed made, it looks inviting. It looks welcoming.

It Makes You Care About Your Bed

Yes, we spend 1/3 of our life in a bed! We want cozy sheets, a warm comforter, a mattress that feels good. When you make your bed, evaluate your sheets. Do they need to be washed? Are they inviting--their color, their texture? Do you need new sheets? The same with your comforter--does it need to be washed or replaced? Is your mattress soft and comfortable? Is it the right size for you (twin, full, queen, king)? Do you have a bed frame or is your mattress on the floor? Your mattress should NOT be on the floor--that is not warm and inviting. Buy a cheap frame and headboard. Yes, it does make a difference!

Making your bed takes five minutes max. To be comforted by a made, beautiful bed every night is a joy. It sets you up for a good night's sleep. It says to you, "Don't worry about your day. The night is all mine and we are going to enjoy the rest, the solitude, and the coziness. Tomorrow will be another day and you will be well rested to face it. Enjoy tonight!"

So make your bed every morning. After all, what do you have to lose?

Love,

Memaw

P.S. Do you make your bed every morning? Why or why not? Tell me in the comments.

#stress reliever

#school stress

#work stress

#life advice