Many of the most accomplished people you know likely share the same healthy habit – they make their beds every morning. While it only takes a few minutes to fluff up your pillows and tug your bedding straight, you may justify leaving your bed unmade with the rationale that you don’t have time, or that it’s not important in the grand scheme of things. However, within the structure of a qualified addiction recovery program, one of your responsibilities will be to make your bed each day. Here are some benefits of developing a daily bed-making habit.
1. It Kicks off Your Day on the Right Foot
Tidying your bed is an instant way to make your whole bedroom look neat and clean, even if you’ve still got a few little everyday messes here and there. Making your bed soon after you get up can also give you a sense of accomplishment – think of it as the first task to cross off your to-do list each day.
2. It Might Improve Your Overall Productivity
The concept of “keystone habits” originates with Charles Duhigg, author of The Power of Habit. Duhigg identified these practices as those that have a ripple effect on other areas of your life. For example, making your bed daily positively impacts your overall well-being and motivation to get more done, which you can use to power through the rest of your chores.
3. It Boosts Your Mood by Helping You Relax
Given how much time the average person spends in bed, it makes sense you’d want your bedroom to be a soothing retreat from everyday stresses. When you return home after a long day, you want to step into a welcoming environment that feels like a sanctuary. Seeing a messy, disheveled bed will subconsciously add to your overall anxiety level, while a neatly made bed will look inviting and comforting.
Other Healthy Habits to Add to Your Recovery Routine
Once you’ve established a habit of making your bed every morning, what are some other ways to take your sobriety regimen to the next level?
- Volunteer in your community: Volunteerism can connect you to something larger than yourself. It can also be very gratifying to know that you are helping others in their time of need.
- Establish healthy sleep habits: You won’t reap the maximum benefits associated with making your bed without the sleep hygiene to back it up. Try going to bed and getting up at consistent times each day, even on weekends and holidays. If you have trouble falling asleep, implement a relaxing routine that incorporates gentle stretching, breathing exercises and warm herbal tea.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise is another keystone habit that affects your energy levels, eating habits, sleep patterns and mood. Establishing a consistent exercise routine will bring you multifaceted benefits, regardless of your favorite workout program.
What Will You Learn in Recovery?
Making your bed is only one small habit you can pick up in recovery that may follow you for the rest of your life. If you are ready to stop letting drugs and alcohol control your life and limit your future, our holistic rehab program can help you reclaim all facets of your health and well-being. When you’re ready to learn more about recovering in New Mexico, please reach out to us today.
