When's your favorite time, the best part of your day? When so many of us live full-on, busy lives, reaching our favorite, the best part of the day can be akin to arriving at an oasis in the middle of the desert. It causes us to smile, breathe deeply, and let go of all the stresses of the day.
At the start of lockdown, I began taking a daily walk along the towpath near where I live. At first, it was a sort of personal diary, taking photographs of the sunrise, beautiful scenery, the birds, wildflowers, and then posting them onto social media. Over the weeks it's become a treasured, best part of the day for me. And others seem to enjoy it too.
Going out early morning means there are usually very few walkers, runners and cyclists around. It's lovely to sometimes exchange pleasantries with familiar faces or at other times have the towpath all to myself. And an early walk means I can manage the timing to avoid really wet weather, but also fit in with the other demands in my life. My walk is the motivation to get up and have some personal time before I start the day well.
- Early risers often enthuse about going to bed early so they can get up and have time to meditate or get some fresh air before they start the day properly. For them, early mornings are the best time of the day. An early morning run, bike ride or visit to the gym gets their circulation moving, sets them up for the day and gives them personal time in order to start the day in a positive way.
- Equally, breaks throughout the day can be special times, providing the incentive to work and earn that reward. Going outside for a drink, maybe catchup with friends or colleagues can give a welcome interlude during the day. It's good to be able to look forward to some time when you're able to reconnect with others or enjoy some quiet me-time.
- In the midst of a difficult, complex or stressful time knowing you're due a breather can be a relief, provide the respite and be the best part of the day. At those times you're able to pause, relax, ground yourself, maybe with some food or drink, or take a walk outside. That cup of tea, piece of fruit, few minutes with your eyes closed as you listen to music could offer an opportunity to reflect, clear your mind and then return feeling refreshed, stronger and ready to resume what you've set out to do.
- Is lunch looked forward to as a meaningful half-day marker, a time to sit, take a proper break, and eat something tasty and nutritious? Maybe include time to read, have a short walk, and enjoy doing something for yourself rather than hardly pausing as you race around town shopping and doing errands.
- For others, early evening is the best part of their day. There's the satisfaction of knowing that the day's tasks are finished for now. The journey home can be used as an opportunity to wind down, reflect on the evening ahead, and look forward to seeing family, friends or maybe simply having relaxing alone time.
- Spending evenings with the children, being there for bathtime or reading them a bedtime story is often precious much treasured time. The evening meal, cooking, walking the dog and feeling relaxed and satisfied as a busy day draws to a close is easily the best part of the day for many. All contributing to an 'end of day gathering' experience.
- Busy people often relax and enjoy the time when their children are tucked up in bed when they're able to settle down with a drink, TV or have downtime with their partner or friends. The prospect of an evening drink, conversation, leisurely bath as they close the door, kick off their shoes, and wind down is understandably the best part of their day.
For many of us, there will be elements of each of these different times that intermittently cause us to relax, smile, and feel that life is good. They can easily contribute to being viewed as the best part of the day. Which is your favorite?
