12-17-2024 11:47am

The Peace and Calm of the Morning

Christine Larkin Editor

SKYLARK'S ARTICLE OF THE WEEK - THE PEACE AND CALM OF THE MORNING

As we head into winter this Saturday, I'm reminded of the peace and calm of the season. And I love the peace and calm of the morning. Everything seems to quiet down as the buzz of the day begins. I love this time of day.

Early this past Saturday morning, I gazed out of my living room window on my way to the kitchen, and through the corner of my eye, I caught a glimpse of the moonrise. I went to my window and took a picture with my iPhone. The moon sets fast like the sun, so you have to grab the moment while you can. The picture above doesn't do it justice as most photographs can't capture the majesty of nature that we see with our own eyes. It caught me by surprise, and I was in awe. I said to myself, "This is all I need, this moment."

The early morning, before the sun is up, is one of my very favorite times of the day. I have many favorite times of the day, but the peace and calm of the morning is special. The first thing I do is make a pot of coffee. I have a percolator that brews on top of the stove. It take about 10 minutes, and it makes the best cup of coffee, the old-fashioned way. The first modern percolator incorporating the rising of boiling water through a tube to form a continuous cycle and capable of being heated on a kitchen stove was invented in 1819 by the Parisian tinsmith Joseph-Henry-Marie Laurens. Gotta love the French. Le cafe est delicieux.

The morning, especially the early hours, can significantly impact our physical and mental well-being, setting the tone for the rest of the day. Physically, the morning is a time for rejuvenation:

Sleep restoration: During sleep, our bodies repair and restore themselves. We wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day's challenges.
Hormonal balance: Our hormones are naturally optimized for physical and mental productivity in the morning, making us feel alert and energetic.
Improved mood: Stepping outside and enjoying fresh air and sunlight can boost our mood and reduce stress, thanks to the release of endorphins.
Enhanced physical activity: Morning exercise, like a brisk walk or jog, can improve cardiovascular health, increase energy levels, and boost mood.

Mentally, the morning offers a fresh start and a chance to set intentions:

Brainpower boost: Sleep helps clear out toxins and improve cognitive function, making us sharper and more focused in the morning.
Increased willpower: Our willpower reserves are replenished after a good night's sleep, allowing us to tackle challenging tasks with greater determination.
Reduced stress: The morning's calm can help us to manage stress and anxiety before the demands of the day begin.
Enhanced creativity: Studies show that early morning hours can be conducive to creative thinking and problem-solving.

Practical tips for maximizing the benefits of the morning:

Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep to ensure optimal physical and mental performance.
Incorporate a morning routine: Include activities that promote well-being, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature.
Plan your day: Use the morning to reflect on your goals and plan how you will achieve them.
Hydrate: Drink water first thing in the morning to rehydrate your body and kickstart your metabolism.
Eat a healthy breakfast: Fuel your body with a nutritious breakfast to support energy levels and focus.

When I was growing up, breakfast was a big deal, especially on Sunday. It was a ritual. My Dad would go to the bakery for fresh rolls, and my Mom would make a batch of eggs and bacon. This was a time of coming together to check in, to tell each other about our week, or what we were going to do that day. We usually had company for dinner.

I miss that Sunday morning ritual, but I have one of my own now. I go to mass and usually take a ride afterwards. Sundays are for relaxing. There's less traffic, and families get to spend quality time with each other. We are all so busy now. Make sure to take some time each morning to pause and reflect before you start your day. Set an intention and watch it come into play.

Peace and Love,

Skylark

At 60 and Beyond, the morning can be the best time of day as we wake to a new start.

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SKYLARK'S PICK OF THE WEEK

The Interplay Jazz Orchestra is performing this weekend at The Boulton Center in Bay Shore. They are a dynamic 17-member big band based on Long Island, New York. Co-directed by trombonist Joe Devassy and trumpeter Gary Henderson, the orchestra is known for its original compositions and arrangements crafted by its talented members.

The Big Band Holiday Concert with The Interplay Jazz Orchestra is a fantastic way to celebrate the season! These concerts feature a mix of classic holiday tunes, original pieces, and jazz standards, all arranged in the big band style. You can expect to hear festive favorites like “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night,” and “Winter Wonderland,” all with a jazzy twist.

The orchestra’s talented musicians bring a lively and joyful energy to their performances, making it a memorable experience for audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a long-time jazz enthusiast or just looking for a fun holiday event, their concert is sure to get you into the holiday spirit!

This diverse ensemble allows the orchestra to create a full, vibrant sound that captures the essence of jazz. This band features a rich array of big band instruments. Here’s a breakdown of the instruments and some of the musicians who play them:

Saxophones:
Alto Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone, Flute: James Miceli, Chris Donohue
Tenor Saxophone: John Marshall, Alejandro Aviles
Baritone Saxophone: Chris Scarnato

Trumpets:
Michael Rubenstein, Damien Pacheco, Baron Lewis, Gary Henderson

Trombones:
Brent Chiarello, Joey Devassy, Eric Gottesman

Rhythm Section:
Piano: Jay Orig
Bass: Dave Lobenstein
Drums: Cameron Escovedo

SKYLARK'S NEWS HIGHLIGHT OF THE WEEK

Rather than post a news highlight from one of the many print and social media platforms, going forward, I'm going to post a news item from my life. This week's news is that my brother, Kevin, is coming home from Sunrise Manor, a nursing and rehab facility, where he's been for three months recovering from a broken foot. My family and I are delighted. What a great Christmas present. Merry Christmas to all, and to all, a good night!

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SKYLARK'S INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE OF THE WEEK

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SKYLARK'S PRAYER OF THE WEEK

Dear God,

When we awake each morning, all glory is yours. Amen.

SKYLARK'S QUESTION OF THE WEEK

What is your morning ritual?

Please put your answer in the Reply bubble at the bottom of this article next to the Heart. I'd love to hear from you. Thank you.

SKYLARK'S SONG OF THE WEEK - BEAUTIFUL by CAROL KING

LYRICS

You've got to get up every morning
With a smile on your face
And show the world all the love in your heart
Then people gonna treat you better
You're gonna find, yes you will
That you're beautiful, as you feel

Waiting at the station with a workday wind a-blowing
I've got nothing to do but watch the passers-by
Mirrored in their faces I see frustration growing
And they don't see it showing, why do I?

I have often asked myself the reason for the sadness
In a world where tears are just a lullaby
If there's any answer, maybe love can end the madness
Maybe not, oh, but we can only try

ABOUT MY BRAND, SKYLARK LIVE -60 AND BEYOND WITH SKYLARK

My Brand - Skylark Live - 60 and Beyond with Skylark was born out of my turning 60 and noticing a profound shift in this age. I wanted to talk about it and share what I was experiencing with the hope of helping other women as well. My brand consists of a weekly newsletter and a monthly vlog designed to motivate and inspire women over 60 to thrive in mature ageing through knowledge and self-awareness. One day, I'd like to conduct in-person conversations called The Skylark Sessions. These can be held in someone’s home or at a local library or senior center. Stay tuned.

My Weekly Newsletter - My weekly newsletter, Skylark Live Town News, features articles about human interest, nature, general observations, inspiration, motivation, music, places I've been to, and ideas I want to explore. I represent Bay Shore and towns beyond. There is also a calendar of events. I throw in Italian words, too, because I love the language and all things Italian. Bella Italia! As a paying subscriber, you will receive my newsletter each Wednesday morning in your email. That gives you a head's up. You can also advertise your business or event on my newsletter. Just click this link to subscribe: For updates, subscribe to our free newsletter!

My Monthly Vlog - My first Monday-of-the month vlog is a recap of the articles I've written in my newsletter throughout the previous month. Then, I introduce a unique topic for the current month's vlog. My vlog is recorded and posted on my YouTube channel as well as on my Patreon account and my social media sites. Just click my YouTube channel link below to subscribe: www.youtube.com/@christineskylark

WHERE TO SUPPORT AND FOLLOW ME

Support me on Patreon - This is where you can support my brand for just $5 a month. This enables me to carve out time to write my newsletters, create my vlogs and to expand my brand. Just click the link below: www.patreon.com/SkylarkLive

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Thank you for your love and support! Grazie per il vostro amore e sostegno!