Mornings and I have had a complicated relationship, but lately I’ve been trying a slower, cozier start. In this guide, I share my real vs. ideal routine, why slowing down matters, and 5 simple rituals—from warm drinks to creative sparks—that make every morning feel like a gentle side quest.

Junk journaling is my favorite creative ritual—a cozy blend of memory keeping, sustainability, and play. Using scraps, ephemera, and everyday “trash,” I turn simple moments into meaningful keepsakes. Here’s why I love junk journaling and how it helps me slow down, create without rules, and see beauty in the little things.