Monday, August 19, 2024

Instilling a Love of History in Your Children from a Historian's {& Graduated Homescholer's} Point of View

It is back to school time and for homeschooling moms that means putting the final touches on your curriculum for the year. Today, I’ve partnered with Amy Puetz from Golden Prairie Press to share our family's tips for instilling a love of history in your children!

woman working in forge
In May, Ceesa graduated with her bachelor's degree in history with a minor in Language Arts. It was an emotional day. We are so proud of her and what an honor to was to get to see her walk across that stage in her cap and gown to receive her diploma. 

woman graduating

I recently asked Ceesa what she would say contributed to her love of history. She mentioned 3 things that stood out to her. 

The first was the wonderful, high quality children's literature we read. She has always been an avid reader and has an extraordinary imagination. The historical readings were instrumental in sparking her love of history. Our list of favorite books are in 3 places: Books for Young Readers, Middlish Readers, and Teens and Young Adults. I'm constantly updating these lists as we find new treasures!

Young girl reading

Secondly, she says getting out to historic places was instrumental in her love of history. For as many years as our schedule and weather has allowed, we have taken a weekly field trip. During those trips, we've visited museums, historical sites, historic homes, and historic villages. For several years, she volunteered at a local historical society and for the last 4 years she has worked as an interpreter, weaver and blacksmith in a historic village. Being out there, immersed in history was vital.  

children at historic village

And finally, using history textbooks sparingly and instead using living, breathing curriculum that incorporated hands-on activities, music, books, games, recipes, and art. 

young girl cooking

One of the fantastic curriculums we discovered was from Golden Prairie Press. We highly recommend these curriculums. And the great news is from Monday, August 19th to Friday, August 23rd, 2024, you can get $10.00 off your purchase from Golden Prairie Press by using the code Bethany!

There are two complete history curriculum sets to choose between. Each curriculum is a thirty-week program designed for 1st through 6th graders. You have the option of a digital version in color or a print version of the curriculum in black and white. The curriculums include lessons, recommended literature, vocabulary, memory verses, extra resources (timelines, video recommendations, maps, historical art), hands-on activities (games, recipes, crafts, skits, experiments), and an audio file collection. Answer keys are provided and you only need basic supplies and the materials provided. 

Many years ago, we reviewed and used the Heroes and Heroines of the Past American History curriculum. The American History curriculum's lessons are split into two sections - one with basic info for younger students and another with more advanced details for older kids. You'll get to learn about the amazing people who shaped our country's past through stories that bring history to life. You can dive into history in a whole new way with this set recommended for grades 1-6.





You can see a sample here: The Period of Discovery





There is a sample section to check out: From Creation to Alexander the Great.

So that's it. Pretty Simple! Three steps to encourage a love of history: 
1) Read lots and lots of good quality historical books (fiction and non-fiction).
2) Get out there and be in the places where history happened.
3) Incorporate a curriculum that focuses on hands-on activities and sources.

Looking to instill a love of history in your children? We can recommend the Golden Prairie Press curriculum for that. And remember Monday, August 19th to Friday, August 23rd, 2024, you can get $10.00 off your purchase from Golden Prairie Press by using the code Bethany!

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Friday, May 10, 2024

A Family Vacation in Fort Walton Beach, Florida: Read our tips for the inside scoop!

Fort Walton Beach, located along the stunning Emerald Coast of Florida, offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and Southern hospitality. The coast gets its name from the amazing emerald color waters that are crystal clear. We visited just a few weeks ago and have some tips and recommendations for making the most of your visit to this picturesque coastal destination. Let's dive into the essentials to ensure a memorable experience in Fort Walton Beach.

fort walton beach inside scoop

What is the best time of year to visit Fort Walton Beach? 
If you like to bask in the sun without melting like a popsicle on a hot sidewalk, the best time to visit Fort Walton Beach is during the spring and fall. The weather is just right for beach bumming and outdoor adventures, with mild temperatures and fewer chances of rain ruining your sandcastle-building plans. If you don't mind the heat and wish to visit in the summer, be prepared for jostling for that perfect beach spot. If you can pick any time to go, we recommend April and early May for a more relaxed vibe and less competition for the best sunset-watching spot.

Family Vacation Fort Walton Beach

What should I pack for a trip to Fort Walton Beach?
Beach Essentials are crucial. Don't forget your swimsuit, beach towel, and flip-flops when heading to Fort Walton Beach. Sun protection products are a must. Shield yourself from the sun's rays with sunscreen, sunglasses (be sure to bring some for even your smallest kiddo), beach tent or umbrella, and a wide-brimmed hat. We found that we needed to reapply sunscreen liberally. Even then, we still missed spots and ended up burnt in strange places! For the kids, take lots of beach toys and a kite or two to fly on the beach. We had 4 with us for each kid, but found 2 would have sufficed because they wanted to take turns.

While the sun is hot, the breeze and evenings are still cool in the spring. Bring layers. I found myself putting a sweater on and taking it off again regularly depending on if the sun was out or if it was hiding behind the clouds.

Visit Fort Walton Beach

Where to Stay in Fort Walton Beach
Looking for a home away from home? There are so many hotel, condo and Airbnb options in Fort Walton to choose from. For the ultimate beach experience, consider staying in one of Fort Walton Beach’s beachfront resorts or hotels. Waking up to the sound of crashing waves and panoramic ocean views? Yes, please. We choose to go inland a bit and rented a vacation home on Airbnb during our stay in Fort Walton Beach. It was less than a year old, so all of the amenities were nearly new. It looked just like the pictures and was very lovely. We were right around the corner from Walmart and depending on traffic a 15–25 minute drive to the beach. It was a great location and mostly quiet. We highly recommend staying here and when we make it back to Fort Walton Beach, we will stay there again.

How to get around in Fort Walton Beach?
We found that driving our car was the best way to get around for our family in Fort Walton Beach. Since we weren't right on the beach, we needed wheels for transport. If you are flying in and staying on the beach and plan to do activities right by wherever you are renting, check out a shuttle services from the airport. Renting a bike or walking would be ideal for you while there. If you are flying and want to get around to places in addition to the beach, you may want to rent a car. 

waves at Fort Walton Beach


Where to eat in Fort Walton Beach?
When in Fort Walton Beach, seafood is a must-try! Indulge in fresh-from-the-sea delicacies at local seafood restaurants, where the shrimp is so good it’ll make you question why you ever ate frozen shrimp cocktail. Beyond the seafood scene, Fort Walton Beach boasts a diverse culinary landscape. Explore local cuisine and foodie hotspots to tantalize your taste buds with flavors that will have you planning your next meal before you’ve even finished your current one. There are waterfront dining options and rooftop restaurants for dining with a view. We opted to do some shopping at the grocery store and cook our meals at our Airbnb. (If your AIP, see how to take a 5-day vacation and stick to AIP elimination phase.)

What are some popular outdoor activities and must-visit attractions to enjoy in Fort Walton Beach?
Fort Walton Beach offers plenty of family-friendly attractions, from amusement parks to wildlife encounters that will keep the little ones entertained and create memories that will have them begging for a return trip. On sunny days, the water is crystal clear and a beautiful emerald green to aqua blue and on foggy, cloudy days a tempestuous gray. Every mood of the Emerald Coast is quite a sight to behold.

Whether you’re a beach lounger or a wave rider, Fort Walton Beach has you covered. Dive into the crystal-clear waters for snorkeling adventures or simply soak up some vitamin D on the soft, cool sands. Be sure to follow the beach rules, as there are some parts of the beach you aren't allowed to visit because of the military base. 

Fort Walton Beach emerald water

Beach access is free and parking is available at the various parks or in the numbered beach lots. We visited John Beasley Park, which was nice. But we preferred the numbered access points. At the beach, we did some swimming, walked along the shore, played football, and flew kites. There is actually a kite festival in April. 

Flying kites at Fort Walton Beach

There are lots of opportunities for water sports and adventures as well. You can rent boats, go jet skiing, paddleboarding, kiteboarding, parasailing, kayaking, or take a guided tour or a fishing charter. 

We rented a pontoon boat (from Crab Island Watersports-Our pontoon was practically new and in excellent condition!) and headed out to Crab Island, a submerged sandbar, and the Choctawhatchee Bay for an all-day boating adventure. Dolphins swam alongside the boat as we drove under the Destin Bridge into Destin Harbor. Crab Island is a little oasis all to itself. The later in spring the warmer the water. We all got in the water at some point, but it was still icy for early spring. Just be sure you don't go out to the East Pass to the Gulf. It isn't safe there and you aren't permitted to boat that way. There are police boats that patrol the area to be sure all are maintaining safety.

Pontoon ride to Crab Island

If you would like to fish with a little more solidity under your feet, you can fish from the Island Pier for a fee of $5-$8 (which includes the license) or like us pay for a walking pass ($2) and observe the fishing. We could see schools of fish from the pier and jellyfish swimming below the water. There was a crane standing guard on the pier as well.

Crane on the Island pier at Fort Walton Beach

Next up, you can unleash your inner history nerd at Fort Walton Beach’s historical sites and museums. From ancient Native American artifacts to military history, there’s something for every history buff to geek out over.

One of the places, we visited was the Indian Temple Mound Museum. In addition to the museum, there are several small historical buildings here including the Fort Walton Temple Mound to visit. You'll find the Camp Walton Schoolhouse, Garnier Post Office Museum, and Civil War Exhibits. The museum price covers all of the buildings. It's $3-5 per ticket and we were able to come back as often as we wanted on our trip with our receipt. Hours vary. We called ahead to confirm when they would be open. They are also in the process of building a second floor with pirate history. Can't wait to see what it will hold!

Historical sites at Fort Walton Beach

Another museum site we visited was the Air Force Armament Museum. Admission to enter is free. There are exhibits inside and outside. They are open daily from 9:30-5:00. The museum has lots of aircraft and munitions displays. It is actually outside of Fort Walton (about a 15-minute drive), but close enough that we decided to make the trip. 

Air Force Armament Museum

We took a stroll around the Women Veterans Monuments at Veterans Park close to Marler Park. (Park your vehicle behind the Fort Walton-Destin Convention Center. The path is on the left.)

There are Hiking and Nature Trails for those craving a more grounded adventure. You can check out Fort Walton Beach's scenic hiking trails. Explore the beauty of the area's nature reserves and discover hidden gems along the way.

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park was another stop we made. There were lots of presentations and chats to check out as well as exhibits. The chats are like a lot of the zoo talks we've attended. The presentations are more like shows with tricks. We recommend hitting as many as you are able as time allows. We watched a harbor seal presentation and a dolphin presentation. We listened to a few chats on penguins, otters, sharks, and snakes. 

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park

For a typical vacation activity, you can also try your hand at a little putt-putt. We tried one of the courses. Everyone got at least one hole-in-one, a first-time record for us. We don't usually do the putt-putt and ice cream thing, but thought we'd go for it on this trip with a little bit of extra time. 

Mini-golf hole

Where can I shop in Fort Walton Beach?
There are local markets and boutiques for unique souvenirs and gifts. You can support local artisans and bring a piece of Fort Walton Beach back home with you. We didn't do much shopping on our trip this time. We wanted to soak up as much sun as we could and then head back to the airbnb for some relaxation.

As you plan your visit to Fort Walton Beach, keep these tips in mind to enhance your vacation experience and create lasting memories in this beautiful coastal paradise. Whether you're lounging on the beach, exploring historical sites, or savoring fresh seafood, Fort Walton Beach offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for every type of traveler. So pack your bags, soak up the sun, and immerse yourself in the charm of Fort Walton Beach – a destination that truly captures the essence of Florida's Gulf Coast.

Sunset at Fort Walton Beach

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Wednesday, May 01, 2024

What to see and do on Tybee Island: Our Top Tips for a Fun-Filled Family Vacation

Tybee Island, located just off the coast of Savannah, Georgia, is a charming barrier island known for its pristine sandy beaches, historic sites, and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach getaway, outdoor adventures, or a taste of local culture, we recommend visiting Tybee Island. This barrier island has something for everyone. Tybee Island promises a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. Check out our recommendations for visiting Tybee Island and making the most out of your experience. 

Tybee Island Pictures

Practical Tips for Visiting Tybee Island, Georgia

Before you head out, here are some practical tips to help you make the most out of your visit. As you plan your trip to Tybee Island, be sure to consider the best time to visit for your tastes to make the most of your experience. The spring and fall months offer the most mild and pleasant temperatures in the 70's. Hurricane season starts around August and peaks in September and October. It rains the most in the summer months. And summers are hot! Know what the temperatures and weather patterns are like in the season you wish to visit Tybee Island so you can be prepared!

We visited in July, so our experience with the weather was hot, hot, hot. Since we were there in the heart of summer, we also learned summer equals bugs! Don't forget to pack sunscreen and bug spray, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated under the Tybee Island sun. Every time we took a step out the door, we applied bug spray and if we were going to be in the mid-day or afternoon sun, the sunscreen was added liberally. It really only rained twice during our stay, but it really down poured for an hour or two. Then all was clear again.

Whatever you prefer, a bustling summer atmosphere or a quieter off-season getaway, there are accommodation options on Tybee Island to suit every traveler's needs. Whether you're looking for a luxurious beachfront condo, a relaxing home or, like us, a restful campground, you'll find it on Tybee Island. There are so many options for finding the perfect place to rest and recharge during your stay. 

We took the camper with us and stayed at River's End Campground. This campground is ideally located with flat sites. We had a premium site which was back away from the road. All of the sites were packed gravel with a few trees (minimal shade). There's a heated pool and it was walking distance to a beach on the north side of the island with the fewest people. A couple weekday evenings, we had the beach all to ourselves. 

If you're bringing your own vehicle, getting to Tybee Island is as easy as following your GPS and crossing a few bridges. Once you're there, you'll find parking, with metered spaces, permit pass spots, and free lots available. There are several places with golfcart rentals that have permits to park in the permitted areas as an option as well. During the weekday, parking isn't much of a problem. You'll just need a little patience for finding a great spot. However, weekend parking can become much more difficult to find. Once you are settled into the area of the island you are staying in, a bicycle ride around the island would afford an easy way to get from place to place without worrying about parking. Also, if you stay at the campground, check with them about purchasing a parking permit. Sometimes they have them available.

We rented a golf cart for part of our stay. Be advised that there are highways (like HWY 80) that golfcarts are not permitted on. We recommend taking a picture of a map (one was hanging on the wall at the golfcart rental store we used) so that you can refer to it while planning your route. And be sure to ask for clarification about where you can cross and which roads not to take the golfcart out on. Also, the island is moving toward electric powered golf carts, so if you have the option between electric and gas, go with electric.

Now let's talk about the Tybee Island Beaches!

With miles of sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, Tybee Island is a beach lover's paradise. Whether you're into swimming, sunbathing, shoreline walks, or surfing, there's something for everyone. On the east side of the island, you'll find the pier and public beach access area. This is the most packed part of the island. Get here early to find a parking spot.

Tybee Island Pier

The north side of the island has the least crowds and with a little walking you can find a more private area. This is where we spent most of our beach evenings. 

Tybee Island beach

The beaches offer lots of glimpses of wildlife. There are sea turtles nesting and hatching, dolphins playing just offshore, starfish, lots of crabs scurrying around, and fish of course. If you are into collecting, we found lots of shells, and I even found a shark tooth!

History and Culture of Tybee Island

Steeped in history, Tybee Island has seen its fair share of pirates, soldiers, and beach-loving tourists over the years. From its iconic Tybee Island Lighthouse Museum with panoramic views to its charming beach cottages and old Fort Screven, the island's culture reflects a unique blend of past and present, making it a treasure trove of stories waiting to be discovered.

The Tybee Island Lighthouse Museum stands as a beacon of history and maritime heritage, guiding ships along the Georgia coast for over two centuries. From its humble origins to its enduring presence today, this iconic structure has witnessed a myriad of events and transformations that reflect the evolution of navigation and preservation efforts. The lighthouse was constructed in 1736, making it one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. Designed in the classic colonial style, the lighthouse stands at 154 feet tall and has a distinct octagonal shape. There is a small parking lot that you may park in for free with your ticket for visiting the lighthouse and museum. On the grounds are buildings with information and a movie. You are permitted to walk the grounds and go up and out on the walkway of the lighthouse. The views from here are splendid.

Tybee Island lighthouse

Another historic attraction on Tybee Island is Fort Screven. Built in the late 19th century as a response to the Spanish-American War, this historic fortress boasts a rich military history and stunning architecture. You can take a leisurely stroll through the fort or admire the views from atop its roof. The ticket for the fort is included with your lighthouse admission. For our family, this wasn't really something that we'd say is a must see, but there was lots of historical information inside. The outside was more impressive than the inside (it was rather dank and damp).

Fort Screvens, Tybee Island

I would be remiss in not mentioning that just off the island onto its own island is Fort Pulaski. Fort Pulaski holds a significant place in American history for its role in the Civil War. This imposing brick fortress, named after Revolutionary War hero Casimir Pulaski, stands as a testament to military engineering and strategic warfare. From the siege and battle that tested its defenses to the ongoing preservation efforts that ensure its legacy endures, Fort Pulaski remains a compelling destination. There was so much to see here. We were especially excited about the fig trees, planted during the fort's encampment (You are allowed to pick ripe figs from it, which are delicious.) Another treat was finding the soldier graffiti still seen on the walls. The boys were also delighted to see fish jumping over the water in the moat. And Fort Pulaski has a junior ranger program, so the boys earned badges here.
Fort Pulaski, Georgia

Unique Water Activities on Tybee Island

Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, or take a boat tour  - the possibilities are endless! There are so many options. You can even take surf lessons. An especially unique experience is one of the boat tours available takes you to an island to look for shark teeth fossils. 

We took a kayak tour out to see the Cockspur Island Lighthouse, built in 1855 to guide ships safely through the winding waters of the Savannah River, this little lighthouse has certainly seen its fair share of action over the years from Civil War battles to hurricanes. No one is permitted on the island, but you can paddle up to it. Be sure to have strong kayakers as the wind can pick up and the water gets choppy very fast. I struggled to move very fast as the water got more difficult to navigate. Dolphin sightings are very common on kayak and boat tours. We didn't see any up close, but there were several out a bit farther.

Conservation and Nature 

Explore Tybee Island's natural beauty in a sustainable way by opting for eco-friendly activities and tours. Kayak through the marshes, go birdwatching to spot local species, bike and explore the quiet marshes, join a guided nature walk, participating in beach clean-ups, or make your way at low tide to a Tybee Beach Ecology Tour.

Another possibility is visiting the Tybee Island Marine Science Center. This is a small center, but there's interesting information about sea turtles and is a memorable stop for us. There was a fossil room, interactive tanks, and a beautiful view. 

Sea Turtle from Tybee Island Science Center

Top Restaurants and Eateries in Tybee Island

When it comes to dining on Tybee Island, you're in for a treat. From fresh seafood shacks to cozy cafes, there's a culinary experience for every taste bud. If you don't have any special dietary restrictions, don't leave Tybee Island without trying some of the local specialties. Sink your teeth into a classic Low Country Boil, savor the fresh flavors of shrimp and grits, or indulge in a slice of key lime pie for a sweet Southern finish to your meal.

Some top restaurant recommendations include The Crab Shack for a casual seafood feast with a deep south feel and A-J's Dockside Restaurant for waterfront dining with a view. We chose to eat at Pier 16 on the top deck one evening and for our other meals we made a run to the local grocery and ate at the campsite.  

Hit the Unique Shops
Tybee Island shopping is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures. From eclectic boutique shops to charming souvenir stores, this quirky island offers a plethora of unique finds that are sure to delight any shopper's heart. Whether you're searching for handmade jewelry, funky home decor, or locally crafted art pieces, Tybee Island has it all. 

On the north side of the island, you can stroll along the shopping shanties at 1213 HWY 80. These shops offer a unique experience and just walking along the decks and porches is fun and gives you a tropical feel. Just a few doors down is Seaside Sisters and there is a small, local artisan gallery, Tybee Cottage Art Gallery, next door with some really beautiful pieces. Every store feels like a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

Ship photo booth

On the east side of the island, you'll find bustling Tybrisa Street lined with colorful storefronts and friendly vendors. You'll soon find yourself getting lost in a sea of whimsical trinkets and must-have souvenirs. For a real ocean themed items, we loved the Seagulls Outdoors shop for beach themed decor. And they have the best band aids!

Shells playing cards

A day on Tybee Island
Our typical schedule on Tybee Island looked like this: After breakfast, head out and explore one of the historical sites or nature stops, shop, or go to another attraction on the island or in Savannah. Break for lunch. Take a ride on the golf cart or relax in the air conditioning. Get our swimsuits on and have dinner. Then head to the beach. After the beach, rinse off, have dessert, and finish the night in the pool. Then we put that on repeat for 5 days.

Tybee Island beach at sunset

Next time we make it to Tybee Island, we plan to do one of the Tybee Beach Ecology Tours, take a tour out to hunt for shark teeth fossils, participate in one of the Tybee Island Marine Science Center programs, and rent a jet ski to zoom around out on the water!

As you prepare to depart for your sun-soaked vacation on this coastal paradise, keep these tips in mind for a great family vacation. Enjoy the memories you'll make and the experiences you'll enjoy listening to the sound of waves crashing on the beach, the taste of freshly caught seafood, or the warmth of the sun on your skin, Tybee Island leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.  

alligator at Tybee Island Science Center

Have you been to Tybee Island? What were the highlights for you?

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Friday, March 22, 2024

Make your Bed! The Therapeutic Benefits for Autoimmune Diseases

Make your Bed!

You are probably wondering: Can making my bed really have a significant impact on my autoimmune condition? And will bed-making help with all types of autoimmune diseases? The short answer is, "Yes!" Read on to find out why it helps.

Autoimmune diseases occur when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage to organs and tissues. With over 80 different types of autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto's, lupus, and multiple sclerosis, these diseases can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. Living with an autoimmune disease can present various challenges in daily life. Symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and inflammation can impact one's ability to carry out routine tasks and lead to a decreased quality of life. Managing these conditions often requires a combination of medication, lifestyle adjustments, and self-care strategies.

Made bed

Impact of Sleep on Autoimmune Diseases 

Research has shown a strong link between sleep and autoimmune diseases. Lack of quality sleep can trigger inflammatory responses in the body, exacerbate symptoms, and contribute to disease progression. Prioritizing good sleep hygiene is essential for managing autoimmune conditions.

Quality sleep plays a crucial role in managing autoimmune disease symptoms. Adequate rest helps support the immune system, reduces inflammation, and promotes overall well-being. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and creating a restful sleep environment are important steps in improving symptom management.

Making your bed each day can contribute to creating a calming and organized sleeping environment. A tidy bed can signal to your brain that it's time to wind down and promote a sense of tranquility, which is beneficial for individuals managing autoimmune conditions.

The simple act of making your bed can have therapeutic effects on stress levels. Engaging in this routine can instill a sense of accomplishment, order, and control, which may help reduce stress and anxiety levels. Lowering stress is crucial for managing autoimmune conditions as stress can exacerbate symptoms. The act of making your bed and maintaining an organized sleeping space can have psychological benefits. Order and organization in your surroundings can provide a sense of stability, control, and comfort, all of which are important for mental health and overall well-being. Embracing a tidy sleeping environment can support individuals in coping with the challenges of autoimmune diseases.

Why make my bed?

My Experience with Making my Bed

COVID quarantine was a very new experience for everyone. Trying to think of things to keep us occupied at home, I began a list of things we could be doing. I started by looking for productive ways to spend the hours stretched before us. Of course, there was schoolwork and ministry work to keep up on, but there was still so much time leftover, and the weather wasn't exactly comfortable for being outside in the beginning of quarantine. So, we did puzzles, watched zoo cams, made movies, took pictures dressed up like famous paintings, did scavenger hunts, learned to play whist, bundled up for hikes, gardened, made playlists, and listened to inspirational talks. One of those talks I listened to was the Make your Bed Speech.


With everyone in the house together, every minute of the day. I really needed one clean, inviting space that was my own. And my bedroom became that space. Once I began making my bed, I found that walking into the room automatically relieved tension and stress. I was never a bed maker before COVID, but now I'm sold. I make my bed every day now. It is wonderful to slip into smooth feeling sheets every night.

Practical Tips for Establishing a Bed-Making Routine

Let's face it, convincing yourself to make your bed when you could just as easily leave it messy can be a challenge. So here are some tips to get you on your way!

  1. Decide at what part of your day you can devote a few minutes to making your bed.  
  2. When it comes to bed-making, efficiency is key. Start by straightening out your sheets and fluffing your pillows. 
  3. Use the "hospital or military corners" technique for a crisp look. Remember, it doesn't have to be perfect, just enough to create a sense of order.
  4. Think of it as a self-care ritual. 
  5. Take a moment to appreciate the act of creating a tidy space for yourself. It sets a positive tone for the day ahead.



In the world of autoimmune diseases where so much can feel out of control, making your bed is a small task that can give you a sense of accomplishment. It's a reminder that you have the power to create order in your immediate environment.

While it may seem like a simple and even unnecessary act, studies have shown that maintaining a clean and organized space can positively affect overall health, including autoimmune conditions. Making your bed could be a small yet impactful step in managing your health. Making your bed may seem like a mundane task, but it can offer therapeutic benefits for those managing autoimmune conditions. Incorporating this simple habit into your daily routine can promote a sense of control and well-being.

simple task of making the bed

As part of your holistic approach to managing autoimmune disease, consider adding bed-making to your self-care toolkit. It's a low-cost, low-effort strategy that can contribute to a more positive mindset and overall wellness. So go ahead, tuck in those sheets and fluff those pillows – your health might thank you for it!

What unique ways have you discovered to improve your autoimmune condition?

Disclaimer: The purpose of this post is not to offer medical advice. I am not in the medical field. My purpose is to share what decisions I’ve made in an attempt to improve my health and try to put my autoimmune disease into remission. Remember everyone’s body reacts differently to foods and supplements and you have to make the decisions that are best for you. Consult a trusted practitioner for medical advice. Our resource page details the books, articles, journals, and websites we've researched to put together our autoimmune articles. You can access our Autoimmune Research Resources by clicking.  

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