How about starting your day the way Jane Austen might recommend – properly and sensibly, with a spot of indulgence on the side. Maybe it’s soft scrambled eggs, buttered toast, and a perfectly brewed cup of coffee (because, honestly, it is a truth universally acknowledged that a morning without coffee is hardly worth acknowledging).
No one to share it with? Even better. This is your moment, and it’s all about you.
There’s something oddly indulgent about taking a solitary breakfast. It’s simple, quiet, and feels like a little luxury – especially on a day like Valentine’s Day when the world seems obsessed with pairings. But let me say it out loud. There’s nothing more satisfying than buttering your own toast at your own pace, sipping coffee without interruptions, and knowing this moment is yours.
I’ve always thought breakfast alone feels a bit like pressing “pause” on the chaos. No emails, no deadlines, no “good morning” texts (or lack thereof) to worry about. Just you, a plate of soft scrambled eggs, perfectly buttered toast, and a coffee brewed exactly how you like it. If that’s not self-love, I don’t know what is.
And the best part? You don’t have to wait for Valentine’s Day to treat yourself. Any day can be the right day to lean into a little extra care. Honestly, some mornings, all it takes is a warm breakfast in bed to remind yourself that, yes, you deserve this kind of ease.
So here’s my advice: grab your coziest blanket, set up a tray, and let breakfast be more than a meal – it’s a moment. For you, and only you.
In the Mood for Self-Love
Self-care doesn’t always have to mean bubble baths and face masks (though, if you ask me, those help too). Sometimes, it’s as simple as taking a slow, unrushed breakfast. It’s that precious time in the morning when the world is still quiet, and you can just be. No rush, no pressure—just the warmth of a cup of coffee and the comfort of soft scrambled eggs on buttered toast. It’s the perfect opportunity to reset, recharge, and give yourself the love you deserve.
As Virginia Woolf might put it, “A good breakfast is like a cup of tea for the soul,” offering that quiet, peaceful start to the day. Just like writers need their morning rituals to spark creativity, we all need little moments of mindfulness to set the tone for the day ahead. Whether it’s a few minutes of silence with your favorite brew or simply tasting the warmth of your food, it’s these moments that fuel us – body and mind – for whatever comes next.
Breakfast in Bed or a Proper Breakfast Table – What’s Right for You?
The beauty of breakfast is that it’s entirely yours to customize. Whether you prefer to enjoy it in bed, cozied up under your blankets, or set out a beautiful table complete with your favorite plates, the key is making it feel right for you. It’s about creating a moment that suits your mood – whether it’s lounging in the warmth of your bed, savoring each bite in peaceful solitude, or sitting at a table where you can feel a little more put-together.
Breakfast in bed can be a small act of indulgence, a chance to stay wrapped in comfort for a few more minutes while you enjoy your meal. The simplicity of it—a tray, your favorite mug, and a plate of something satisfying—feels like a little celebration of you.
But if a well-set table is more your style, that’s great too. The act of preparing a space, arranging the napkins just so, pouring your coffee into a favorite mug, and laying out your meal can make the morning feel special in a different way. It’s a chance to be present, to really see the food, and to take a mindful pause before diving into the day.
So, how do you know what’s right for you? It’s simple: listen to what your body and mind are craving. As Virginia Woolf might say, you need the space to “be yourself for a while”, which could mean curling up in bed or creating a serene breakfast nook. Some mornings, the quiet luxury of breakfast in bed will feel perfect. Other days, you might want the ritual of setting the table, lighting a candle, and taking your time. The key is in how it makes you feel—whether it’s relaxed, energized, or simply a moment to breathe before the day starts. Whatever you choose, make it yours.
How to Prepare the Perfect Breakfast Tray – A Simple Formula
Ready to treat yourself to a breakfast in bed? Let’s break it down into a simple formula—think of it as your own recipe for self-care. It’s not about perfection; it’s about creating a little moment of luxury for yourself.
Step 1: The Base (Something to Set it On)
Start with a tray that feels just right. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but it should be sturdy enough to hold all your breakfast essentials. I like to think of this tray as the foundation of your breakfast experience—like the solid ground underfoot in Wuthering Heights, where everything else can flow from it. A good base makes everything else feel a little more elevated.
Step 2: The Drink (A Sip of Comfort)
Next up, pour yourself something to sip. Coffee, tea, or juice—choose what feels best for you. If you’re going for a warm drink, a favorite mug will make it feel extra special. If it’s coffee, remember to make it strong—like a character in a Dickens novel, bold enough to wake you up and kickstart your day. And if you’re more of a tea person, think of it as a nod to the calm mornings in Emma, where tea becomes a moment of comfort and reflection.
Step 3: The Food (Simple and Satisfying)
Now, it’s time for the food. This is where you can keep things simple yet delicious. Soft scrambled eggs, buttered toast, and maybe a piece of fruit or a pastry if you’re feeling extra. The key is balance—something hearty and something light. Think of it as the perfect dialogue in a novel: not too heavy, not too light, but just the right rhythm. Like the meals in The Hobbit, where every bite, however small, is a reward for the adventure that lies ahead.
Step 4: The Extra Touch (A Little Something Special)
This is where you add your personal touch. Maybe a napkin folded neatly, or a sprig of greenery for color. It doesn’t have to be extravagant; it’s the small details that matter. It’s like how in Little Women, Meg March always takes time to make things feel beautiful, even in the most ordinary of moments. These little touches turn a simple breakfast into something extraordinary.
Step 5: The Presentation (The Finishing Touch)
Finally, make sure everything looks inviting. Arrange the items in a way that feels pleasing to your eyes. You want it to feel effortless—like an impromptu breakfast scene in one of those cozy cottage novels, where everything just fits perfectly. The key is making it feel like an experience, not just a meal.
Now you’re ready! With your tray prepared, you’ve got the perfect setting for a moment of self-care. Whether you’re lounging in bed or sitting by a window, this breakfast is all about you: simple, satisfying, and full of little details that turn it into a quiet moment of self-indulgence – because, yep, you’re worth it (I’ll admit, I stole that from L’Oréal).
How to Set the Perfect Breakfast Table (for One) – Step by Step
Setting a breakfast table for one doesn’t need to be complicated. In fact, it’s the perfect opportunity to slow down, be present, and create a little morning ritual just for you. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you set a table that makes your breakfast feel like a moment to savor.
Step 1: Choose Your Spot
Start by deciding where you want to enjoy your breakfast. It could be a cozy corner by the window, the kitchen table, or even outside if the weather’s nice. The key is finding a spot that feels serene and inviting, where you can truly enjoy your meal without distractions.
Step 2: Set the Table (Don’t Overcomplicate It)
Grab a clean tablecloth or placemat—something simple to ground the space. A plain white or neutral color keeps things feeling calm, but feel free to get a little creative if the mood strikes. Lay out a plate, a fork, and a knife, along with a napkin. You don’t need to go overboard with settings; the goal is to create a simple yet refined place to sit.
Step 3: The Glassware (Add a Touch of Elegance)
Place a glass of water (or juice, if you prefer) next to your plate. If you’re having coffee or tea, set your mug or cup on the table as well. A good cup of coffee can do wonders to elevate the experience. Think of it as your modern version of a Jane Austen character’s morning tea ritual, where every sip feels like a moment to cherish.
Step 4: Add a Personal Touch (Small but Meaningful)
This is where you can get creative. Maybe a fresh flower in a small vase, a cute little bowl of fruit, or a decorative salt shaker adds a touch of personality to your table. The idea here is to add a detail or two that makes the setting feel special without overwhelming it. It’s these small touches that make your breakfast feel intentional, like how Charles Dickens’ characters often found beauty in the simplest of things.
Step 5: Serve the Food (Presentation Matters)
Now, for the best part—your food. Arrange it thoughtfully on the plate, even if it’s just a couple of slices of buttered toast and some soft scrambled eggs. It’s not about making it Instagram-perfect, but about making it yours. Like in The Secret Garden, where the little moments of care and effort turn something ordinary into something extraordinary.
Step 6: Take a Moment to Appreciate
Before diving in, take a moment to appreciate your table. Notice the little touches you’ve added – the warmth of your food, the cozy ambiance of the setting. This is your time to reset, just like Miss Marple, who would surely approve of a breakfast table set with care and thoughtfulness. She will tell you that a well-laid table isn’t just about the food – it’s about creating a space that brings peace and sets the tone for the day ahead.
There’s no rush, just a quiet appreciation for the moment.
Step 7: Enjoy
Now, sit down and enjoy your breakfast. Savor each bite, take your time with your coffee, and let yourself feel the satisfaction of slowing down. Like the Crawley family at Downton Abbey, who know the importance of a well-enjoyed breakfast to start their day with ease, you’re setting the stage for a better, more mindful morning.
A Moment of Mindfulness
Breakfasting alone is more than just a quiet moment – it’s a much needed act of self-care. In the midst of busy mornings and constant distractions, taking this time to slow down and be present with your meal gives you the space to reset. It’s a moment to breathe, to focus on something simple, and to reconnect with yourself before the world demands your attention.
Just as Thoreau took time to pause and reflect in the simplicity of nature at Walden Pond, this breakfast is your opportunity to create a brief moment of peace, helping you start the day centered and calm.
You deserve this time, and it’s not selfish to take it. In fact, making space for moments like this – whether it’s a quiet breakfast or just a few minutes of quietness – is essential. It’s a small but important way to show up for yourself each day. As Oscar Wilde said, “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” So, make this a part of your routine – because when you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to take on the day ahead.
So, what’s your go-to breakfast for a solo morning of self-care? Whether it’s a warm bowl of oatmeal, buttery toast, or something else that brings you comfort, we’d love to hear about it. Share your favorite comfort food combos in the comments below – just like the characters in The Secret Garden found healing and connection through simple, nourishing acts, let’s inspire each other to make space for those mindful moments!
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