How I Romanticize My Nursing Life

Because healing gets to be beautiful, too.

Can we be honest for a second?

Sometimes nursing feels… soo not cute.

Long hours, messy buns, bright lights, charting that never ends, and coffee that goes cold before you even take a sip.

But you know what I decided?

I deserve to feel romantic about my life, even in scrubs. I will spend most of my days working so I might as well make it beautiful.

Joy is my medicine.

And if I’m going to give so much of my energy, I might as well sprinkle it with a little magic.

I don’t just “get ready for work”

I curate my mornings.

Cue the music on my yin / yang design Bluetooth speaker.

Light the candle. Do the stretch. Whisper an affirmation while I am brushing my hair.

Looking into my own eyes and saying I love you as I wash my face with cool water.

“I am a vessel of calm. I give from a nourished place. My energy is protected and precious.”

My mornings begin like a love letter to myself.

Slow sips from my pink mug, stamped “The Queen’s Mug,” has held space for my dreams since 2010.

Even my coffee is intentional.

It’s not just a routine, it’s a love note full of devotion to my well being.

These aren’t just scrubs. They are armor made of grace. They are woven with strength and Gods promises to me.

I bring serenity to my scrubs.

I am clothed not just in fabric, but in faith.

A dainty gold chain or my cowry shell necklace depending on my mood.

Lip balm that smells like juicy watermelon. Edges laid. Baby hairs kissed into place.

You better believe my badge reel is cute.

Because I am not just clocking in, I am showing up with integrity and intention for my life and my day.

A nurse. A nurturer. A radiant woman.

A walking affirmation.

Even in the chaos, I find the joy.

I find my flow.

• Taking three deep breaths in the med room (and maybe a few slow shoulder rolls)

• Smiling at babies or making silly jokes.

• Writing a sticky note with a loving reminder for my future self

• Sipping water with lemon and cucumbers like I am on a spa break.

• Playing affirmations on my AirPods for a 2-minute retreat when I go for a break.

Because joy is always available, even if just in little sips.

When I clock out, I don’t drag myself home like a zombie. I float there like a sea goddess who just saved lives.

• I romanticize my walk to the car like it’s a scene from a movie.

• I turn my commute into a healing playlist experience and sometimes a Spanish or French lesson (more on that later).

• I pick up fresh flowers from Trader Joe's in the morning right after a NOC shift or treat myself to a fresh watermelon juice with my homemade breakfast when I get home.

• I take a shower with body wash infused with rose essential oils and slide into my coziest robe.

• I thank myself for another day of showing up.

I want to remind you.

You don’t have to wait until vacation to feel alive.

You don’t have to wait until burnout to prioritize pleasure.

You don’t have to dim your magic to be “professional.”

You get to bring beauty, softness, and joy to this life now.

Even in scrubs. Even in sneakers. Even when the chart is long and your lunch break is short.

You are a lighthouse, love.

Let yourself glow.

Dolphin Energy Affirmation:

“I move with joy. I give with grace. I protect my playfulness. I am safe to feel free.”

Ps. This is how I romanticize my nursing life… now I’d love to hear yours. What’s one thing you do to make your work life feel softer, sweeter, or more you?”

And just for fun: If your nursing shift were a romantic movie scene… what song would be playing?

Mine would be “Differences” by Ginuwine

Drop a reflection in the comments below.

Your words matter here. Your softness is safe. And your story just might inspire someone else.

With rose petals + soft strength,

Mika

The Mother of The Nursing Well 🩺🌸🐬✨