#18 routines

Routine is the death of awareness.”― Charlee Dyroff, Loneliness & Company

Hello lovelies,

This is a stark quote, I know and I disagree with it. When I researched for quotes they all said the same but science teaches us otherwise. I think routines enhance awareness, give us focus and intentions, more importantly, the right energy. Routines set us up right and allow for us make the most of our day, they let us stay in touch with our needs right at the very beginning and ends of days.

Morning

Morning routines, I’d argue, are the most important. They tend to be longer for people but can also be a simple few actions. Mornings allow for little acts of self-care before we go on with our day. Those few moments of peace before busyness ensues. It can act as a moment of solitude, setting intentions, making plans. A morning routine can act as a way of embracing the day just right.

As an example, I am very much a morning person, my partner is not. His routine involves making the bed, mindfully making coffee and breakfast then getting dressed and he’s ready. A shorter way of gently waking up and setting himself up right. For me, I make the bed, shower, dress, journal twice, meditate and read texts, and then I feel somewhat ready. If there’s any cleaning to do I add that shortly after my routine as well as podcasts first thing when I can.

There is no one size fits all. It takes a lot of experimentation to find what works. I don’t set hard time limits, never, because some days will be much easier than others. I do try to wake up for 8am, but given my sleep habits it can be much earlier. I feel like having so many actions that are mindful and bringing me to the present acts as a way of mastery, achievement and flow – all very good in positive psychology.

Evening

My evening routine is much simpler. It is just a few little, and simple, actions to let my brain know it’s time to increase that melatonin. So, I do a general tidy, take myself upstairs, check in on my apps and do a brain dump, plan the next day, then apply my calming balms, pillow spray and hand cream (when I am not tired!) then I try to settle, I also wash my face and mouth and sort the next day’s outfit. This has only recently worked in the last few months.

An evening routine can be especially important if you’re a night person. It is about ending the day in a way you feel comfortable. A way in which you can soothe any stresses. Sleep at night is vital for functioning. Night routines can be extended to you, especially if you are a night person. I just found I was too exhausted by the end of the day but couldn’t settle down and therefore got agitated.

Some important things to consider:

do you have needs which aren’t being met?
is your current routine serving you well?
are you a morning or night person?
do you practice enough self-care?
do you have time to yourself?

Overall, like with activity scheduling, you are freeing up some decision fatigue, you then have a chance to find what you need and want to do with your day, enhancing creativity and bringing more joy throughout, sparking up energy.