In today's fast-paced world, routines can anchor us to peace and calm — helping us to manage cognitive load, imbue everyday activities with meaning, and live more harmoniously with the Earth.
What's in a Routine?
Chances are, you repeat many habits every day without thinking: going to bed after the sun sets, taking a shower in the morning, and packing yourself a lunch for work. These are known as "primary routines" — routines around sleep, diet, and hygiene that are essential to human functioning.
Secondary routines, such as leisure, socializing, exercise, work, and studying, help to support our mental health and give meaning to our daily lives. Regular repetition of a routine can help develop it into a habit — an action to which you're so accustomed that it becomes almost involuntary.
What Can Routine Do for You?
Routines sometimes get a bad rap in cultural discourse, particularly as we age. We're told that we shouldn't allow ourselves to get stuck in a "rut"; however, most people find that some degree of structure in their lives allows them to flourish.
Routines help people reduce anxiety by being able to predict what their days and weeks will look like. In turn, reducing anxiety over our life's structure can help free up access to our prefrontal cortex — the part of our brain that allows us to think logically.
Feel the Rhythm, Your Way
Routines can support you emotionally, physically, and mentally. Simple swaps, like walking to work when it's nice out instead of driving, can help you get your steps in and may reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Morning routines, such as having a cold shower, drinking a glass of water upon waking, and getting some sunlight, can boost energy levels and improve overall health. Integrating routines into your workday — such as stretching every hour or having a cup of herbal tea after lunch — can help you to improve emotional regulation and find meaning in your day. Studies also show that regular self-care routines may even improve health outcomes for older adults suffering from chronic illness.
Sync with Nature
Building routines also offers a way to connect more deeply with nature, which is associated with positive mental health benefits. Learn about Indigenous perspectives on seasonality, which call for us to connect with the landscapes around us; eat local, seasonal foods; and embrace the changing of the seasons.
Try intentionally structuring your day around the movement of the sun: waking to catch its first morning rays, using its high-noon position as a cue to do some midday movement, and limiting access to screens once it has dipped below the horizon.
Give Yourself Grace
Remember to respect your body's biological boundaries. If you're naturally a night owl, implementing an early-morning routine may not last long. Aim for a routine that, above all, feels sustainable. Finally, don't be afraid to shake things up if you feel a routine is no longer serving you.
By Isabela Bonnevera
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.