Benefits of Routines

It's the start of the year and everyone around you is talking about their "new routine". Morning routines, night routines, self-care routines. Why is everyone so obsessed with routines and rituals?

To be able to thrive in our environments, humans have developed a cognitive system to help us process and organize the vast amount of information we encounter on a daily basis. This includes categorizing objects, colors, sounds, smells, and movements to help us make sense of our surroundings and navigate our environment more effectively.

Many people develop small rituals or habits as a way to bring structure and predictability to their lives. These rituals can be conscious or unconscious, and they often serve as a source of comfort and security. By establishing routines and rituals, we can feel more in control of our environment and our time, which can help us to manage stress and cope with the demands of daily life.

Rituals can take many forms, from the small and simple (such as always drinking coffee from the same mug) to more elaborate habits or routines (such as a morning meditation practice). Whatever form they take, rituals can help us feel grounded and centered, and they can serve as a source of stability in an unpredictable world.

Benefits Of A Routine

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the importance of healthy lifestyle habits and routines for maintaining good mental and physical wellbeing. In fact, research has shown that engaging in regular physical activity, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and managing stress can all contribute to improved physical and mental health.

In addition, there are many other potential benefits to having a routine or established habits:

1. Improved productivity: Having a routine can help you get more done by breaking larger tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks. This can make it easier to stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
2. Increased energy: A routine can help you make better use of your time and energy by allowing you to prioritize your most important tasks and activities.
3. Better sleep: Having a consistent routine can help regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to better sleep quality.
4. Reduced stress: A routine can help you feel more organized and in control, leading to reduced stress and anxiety.
5. Improved overall well-being: Incorporating healthy habits into your routine, such as exercise or meditation, can help improve your overall well-being.

Making A Routine

It's important that your routine activities are realistic and compatible with your lifestyle, so that you can stick to them consistently. It's also important that they help you feel stronger, energized, and more joyful, rather than causing additional stress or strain.