Some people hate having routine in their life, others thrive off it. We are all different and that's ok.
However, research shows that having routine in our lives helps our mental and physical wellbeing. So why not give it a go.
How you start your day has an enormous impact on how the rest of your day goes. If you start the day pressing the snooze button and then rushing around, it can literally ruin your day. Add these simple habits to your morning routine, to enable yourself to function at your best.
Morning
1. Rise early.
Choose a time to get up and stick to it every day (even when you have nothing specific to get up for). Fix a time which enables you to have a calm, relaxing morning, without rushing around trying to get everything done…even if that is 5am!!!
2. Recite affirmations
Positive affirmations are positive statements about yourself which can be used to reframe how you think about yourself. Say them every morning to start your day off well.
I am motivated
I am good enough
Today will be a great day
I am successful
I am fit and healthy
3. Meditate daily
Meditation helps bring a sense of calm, peace and balance. There are lots of simple ways to incorporate basic meditation into your life. Sit and focus on your breath for 5 minutes. Follow a meditation app. Do a body scan (start at your feet and relax each part of you bit by bit).
4. Exercise every day Exercising first thing in the morning helps you to wake up and release endorphins (the feel good hormones). Whether it is a 5 mile run, a walk around the block or a 10 minute stretch…it all helps.
5. Take a cold shower
This is a tough one but the benefits outweigh the suffering. It increases the blood flow, burns away unhealthy fat and releases dopamine into the body.
Your evening rituals are just as important. These can help you to sleep better and to release the stresses of the day.
Evening
6. Reflect on the day’s achievements
Grab your journal and reflect on all that you have achieved today. Focus only on the positives. Think of the things that you have been grateful for throughout this day.
7. Prepare for the next day
Write a list of what you need/want to achieve the following day. This helps us to focus and means you are less likely to procrastinate.
8. Stay off technology
Make sure you have at least 30 minutes away from your phone/laptop etc before your bedtime. The blue light emitted by your phone screen restrains the production of melatonin (the hormone which controls your sleep-wake cycle).
9. Wind down
Do what relaxes you. Read a book, take a bath, listen to some music.
10. Go to bed early
The amount of sleep you gets can control your mood. Try and keep to the same bedtime each evening. It is recommended that everyone gets 7-9 hours sleep a night.
Those of you who love routine may read this list and be planning to get it all started tomorrow…good for you! Those of you who dread routine may not have even got to the bottom of the page…but if you have, maybe just incorporate 1 or 2 of these ideas. Focus on how it makes you feel. Has it changed your day?
Good luck!