Have you been feeling like you've been going nonstop and haven't prioritized yourself enough? Or have you been feeling drained physically, mentally, and emotionally? As summertime is starting, I am taking advantage of this time to listen and be there for myself, and to give myself the love I deserve. As overworked as we are, or the thought of not doing enough can play endlessly in our minds, we are all entitled to rest and give ourselves the space we need in this hectic world. Summer is usually a time where people can take a break, so I find that it is the perfect time to pause, tune in, and ask yourself what feels good and what doesn't. This is also a moment where you need to be realistic and truthful with yourself about what is working and what isn't. Right now, I am creating and assessing a routine for myself, and what I need to incorporate on a daily bases. Creating a routine doesn't have to be perfect, because it is all personal and depends on your life, personality, responsibilities, and environment. There are a few certain ways I like to figure out a healthy beneficial routine for myself.
Figuring Out a Daily Routine That Works For You
Morning
What is the best way for you to wake up in the morning? Music? Light? Alarm?
How can you motivate yourself to get out of bed and start your day? Music? Morning affirmations? Motivational words to read when you awake? Thinking about what you can enjoy or look forward to that day?
Also something to think about--your phone in the morning. I find my mornings to start off better if I wait until after breakfast to check any social media apps. If I need to check my phone when I wake up, I will at most check any urgent messages or emails. When it comes to your mental health, ask yourself if looking through your phone when you wake up is good for you or your energy.
For me, breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, and something I look forward to when I wake up. Although everyone has different eating habits, think about your favorite breakfast meals and what works best for you. Maybe you can wake up earlier so you can have time to make and enjoy your favorite breakfast, or even treat yourself once in awhile going to your favorite cafe.
Whether you have a skincare routine before or after breakfast, think about if you are present in those private moments with yourself. Is your mind occupied thinking about all the things you need to do that day? How can you alleviate the overthinking and stress? Journaling? Making a list? Take a few breathes? Whichever method works for you.
Afternoon
Depending on your schedule for the day, think about when you feel the most productive, when you need a break, and be honest with how much you can take on within a day. You will thank yourself later on and not feel so drained.
Take a few moments throughout your day for a few breathes and to tune in with how you're feeling. Set a reminder on your phone to get used to it.
Hydrate!!
Take the time to do at least one thing for yourself within the day. Watching a favorite movie, favorite meal or snack, nap, taking a walk, reaching out to a friend, reading, meditating, listening to music, etc. Whatever makes you feel good.
Evening/night
If you take your showers at night, envision yourself cleansing away low or negative energy you encountered throughout the day, and as you step out of the shower, you will feel light, refreshed, and rejuvenated for the night.
Before you go to bed, take in your day. Think about the experience of your day, what might you want to do differently? What do you want to do more of? What felt good?
Take a moment to think about the next day; if you have errands to get done, what will be the best way to get everything done for you? Maybe you want to plan waking up earlier than usual to do everything peacefully and within time.
What is the best way for you to have a restful sleep? Taking a few deep breathes? Quick meditation? Sleep music? Reading a book? Think about the best way you can prepare for sleep that doesn't involve screens (trust me I still struggle with this).
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