While many eschew the New Year and the intentions that many set – we embrace steps in the right direction. A new, popular intention set for 2021: creating a wellness routine.
2020 was a whirlwind, leaving many people needing grounding and a way to anchor their days. A wellness routine balances your week by providing an outline for self care and recovery needs. Customize this easy wellness routine for whatever works best for you and your schedule.
A Four Step Wellness Routine
Don’t want to start an entirely new routine? That’s totally fine! Try starting small with a simple morning routine, or wind down with a nighttime routine. Another tip: try adding in different parts of this simple wellness routine throughout your week and see which resonate with you. A wellness routine is meant to be updated over time.
Here’s how to create a wellness routine:
- Create a workout team – working out is wellness!
- Prioritize a self care event every day
- Set aside time for meditation and deep breathing
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine
Create a Workout Routine
A workout routine can include trying out your favorite classes (virtually) or prioritizing a daily 30 minute walk outdoors, but regardless of choice, working out is essential for promoting wellness and overall health. Exercise improves overall health and mental wellbeing with immediate and longterm effects.
Prioritize One Self Care Event
Self care Sunday, who? Self care is for everyday and doesn’t need to look like a full-on spa ritual. Self care is anytime you set aside for yourself to nourish your mind, body and soul. This can be chatting on the phone with a friend, or booking a spa and beauty service.
Set Aside 10 Minutes for Deep Breathing and/or Meditation
Meditation can be intimidating, so if you’re new to the activity, try starting small with a round of deep parasympathetic breaths. Try breathing in for three counts, holding for three counts and then releasing for three counts. This style of breathing manages our stress responses to help decrease anxiety, fear and racing thoughts.
Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine
It can be incredibly hard to “switch off” while many of us art still working from home. Sleep quality may be impacted by various life stressors and a lack of a calming environment. Creating a sleep routine and practicing sleep hygiene will set you up for success when you need to “wind down” for the night.
