By Suzy Reading, Chartered Psychologist, author and specialist in healthy habits that bring peace and zest.
We're a few weeks into the summer holidays in my neck of the woods, and we've reached the point where shapelessness doesn't feel so delicious anymore. Humans need the security, predictability and structure that routines provide so I wanted to share with you some ways you can create your own rhythm and pulse, whether it's summer or just a chapter of change for you.
3 ways to cultivate a routine of your choosing
1. Relish the absence of the things you are happy not to be doing. What have you got a break from doing? List them and enjoy not having to do them.
2. Identify the structure that does remain or the routine you are choosing to continue with. It could be as simple as doing the grocery shop on a Saturday, changing the sheets on a Sunday, or keeping the same bedtime and rise time. What remains unchanged and what are you selecting to keep the same?
3. Select your "5 a day" - your health non-negotiables. Create loose shape by getting clear on what you need in your day to feel alive, present and at peace. Pick just 5 things and aim to get a little taste of them every day, where possible. Make a mind map of them and include lots of different ways that you can honour that need so there is choice, freedom and variety. Some suggestions include:
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movement
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nature
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social connection
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creativity
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learning
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fun
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rest and relaxation
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fun
If you need inspiration for how you can meet these needs, for parents, check out Stand Tall Like a Mountain which has practices that the whole family can enjoy. If you need more 'on the go' options, try The Little Book of Self-Care. And if you are tired of hearing the kids say "I'm bored", pick up a copy of This Book Will Help Make You Happy and they can find something in there for themselves.
And when all else fails, you can all try massaging your horns :)
See here for instructions: how to massage your horns.
I hope this gives you the gentle scaffolding you need. Happy choosing!
Suz x
