Emily HaworthThere is power in routine, and a deep sense of grounding that comes from habitual self-love. Rituals do not have to be daily, they can be weekly or monthly. They are simply a time you have chosen to cherish and care for yourself.
You might even find that your newly chosen ritual is something you have already been doing! It is your intention and engagement that elevate a mindless habit into a mindful ritual.
Morning Ritual Ideas
Starting your morning with intention is a great way to ensure that you’ll be getting the most out of your day. Find a way to project all of those new thoughts and the fresh energy that you’ve woken up with into the day ahead.
Most of us already have a morning routine that we follow, which may include brushing our teeth, drinking a hot drink or making the bed.
Are you able to add intention to any of the things you are currently doing? Could you give yourself an affirmation to repeat in the mirror while brushing your teeth, take a minute to sit down on your freshly made bed, write out your goals for the upcoming day/week/month, or take a quiet moment to sit outside with that morning hot drink.
Or are able to find the space to add something more into your morning routine? Mornings are great for things like journaling, breath-work, yoga, stretching and walks.
Evening Ritual Ideas
Evening rituals are great for winding down and reflecting inward, so journaling, stretching, and meditation are also great for this time.
But don’t forget to look at what you are already doing. Where you could elevate these routines? Add essential oil to your shower and make it a time for reflection, or light a candle while you’re relaxing with your current book. Choose a scent that you’ll look forward to sitting with, take deep breaths and enjoy the warmth you have surrounded yourself with. Maybe you can dim the lights after your book and use that moment as your reflection time for the evening.
Even dinner can be an evening ritual by mindfully preparing it. Take time while you are cooking to think about where your food came from, how you are going to be nourishing your body and the bodies of anyone sharing the meal with you.
Weekly and Monthly Ritual ideas
Rituals do not have to be daily, which makes each experience even more fulfilling when it’s a time we get to look forward to.
Choose a time during of the week or month that is made for you. It could be a whole day, where you spend time with yourself at home, at the beach or a favourite outdoor spot. Or just a few hours, with a hot shower with a special soap or essential oil, where you take extra care to moisturise and exfoliate. Sit in the park for a long lunch or take yourself on a coffee date where you write about the time since you last checked in with yourself. Days can sometimes be rushed, long and hectic. This makes finding time to pause and check in with yourself hugely beneficial.
Rituals work on the basis that doing is believing, and connect us with the sacred. Bringing this consciousness to pieces of our life is vital for our spiritual connection, wellness and over all health.
