Post-Summer Blues? Why Getting Back Into a Regular Routine Can Help
As we get ready to say goodbye to the lazy days of summer, it’s time to embrace and take advantage of the season of change—fall. As the season changes, it can be a great time to evaluate your regular routine and get back on track with both your mental and physical health. And as simple as it may seem, establishing a regular routine has some surprising benefits. Regular routines help us cope with day-to-day stressors, manage change, create healthy habits, improve relationships, and can even help manage many mental health issues. Experts say it takes 21 days to form a new routine, so get started now and get ready to make a significant difference in how you look and feel. Inspired to make a change? Here’s some surprising benefits of a getting back to a regular routine.
Benefits of a Regular Routine
- It will start your day off right: Giving yourself enough time in the morning will set you up for success all day long. From meditation and exercise to caring for your skin, meal prepping and taking care of household tasks, eliminating the morning rush will leave you feeling accomplished and energetic before you day has even begun. Worried about losing sleep? The answer is simple: unplug the night before and go to be earlier.
- You’ll sleep better: Speaking of getting more sleep, establishing a bedtime routine is essential to good physical and mental health. Keep in mind this goes beyond just getting enough sleep: there are proven benefits to maintaining consistent sleep routines as well. Studies show that the more irregular the sleep patterns, the higher risk for obesity, hypertension and elevated blood sugar. The key? Establish a bedtime routine, go to bed at a regular time every night, and get up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
- Decision-making improves: You’ll be surprised how a consistent routine both in the morning and at night will save you brainpower and leave you with more energy to focus on bigger decisions when they come up.
- You’ll have more time for the people and things you love: From establishing regular mealtimes with your family, to planning weekend activities or date nights, having a regular routine will help you manage all the “must do’s” during the week, and allow for more time to do those things that lead to better overall physical and mental health. By creating an efficient, routine schedule, you'll leave room for activities you truly enjoy.