How to Create Mindful Daily Rituals That Actually Stick (Free Download!)
Hands up if you love a #selfcaresunday or a #facemasksaturday. Sure, don’t we all? But self-care isn’t simply about treating yourself. It’s creating space for positive actions that help keep stress levels in check and doing what’s necessary to maintain a healthy harmony in your daily life - mentally, physically, and emotionally.
The power of mindful rituals goes way beyond just showing yourself some love when you’ve got the time. Rituals are about making the time to prioritize your mindset and wellbeing as something that is equally important as all the other obligations that stack up in your calendar every week. They’re about slowing down, being present in that moment, setting your intentions, and doing something you enjoy or that will create a positive impact on your day.
Mindful daily rituals don’t have to be complicated. There’s no need to conform to any set expectations. It's all about progression - not perfection. So, feel empowered by the steps you DO take. You can simply be YOU, unplug, sit, breath, and tune in. It can be as simple as taking 5 minutes out of your day to focus on your breath. Scan how your body feels. Take in the present moment.
Dig my cozy outfit? It’s from my friends at Splendid. It’s soft, comfortable, and super cute. Splendid is all about cherishing every moment, big or small and their clothing embraces that by giving you comfort that looks AND feels good. Big thanks to Splendid for partnering!
So, how to create mindful daily rituals that actually stick? Keep reading…
One size does not fit all.
There’s no right or wrong way here, and there are no rules that you should feel compelled to follow. With so many different variations, recommendations and ideas out there, it’s all too easy to get swept up by what other people are doing. While it’s fine to be inspired by what others are doing, what matters most is that you find what works for you. Keep it simple. You don’t need to try to do everything. Remember, the most beneficial habits are the ones you can stick to.
If you’re not sure how to create your own ritual, write down a few ideas that are speaking to you and try out different things! See what makes you feel the best, and what you think you can incorporate into your day. There’s no one-size-fits-all routine, so find what resonates with you. It’s your practice- you get to own it.
Acknowledge the mindful habits you’re already practicing.
Take stock of the things you do routinely. You might even have some rituals of your own that you haven’t even noticed. Do you check on your plant babies every morning when you wake up? Or maybe you have a certain sweat sesh each week that you ‘go to religiously’? Do you always call your best gal pal at the same time every week for a catch-up or go for a walk in the evenings after work? Well, surprise! You’ve got yourself a ritual.
So often we don’t even notice the habits and patterns we’ve formed and solidified over time. Take a moment to acknowledge the foundations you’ve already created without even consciously trying to. When you really tune in, see how they make you feel and the intentions behind them. These are natural starting points to build on, and by bringing awareness to them you’ll only heighten the benefits.
Identify your non-negotiables.
Life changes, schedules change, stuff is always going to come up - it’s inevitable. The reality is you may not be able to stick to the same practice every single day. Having said that, no matter what my day looks like there are a few non-negotiables that help me maintain a sense of control and balance even when it feels like my schedule is hitting the fan.
My current morning non-negotiables are my daily meditation/introspection practice and my matcha latte ritual. It may sound silly, but these two things are what keeps me grounded and ready to take on the day.
Even if you’re feeling short on time, please don’t push off the things that bring you internal and external joy. Make it a priority, especially when you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed. That’s when you need it most.
Not sure where to start? Here’s a list of ideas of rituals you can cultivate into your life that will bring you more peace and joy. If you ever feel lost, you can always come back to this list for inspiration.
Drink a big glass of water when you wake up.
Meditate or sit in silence with you thoughts for 5-10 minutes.
Reset your space each morning: clear off your surfaces, clean dirty dishes, put everything back in it’s ‘home’, make your bed, etc.
Walk outside hands-free (no tech).
Call your loved ones (when’s the last time you called your grandparents?)
Cook at home.
Journal, write, let it all flow onto the pages.
Do something active that makes you sweat.
Check your bank account (doesn’t count as something that makes you sweat LOL)
Read a book before bed.
Cuddle with your furbaby.
Go to bed 15 minutes early.
Remember every little bit counts. It's the little things done consistently that will add up to the big things. And the best kind of change isn't always something you can physically see. It's something you feel internally, in the deepest parts of you. Don't overthink it, just start somewhere. Stop talking about what you want to change, and just live it.
Hugs,
Jules x