8 Life Enhancing Reasons to Commit to a Routine
Routines are the thing that has saved my life. Over and over again. They have pulled me out of dark places. Carried me in times of uncertainty. Kept me strong and resilient when I didn’t think I had anything left in me. And they make my days flow in ways I can rely on.
Here I share the top reasons that I commit to a routine.
1. Enhances emotional regulation so you can show up how you actually want to to your own life
Routines can contribute to better emotional regulation. Research in the journal Emotion shows that maintaining a daily schedule can lead to improved emotional well-being and better stress management.
2. Actually reduces stress levels
“Reduce stress” is one of the most commonly suggested changes from doctors but the how often feels impossible. Routines can help lower stress levels by providing predictability and reducing uncertainty. A study published in the Journal of Anxiety, Stress & Coping found that individuals with regular routines reported lower levels of stress and anxiety.
3. Promotes sleep quality, so you can turn up with some energy
Just because running on caffeine and under eye concealer is normal, doesn’t mean it has to be your life. According to a study in Sleep Medicine, individuals with regular bedtime routines experience better sleep duration and fewer sleep disturbances.
4. Fosters a sense of control
Particularly important to anyone who has any trauma history at all (most of us), routines provide a needed sense of control over one's day. This also boosts self-esteem and reduce feelings of helplessness. Research published in Psychological Science suggests that a perception of control is associated with improved emotional well-being.
5. Encourages the healthy eating you keep meaning to refine for yourself
Having mealtime and meal prep routines can make finally tackling your healthier eating habits a simple, reliable act.
6. Facilitates regular exercise
Relying on internal motivation to stick to an exercise program without routine is a recipe for failure. Motivation comes and goes, commitment is the love language of routines.
7. Supports medication adherence
Boring but important. If you take medication for your mental or physical health– without a routine around it it’s unlikely to happen.
8. Supports digestive health
Regular meal times and eating patterns can benefit digestion. Studies in the journal Nutrients suggest that irregular eating habits may contribute to digestive problems, and no one wants hot girl tummy problems.
As a holistic trainer, I’m not just interested in how often you hit biceps, I want to help you curate routines that will sustain you through this and every chapter of your life. It’s the simple, every day commitments that change and enhance you life. I’d love to be a part of you finding yours.
