Now that we’re all adjusting to life after lockdown, it’s important to put in place daily routines to not only improve our productivity but our overall mental and physical well being.

The obvious but often problematic areas of setting routines revolve around wake-up times, exercise, nutritional choices, managing screen time and night time routines.

We unpack some of the challenges around these with useful tips and idea’s to get you back on track post lockdown.

Create a good morning structure by starting the day at the same time every day. Set the alarm for a routine sleep and wake up time each day.  Bedtime and wake-up times are intricately linked so it’s best to plan bed time to ensure that your wake-up routine starts after a good 7-8 hours rest.

Now might be a time to overhaul nutritional choices.  Whether vegan, vegetarian, meat eater or not fussed, the key to a healthy diet is making the right choices. No matter what diet you do or don’t follow, planning what you eat is key to making healthy choices and creating positive new routines.

A fridge & cupboard that is filled with ingredients to make quick, easy snacks and meals will curb the temptation to fall back on the lazier option of take-aways & ready-made meals.

Stay hydrated and start the day with a glass of water to rehydrate after a night’s rest, especially important in the warmer months to wake up the body & mind and get your skin glowing.

Fill a bottle with water and sip on it throughout the day.  If water gets a bit boring include mint, lemon or fruit to up the taste experience.  A mug of mint or chamomile tea after a meal is another way to increase hydration levels and help the digestive system.

Take time to wind down before bed instead of flopping into bed exhausted or falling asleep in front of a screen. A bedtime routine is key to preparing for a good 7-8 hours sleep every night.

A relaxing bath filled with bath salts and essential oils is another way to help decompress after a busy day.

Tidy up and remove any clutter from your sleeping space.  This contributes to a stress-free environment which is beneficial when winding down at the end of the day.  A clean room also removes any dust particles & bacteria which supports improved breathing for a better night’s rest.

Be a reader – step away from social media and emails before bedtime.  Take time to read or journal.  This is a good time to reflect on the day that was or set your intent for the next day.

Finally, if you need a bit of extra help falling asleep, try meditation.  If you are new to this, there are some amazing apps online to help relax the body and mind.

It can take a few weeks to change habits and at times it can prove difficult and inconvenient.  However, don’t be too hard on yourself, if the new structures lapse, just set them up and start again.

The discipline of routines won’t take away the stress from obstacles and setbacks, but they will make life more manageable.  Healthy routines are key to living a fulfilled life.

TARIO Team