Habits, Rituals and Routines

"Any ritual is an opportunity for transformation."

Here at Rise&Bloom, we are very keen on the power of positive habits. Of course, we all know how easy it is for negative habits to creep into our lives. Whether it's constantly posting on, or checking on, social media, or slobbing on the sofa for hours on end, or 'needing' a biscuit with every cup of tea or coffee, bad habits are insidious and sometimes feel unbreakable.

Don't get me wrong though - there is no judgement here. I, like everyone, am susceptible to developing bad habits. Particularly on a bad pain day, when all you want to do is escape from it all. But the discoveries that habits are a) nothing more than the repetition of an act, and b) eminently breakable, have been incredibly liberating.

One way to kick bad habits is to actively replace unhealthy routines with new, healthier ones. A recent social media trend of swapping screen time for reading books is a lovely example. So, you wake up in the morning and automatically reach for your phone to check social media; but instead, you read a couple of pages of a book. You go to check your phone whilst waiting for the kettle to boil; but instead - you guessed it! - you pick up a book.

People taking part in this 'positive habit swap' have reported feeling happier, calmer and more fulfilled. It gives the brain a much-needed regular gentle dose of dopamine, without the negative impacts of social media.

Whilst habits are actions that are performed repeatedly, often without conscious thought, rituals are more planned, and performed with intention and focus. Rituals can be ultimate acts of self-care, that ideally will bring you closer to your vision of the things you want to be, do, have or feel.

Maybe it's starting your morning with a meditation session, to ground yourself before the stresses of the day. Perhaps it's a ten minute lunchtime walk to clear your mind, breathe in some fresh air, and have a moment to 'just be.' Or it could be the act of mindfully preparing a wholesome meal at the end of a busy day; or a few minutes each night reflecting on your day, and saying a few words of gratitude for the people and things that you love.

One small step at a time, changing negative habits for more positive ones. Cultivating rituals to nourish and enhance your mind, body and soul. Try it for yourself, and let us know here at Rise&Bloom how you get on.

Love, Zoë.