Living with a Routine
A lot has changed over the past couple months, I recently moved to Chicago and accepted a new job! It’s a very exciting time and living in the city is a new adventure. With the changing weather, new work environment and experiences, it is so important for someone who is trying to balance their hormones to focus on balancing their life. At times, it can seem overwhelming and that is why I have been adamant about establishing a routine.
As a 20-something in a new city, a routine is a MUST! Especially when you are working 70+ hours a week and trying to balance a boyfriend, working out, eating right and being with friends. When I fall off of my routine, I can tell my body is out of whack. I am more prone to becoming sick, breakout and feel anxious. This is when I know I need to hit the restart button and take care of myself.
When it comes to creating your routine, it is important to build one that works with your lifestyle. If you are not a morning person, don’t make yourself book it to the gym at 6 a.m. Catch a spinning class after work. I personally enjoy working out in the morning, so I revolve my schedule around when I sweat it out. I also find it helpful to try and eat my meals at the same time everyday (dinner fluctuates depending on the day) to keep my blood sugar level. Incorporate grocery shopping and meal prepping into your week to be ready to go!
It’s also important to find a nightly routine that you enjoy. Take a bath, read a book, journal or watch an episode of your favorite show – although it is better to stay away from light boxes before bed. Sleep helps your hormones stay balanced, strengthens your immune system and reboots your metabolism. I personally enjoy watching an episode or two of Vampire Diaries, journaling for a bit or reading my book. When I am able to sleep in, I allow myself in order to feel refreshed and energized.
I cannot say enough that it’s important to find a routine that works for you. Spice it up every once in awhile, try adding something new to your weekly routine and don’t forget to be a tad spontaneous. Keep in mind that you are doing this for you and that it is okay to say “no” to things you don’t want to do. If you are too tired, don’t go out to the club with your friends. If you would rather do brunch than dinner, do it! The world is yours and you can conquer it when you are feeling your best and not running yourself thin. Now, here are a few tips for establishing a routine:
Routine Building 101
- Write it down! It’s easier to follow something you can visually see.
- Start slow – Don’t commit to a routine that changes your whole lifestyle, work things in slowly so they stick and become a habit.
- Learn to say “No” – We’re all adults now and we don’t have to do things we don’t want to do. If you would rather stay in and lounge on the couch instead of taking shots at the bar with friends, do it! You should never feel bad for taking care of yourself.
- Be yourself – Don’t be embarrassed for working things into your life that you enjoy. Make yourself happy and be committed to you! This isn’t to prove yourself to your friends or family.
Take a hot, steamy Eucalyptus shower in the morning to start your day or calm your nerves at night.
Meal prep for the week ahead so that your meals are ready to go when your schedule becomes busy.
A workout routine helps manage stress and balance hormones. Don’t forget to switch it up so you don’t get bored.
Treat yourself before bed – do a face mask, brush your teeth or wind down with essential oils.
Light some sage first thing in the morning or before bed to cleanse your space and thoughts.
Re-energize with crystals.
Get to bed before 10 p.m. if possible.
