"The Conversation"
The word "routine" may bring to mind terms such as "ordinary things" or "everyday things". During the disruption that the pandemic brought to daily life, routines may have been experienced as boring and limiting.
But as an occupational therapist and researcher into the effects of activity and participation on mental health, I know that routines can be powerful tools. They can support human cognitive function, strengthen mental health, and provide meaningful activities and opportunities to socialize with others.
Routines support cognitive function
First, having a daily routine and regular habits strengthens cognitive function, and may even encourage people to be more creative. Studies have found that regular work processes allow workers to spend less cognitive energy on repetitive tasks, and use their focus and creativity for more complex tasks.
A review of the daily rituals of famous artists found that many of them have well-defined routines in their work that can support their creativity, rather than limit it.
A study on memory shows that regular routines and habits can help seniors function better in their home environments. If taking medicine at the same time, or putting keys in their place is part of a daily routine, less energy will be spent searching for lost objects, or worrying about maintaining health, having more too much time for other things people want to do in their day.
Routines strengthen mental health
Regular routines can help people feel in control of their daily lives, and that they can take positive steps in managing their health. For example, finding time for physical exercise within daily routines can help meet recommended daily activity levels.
This is especially important now, as studies are showing that people who reduced their activity levels during the pandemic may experience lasting negative health effects. Other ways that routines can support people's health include regular meal preparation and adequate sleep. Activities that seem simple at first glance, but can provide benefits for healthy aging.
Routines give meaning to life
Various studies show that an activity that promotes physical health, for example, can provide opportunities to enjoy nature, explore new places, and socialize with others. Regular participation in meaningful and engaging activities can contribute positively to your mental health.
Some small steps on how to build new routines
If you think your daily routines could be even more effective for your health, then consider some small steps. First, use a diary or smartphone app to organize your activities, and create a tab of things you want to do during the weekdays.
Then choose a fixed time to wake up and go to sleep, and try to stick to it most days of the week. Make physical activity manageable with neighborhood walks or bike rides a few times a week.
Start a new hobby or re-engage in an old hobby, such as playing certain sports or games, doing arts or crafts, and learning to play an instrument or sing.
And finally, consider engaging in meaningful activities that can re-emerge in your community after the pandemic, such as a reading club at the library, or a social group that you're passionate about hiking.
