Life changes as the seasons change. I’m noticing a new flow as we enter into spring, and some of my routines have shifted too.
I think it’s healthy to always be looking at your life, habits, and routines: what’s working in my life right now, and what do I need to shift to feel more aligned. The beauty is you can make changes that help your life feel aligned. You have control.
Here are a few of my non-negotiable things to keep my energy aligned right now:
Limiting Caffeine
Never in a million years did I think I would cut back on caffeine. I don’t drink it that much, but I had to have it every day, sometimes 2 cups in the morning and one in the afternoon. After visiting with my functional medicine doctor, she suggested I cut back to 1-2 mornings a week, try decaf when you can, or substitute with matcha. I decided to test it out. After 4 days of raging headaches, I have adjusted my routine and feel so much more aligned. I now have 1/2 cup coffee with Malk oat milk and cinnamon every other morning. On the other mornings, I have my Pique Matcha with Malk Oat Milk, pure vanilla, and cinnamon. I feel more relaxed, less anxious, and I know it’s better for my adrenal health! I especially cut back when on my period and feel a big difference.
Mid Day Meditations
Friends, this has changed my life! Yes, morning meditations set us up for success, and I love my morning routine. However, mid-day is when I need that extra shift. I start playing mid-day mind games on myself, feeling rushed, anxious about finishing work, tired, and many times overwhelmed. Many of you might feel this way and think you need coffee or snacks when what you really need is a mid-day pause. Take a 15-minute walk, or even better, combine it with a 10-minute meditation or walking meditation. Reflect on all you have accomplished and realign for the rest of your day. Getting outside always makes everything better.
Journaling
I’m not perfect, and there is lots of room for growth, but on the days I journal my days seem to flow so much more! I love journaling after a workout or meditation. Many times it’s free-flow or a simple prompt. I don’t judge what I’m writing, and just let my inner spirit and God lead me. So much has come out of my journals and I know it’s helping me towards my next steps.
Face Masks
I’ve said it before and will say it again, a face mask makes all the difference! Right now, I love using Beautycounter’s AHA exfoliating mask 2 times a week. It clears dead skin cells and leaves my skin glowing. I love it so much and know you will too!
Limiting Screen Time
So my algorithm might be off, Instagram is penalizing me for not posting all the time, and my mental health is better! Ha, I’ll take the latter. I love Instagram and connecting online, I love the community, and I also love my downtime off screens. Less blue light and more time to read makes me feel productive in other ways and supports my creativity as well. No screen Sunday is a game-changer, and I’ve really cut back on weekends altogether!
Blocking Off Creative Time
This one is huge! Each Sunday I put everything on my calendar. How am I using my time, what feels good, what can I let go of, and what do I need more off. I noticed I wanted more creative time. Now, I block off 1 day a week for 2-3 hours of creative flow. I typically have it on a Thursday or Friday as later in the week is less work hectic. I turn off my phone and computer, move to a bright space in my house, listen to a podcast I love or music mix, and let my creativity flow. I love this!
Alcohol: 1-2 Glasses a Week
This is a big one for me. I have gone back and forth about cutting out 100%. Maybe one day I will! For now, drinking alcohol during the week doesn’t feel good. Having 1 glass of really good rosè on the weekend does. However, more than one doesn’t feel good. So, for me, allowing myself 1-2 glasses of wine is a ritual I love to share with good friends or my husband. I’m always assessing what feels good in my body when it comes to alcohol. I’ll share some of my favorite nonalcoholic wines and beverages in another blog soon.
Movement
For me right now, I do free flow for 20 to 30 minutes a day. I love this new way of moving and mindfulness all in one. I shared my method in my first workshop, Reset to Radiance. Round two of the workshop starts later in April. Join us – email me for more information.
These 8 things came to me today after a nice Sunday walk (also a non-negotiable). I am a better mom, wife, and person when these happen. I hope these help you, and I’d love to hear from you!
xx Kristine