“Even the cat has a routine—stretch, nap, snack, repeat. There’s wisdom in the simple things.”
Today’s topic: The Power of Daily Rituals
Cats, have you ever noticed how they always seem to go to the same places – napping spot, sunning window, have the same judgmental glares. Yeah I’m sure you all know what I’m talking about. Well turns out cats crave that routine in their lives – much like people do. It helps keep their stress low, improves mental & physical health, and overall well being!
It brought about some clarity – if cats, creatures known for their independence, thrives on routine, maybe we as humans could learn a thing or two. Curl up and explore with me how building simple habits, incorporated into our day can give us the same calm , balance, and purring contentment!
So routines – that can be a scary word. Where do you even begin to explain what they are and why they are helpful! Well, from my experience here are some benefits of incorporating routines in your daily activities. Routines can create stability in an unstable world – man that’s comforting to know don’t you think?
Stability – now I can’t speak for everyone, but that is something we take for granted everyday. It’s a simple term with a big impact. Stability and routine is a hand in hand concept, especially for people with creative minds. The creative types will tell, their mind is a controlled chaos zone – beware of flying ideas and projects! As chaotic as their minds are, there is still a routine involved in their day – though it may not be as structured as you would think!
I think they take their cues from cats– the bossy divas that they are. Taking naps in the same sunspots, meowing when meal time comes around – clearly reminding you it’s time to eat! You’d be surprised to know the “zoomies” even happen on schedule – that’s news to me! Routine gives them a safe space. Repetitive patterns allow for a reduction of stress, added comforts, and no sudden surprises – mainly when everything feels like wearing a shirt two sizes too small!
Between you and me – we aren’t very different. Adding subtle structure to our days can make the loudness of life feel more manageable – controlled even. Similar to the cats in our lives, people crave knowing where our next cup of coffee is coming from! I, for one, will fully admit I love a good routine!
For me, I try to break down my routine into three categories – Morning, Midday, and Evenings! I start my day normally around 5:45 AM to 6:15 AM. During this time, I do my morning stretches – the downward cat of course! After stretches comes brewing my coffee, then making my bed. I also try to incorporate one or two simple and easy chores before getting ready for my day. By doing this I am able to start my day feeling accomplished!
There isn’t anything like starting your morning on a positive note! Rolling right into my midday flow on a positive note. Now my midday isn’t as different as most. On top of writing a blog, I also have a typical 9 to 5 – I know, what a crazy life!! Typically, I would be knee deep in paperwork, broken equipment, and probably calling someone an idiot.
When I get to head home, I try to do some form of exercise before cooking dinner and showering my crazy day! After my shower and I’m all warm and cozy, I get to my favorite part of the day – snuggling with my cat! My favorite part of the evening is feeling the warmth of his fluffy butt on my lap, side or legs.
Honestly, he is probably only hanging out with me for my laptop – sad but could be the truth! I enjoy getting my writing done in the evenings. Evenings to me are the most peaceful, no interruption or distractions! After I write for a while it’s time for bed and to do it all over again the next day! As great as having a routine is, there are struggles and adjustments that have to be made. Some routines are hard to stick to, for routines that look good on paper but not the daily grind that is your life – much like cats who decided 3:00 A.M is now playtime! If i had to pin-point the hardest routines, it would have to be
Waking up early – without hitting snooze, multiple times. Who doesn’t love their warm and cozy bed! Unfortunately, asking my cat to let me have my slow wake up wasn’t “the vibe” as the youngsters say. Mornings were not for a slow gentle wakeup but for hunger induced riots, making it everyone’s problem.
I still wake up at 5:45 AM… but now I have an automatic feeder that saves both of us from each other – until I forget to refill it… Bottom line, even when your intentions are good, some routines will have a little feline flexibility. Honestly, there is nothing wrong with that. A routine doesn’t need perfection – trying again each day putting one paw in front of the other is key!
I’d like to know what routines bring calm to your day? Or do you all have any cozy rituals you swear by? Leave a pawprint below!
See you next time!
– Quill
