**Why Morning and Evening Routines Matter**

Morning and evening routines are like the bookends that support the story of your day. They ensure that you’re not merely a “human doing” but also a “human being.” These routines serve as a reminder to take care of yourself, nourish your body, and prepare yourself to do your best work while showing up for your loved ones. Here’s why they matter:

1. **Structure and Balance**: Morning routines offer structure to your day, helping you start with a clear intention. Evening routines bring closure, allowing you to unwind, relax, and prepare for a good night’s sleep.

2. **Prioritisation**: By creating a morning routine, you prioritise self-care and activities that fuel you. This ensures you don’t jump right into work and leave self-care behind.

3. **Realistic Start**: Acknowledging how slow or energetic you are in the morning can help you allocate time wisely, ensuring you’re not rushing (I personally hate rushing and will allow a couple hours in the morning between waking and heading out the door or sitting at my desk).

4. **Better Sleep**: Evening routines can help you wind down and optimise your sleep quality. Reducing screen time at least an hour before bed can lead to a more restful sleep.

**Building Your Morning Routine**

When crafting a morning routine, it’s crucial to work backward from your average start time. Ask yourself when do you wish to sit at your desk or start your work. This time is your anchor, and everything else in your morning routine flows from it.

Next, consider activities that make you feel good and energised. For some, it’s reading the news, having a nutritious breakfast, going for a walk, or journaling. By including these activities, you ensure your morning routine sets a positive tone for the day. Grounding yourself in the morning prevents the chaos of rushing to work and leaving things in disarray, making your day more enjoyable.

**Crafting Your Evening Routine**

Starting your evening routine is relatively simple: ask yourself when you’d like to be in bed with the lights out, ready to sleep. Work backward from this time, and get into the nitty-gritty details, such as when you brush your teeth or wash your face.

In today’s world, where screens dominate our lives, consider the impact of screen time on your sleep. Research continually highlights the adverse effects of technology on our sleep quality. It’s advisable to put away your phone and other technology at least an hour before sleep to ensure a peaceful night’s rest.

Other evening routine alternatives can include reading a book, listening to soothing music or a podcast, or journaling. Tailor your routine to suit your preferences and optimise the quality of your sleep.

Incorporating morning and evening routines into your daily life can be transformative. They provide structure, balance, and a sense of self-care that sets you up for a productive and fulfilling day. Bookending your days is a practice worth investing in.

If you need assistance in crafting your own morning and evening routines tailored to your unique needs and goals, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help you start and end your day on the right note, promoting well-being and productivity. Have a fantastic day and a restful night’s sleep!