#Daily tasks full
Research on the concept of flow, a state of full absorption in the present moment, shows that activities like sports, games, fine arts and music can be fulfilling and reinforcing. Evidence indicates that a health-promoting activity like walking can offer chances to enjoy nature, explore new places and socialize. Regular routines can also go beyond the streamlining of daily tasks and add some spice to life. Other ways that routines can support health include regular meal preparation and getting enough sleep, activities that seem simple but can pay dividends in healthy aging over a lifetime. This is especially relevant now, since research shows that people who reduced their activity levels during the pandemic could experience enduring health effects.Īs people increase activity outside their homes, they might consider taking transit to school and work, returning to organized fitness activities and the gym and opportunities to include movement throughout the day.
For example, making time for exercise within routines can help meet recommended daily activity levels. Regular routines can also help people feel like they have control over their daily lives and that they can take positive steps in managing their health. Making time for exercise within routines can help meet recommended daily activity levels.(Unsplash/Dylan Gillis) Routines promote health If taking medications at the same time and putting the keys in their spot is part of a daily routine, less energy will be spent looking for lost objects and worrying about maintaining one’s health, freeing up time for other things people want to do in their day. Memory research shows that regular routines and habits can support older adults to function better in their home environments. Having habits like these can set the stage for a productive work day.Ī review of the daily rituals of influential artists found that many artists have well defined work routines which may support their creativity rather than constrain it. Think of typical morning routines that existed before the pandemic: helping family members get on their way, taking a usual route to work, grabbing a warm beverage along the way, saying hello to coworkers, flipping on a computer or opening a calendar. Research has found that having regular work processes allows workers to spend less cognitive energy on recurring tasks, which can support focus and creativity for more complex tasks.
#Daily tasks free
As the two-year anniversary of the pandemic coincides with the relaxation of public health measures across the country, reflecting on routines and their value is useful when moving toward a “new normal.” Routines support cognitive functionįirst, having a daily routine and regular habits supports cognitive function and may even free people up to be more creative. They can support cognitive function, boost health and provide meaningful activities and social opportunities.Įarly in the pandemic, researchers pointed to the value of daily routines to cope with change. However, as an occupational therapist and researcher of the impact of activity and participation on mental health, I know that routines can be powerful tools.
During the pandemic’s disruptions to daily life, routines may have felt boring and restrictive. The word “routine” can bring to mind words like mundane or ordinary. As COVID-19 public health measures begin to relax, reflecting on routines and their value is useful when moving toward a ‘new normal.’ (Unsplash/Eric Rothermel)
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