daily routine
striking a balance between structure and spontaneity
as i get older, i realize that i need a better sense of structure to maintain the type of healthy discipline required to pursue things that matter to me. perhaps this falls in line with the boundary work i’ve been doing, but i’ve been feeling much more grounded since sticking to a (loose) schedule throughout the week.
i don’t like to put too much pressure on myself, so while i have the structure of a routine, i don’t always put emphasis on having tasks done by a certain time code. i’m allowing things to happen in their own divine timing. becoming more mindful to be present and savor each experience as it happens — and not try to rush to the next.
one of my guiding lights has been beginning my day with a form of personal meditation. i typically start off by thanking the universe once i open my eyes and shortly after, i will play music to get things started. i’ve even set a goal to hit the treadmill a few days out of the week right upon waking, when i don’t have too much time to ruminate over it. truthfully, these days fill me with energy and momentum the most.
i also consider bathing and applying my skincare routine to be forms of meditation — even taking time in between each step for deep breaths. before showering, i use a dry brush i got from Biossance to exfoliate my skin. while i enjoy the energetic rush this gives me, i would not recommend dry brushing to anyone with skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis. following the shower, i apply Biossance’s squalane oil. the combination of the exfoliation and the oil leaves my skin feeling super soft.
then, i begin my facial routine. currently, my skin is in recovery after overuse of chemical exfoliants left me with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). so i’ve had to baby my skin and reduce the amount of steps i was doing. here are some items i’m loving right now.
Tower 28 SOS Daily Facial Rescue Spray — i use this after cleansing and before applying my serum(s). it’s also great for soothing inflammation or redness throughout the day. i went through the trial size in less than a week and promptly bought the full size.
Kitsch Ice Roller — handy for reducing inflammation and giving yourself a gentle facial massage. i use this after serums.
Black Girl Sunscreen — i had to try this after hearing so many rave reviews and i cannot say enough good things about it. the texture, the smell, the lack of white cast; i’m here for it!
Rae Wellness Vegan Collagen Boost Powder — since i started taking this daily, i’ve noticed that the texture of certain facial scars is no longer as prominent. i often mix this supplement with water, amla berry powder, frozen sea moss, and homemade flower essences (my morning health cocktail).
most influential has been actually writing these things down! i do a facial mask once a week and it’s on my calendar, as are the treadmill days and work meetings and therapy. to that point, this astrological planner i received in a giveaway has been influential in keeping me aware of how the planets are interacting each day. it’s also very important for me to spend time outside in the sun or simply to get fresh air on overcast days.
outside of these staple activities, i allow myself to write, study, enjoy meals, and indulge in media with less rigidity for a sense of balance.
how do you stay grounded and balanced throughout your days and weeks? feel free to comment and let me know!
