Focused Moments: June

As the month of June has arrived and the summer begins for many, it is the perfect time to relook at the evening ritual as the evenings are longer and more activities tend to fill our calendars.

Join me as we explore the importance of an evening ritual.

Terrie

Consistency:

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious. Many of us struggle to find balance and calmness amid our busy schedules. An evening ritual can help you unwind and prepare for a good night’s sleep.

Let’s define what an evening ritual is.

An evening ritual is a set of actions you perform every night before going to bed. It can be anything that calms you: taking a warm bath, practicing yoga, prepping tomorrow’s lunch or outfit, reading, or journaling. The key is to create a routine that helps you prepare for the next day, wind down from the day’s stress, and set the mood for peaceful sleep.

Prepare for the Next Day

By planning your schedule or laying out your clothes for the next day, you can reduce stress and save time in the morning. This can give you a sense of control and ease any anxiety about the day ahead.

Build Healthy Habits

Consistently performing a set of actions helps us establish healthy routines that become second nature over time. This can have a positive impact on other areas of our lives, such as exercise and healthy eating.

Relax and Reduce Stress

Many people feel calm and centered after their evening ritual. Rituals create a sense of order and control to counteract the chaos of our days.

Improve Sleep

Setting aside time to unwind, we signal to our bodies and minds to prepare for rest. This can help us fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake refreshed.

Practice Self-Care

By taking time for our needs, we show ourselves love and care, which can boost our self-esteem and overall well-being. This leads to a positive outlook and improved mental health.

A consistent evening ritual benefits our physical and mental health.

When we take time to relax and prepare for rest, we reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality, practice self-care, and establish healthy habits.

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Clarity:

How can you put this routine into place?

Start by letting your Enneagram Type inform your approach to establishing an evening ritual that fits you.

Here are some evening rituals that can be tailored to each unique type:

Type 1: Type 1s may benefit from a structured and organized evening routine. This could include cleaning up, preparing for the next day, and reflecting on the day’s accomplishments and areas for improvement. Then add a little fun so you can decompress.

Type 2: Take time to care for yourself. Draw a warm bath, diffuse essential oils, read a book, or listen to music that brings you peace. Type 2s will benefit from setting boundaries in the evening by letting others do their own rituals without the Type 2 feeling the need to help everyone and making sure the Type 2’s ritual is not sacrificed.

Type 3: Incorporate goal-setting and planning into your evening routine. Note the day’s successes and set a daily Big Three for tomorrow. After goal-setting, allow time to slow down and meditate.

Type 4: Spend quiet time alone to process the day’s emotions and experiences. Write down any creative ideas or inspirations that came to you throughout the day. Complete a gratitude ritual which can include activities such as writing in a gratitude journal, expressing thanks to others, and practicing mindfulness of gratitude.

Type 5: For Type 5 individuals, incorporating an evening routine that includes reading or learning about a topic of interest can satisfy their intellectual curiosity and provide a sense of fulfillment. Additionally, practicing mindfulness or meditation helps quiet their busy minds, allowing them to find inner calm and mental clarity before bedtime. By striking a balance between intellectual pursuits and cultivating stillness, Type 5s can enhance their overall well-being.

Type 6: Try a self-soothing activity like taking a warm bath, practicing yoga or meditation, or spending time with loved ones. You may also benefit from journaling or talking through worries with a partner or trusted friend.

Type 7: Indulge in a fun, relaxing activity, like watching a movie or playing a game. Reflect on the day’s adventures and plan exciting activities for tomorrow. Practice gratitude or visualization exercises to cultivate a positive mindset.

Type 8: Think back on the day’s challenges and how you handled them. Write down lessons learned and any steps you can take to improve your leadership skills. Enjoy spending time with loved ones or engaging in meaningful discussions.

Type 9: Relax with a warm bath, yoga, meditation, or a good book. Spend quality time with loved ones, or practice self-reflection to identify your needs and desires.

Create your unique evening ritual this week and see how it positively impacts your well-being.

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Community:

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How did the full-focus planner change your habits or productivity?

“I ofent feel overwhelmed and disorganized, while struggling to meet my goals. Incorporated an evening ritual into my day has helped greatly. I take time to wind down and prepare for the next day. I have enjoyed learning to add the rituals through out my day including the evening ritual.” – Amanda R.

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