Understanding the Challenges of Maintaining a Routine During Quarantine

Many of us find it difficult to maintain strict morning routines during periods of isolation. In quarantine, the lack of external pressures and structured days can lead to irregular sleep patterns, where the temptation to stay in bed late becomes irresistible. This common issue is not only a result of willpower loss but can also be linked to the body's natural need for more rest, especially after a period of stress or imbalance.

For example, in an instance, I had a teenage niece who slept until 1 PM under the warm sunlight. She asked why I allowed her to sleep so late, to which I responded, “It looks like you’re growing; your sleep was intense.” This statement, while simple, reflects the importance of sleep during times of physical and mental growth. Interrupting such deep sleep can indeed take a toll on physical well-being.

However, recognizing the need for rest does not mean giving in to these natural patterns every day. It's important to strike a balance between allowing oneself to recover and maintaining basic structure to start the day.

Strategies to Reclaim Your Morning Routine

One effective strategy is to let your parents help prepare an engaging activity or video for you to participate in as soon as you wake up. The presence of an alarm might initially resist your natural urge to snooze, but it can gradually become a tool for positive habit formation.

Consider the following tips to help make changes more manageable:

Utilize technology wisely: Keep your mobile far from your bed to minimize distractions and impulses to snooze. Instead, set your mobile alarm to a function that automatically turns off your phone; this helps avoid the temptation to reach for your device.

Maintain a routine: On waking, the first step should be to wash your face with hot water. This ritual not only wakes you up but also symbolizes the start of a fresh day.

Create engaging activities: Engage in interesting activities early in the morning, such as watching a short video or checking Instagram stories. These activities can help transition you smoothly into the day.

Stay connected: Use messaging apps to connect with friends or family. This social interaction can provide motivation and a sense of normalcy.

It's important to acknowledge that after a period of sleep deprivation or imbalance, your body might need to catch up. If you have been lacking sleep, it may be beneficial to fill that gap temporarily, allowing your body to recover.

Conclusion: Adapting to a new reality during quarantine doesn't mean abandoning all routines. By leveraging supportive strategies and recognizing the importance of rest, you can reclaim your mornings and start each day with renewed energy and clarity.