From habit to healing ritual - creating rituals of relaxation

The definition of ritual is a ceremonial act or action or an act or series of acts regularly repeated in a set precise manner.

I like to think of rituals as intentional habits. Certain habits can be rather unintentional, like hitting snooze instead of getting up for your meditation. Whereas rituals are a choice to nurture an aspect of yourself, support, or a need.  

If you were to look at your life... what rituals do you have?
What simple acts or actions do you return to regularly?

If you don't have many rituals, or feel you could be more intentional, start with this question:
What are one or more needs that I have, that I feel are not being met?

Some common ones that I hear from folks:

Connection/friendship
Support
Touch
Purpose
Relaxation

Now, to get curious and creative!
What's the most simple thing I can think of to get this need met?
Here are a few examples:

Book an appt with my therapist
Schedule a massage
Read a book about purpose
Take a walk in nature

Now, comb through and refine any answers towards something that feels nurturing for yourself.
What would be possible if I chose just one of these needs to be met consistently, by setting up a ritual?

What would be different in me, if instead of meeting this need once it feels urgent, making it a ritual and a steady anchor to return to?

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With love & gratitude, 

Dr. Jessica