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Feb 23, 20234 min read

Creating Healthy Habits

Updated: Jun 7, 2023

The Role of a Routine in Dance and Everyday Life for Improved Well-being and Productivity

Ignite Dance WA

Two ballet dancers on stage in an arabesque en pointe with arms in 4th position wearing black leotards and skirts.
Image: Stage Capture Photography, 'Premiere', Ignite Dance WA 2021 End of Year Performance

As human beings, we are creatures of habit. We thrive on routine and structure in our lives. Having a routine helps us to establish a sense of normalcy, and this is especially true in the world of dance.


Before diving into the importance of setting and sticking to a routine, it is important to first define what a routine is. A routine can be described as a set of activities or behaviours that are performed regularly and in a consistent manner (Routines and Meaning in Life). These activities can range from small tasks such as brushing teeth to larger, more complex tasks such as practising dance routines.


There has been much discussion about the benefits of routines in school, dance and life in general. While some may view routines as limiting or boring, others recognise the value of having structure and consistency in their daily lives. Research has shown that having a routine can help individuals develop self-discipline, reduce stress, and improve their overall well-being. (The Importance of Creating Habits and Routine).


Let’s discuss what this means…


The Importance of Routine in Dance


In the world of dance, routine is everything. From the moment a dancer wakes up in the morning to the time they go to bed at night, everything is planned out. This structure enables them to master their craft, day after day. Without a routine, a dancer can quickly become disorganized and overwhelmed, leading to a decline in performance.


When a dancer establishes a routine, they are setting themselves up for success. By sticking to a schedule, they are giving themselves the time and space they need to practice their moves, perfect their technique, and work on their stamina. Additionally, by incorporating healthy habits such as stretching, eating well, and getting enough rest, a dancer can keep their body in peak condition and prevent injury.



The Importance of Routine Outside of Dance


While routine is critical in the world of dance, it is equally important in life in general.


For students, having a routine can help them to manage their time effectively and reduce stress. By establishing a set time for studying, completing assignments, and getting enough rest, they can avoid cramming for exams or pulling all-nighters, both of which can have a negative impact on their performance.


For working professionals, having a routine can help them to manage their workload and achieve a better work-life balance. By setting aside time for exercise, hobbies, and spending time with family and friends, they can reduce stress and improve their overall well-being.


For parents, having a routine can help them to manage the demands of caring for children and running a household. By establishing a set schedule for meal times, playtime, and nap time, they can create a sense of structure and predictability for their children, which can be beneficial for both parent and child.



Two young contemporary dance students in a back bend and holding hands in the middle of a dance studio. The students are wearing a blue leotard with black pants.
Image: Ignite Dance WA contemporary dance students

Tips for Establishing and Sticking to a Routine

  1. Start small: Begin by setting small, achievable goals, such as waking up at the same time each day or setting aside time for exercise. Once you have established these habits, you can build on them over time.

  2. Be consistent: Stick to your routine as closely as possible. Consistency is key to establishing a routine and making it a habit.

  3. Get organized: Use a planner or calendar to keep track of your schedule and ensure that you are allocating enough time for all of your tasks and activities.

  4. Be flexible: While routine is important, it is also important to be flexible and make adjustments when necessary. Life is unpredictable, and sometimes things don't go according to plan. Be willing to adapt and make changes to your routine as needed.


Troubleshooting: My Routine Isn't Working!


While routines can be incredibly beneficial, there may be times when your current routine is not working for you. Perhaps you find yourself feeling stressed or overwhelmed, or maybe you're not seeing the progress you had hoped for. In these situations, it may be time to reevaluate your routine and make some adjustments.


The first step is to identify the specific areas where your routine is not working. Are you trying to fit too much into your schedule? Are you struggling to stay motivated during certain tasks? Once you have identified the problem areas, you can begin to make changes. This may involve rearranging your schedule to create more time for important tasks, breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, or finding new ways to stay motivated and engaged.




By creating structure and consistency in our daily lives, we can improve our overall well-being, achieve our goals, and develop self-discipline. However, it's important to remember that routines are not one-size-fits-all and may require adjustments from time to time. By taking the time to reevaluate our routines and make changes as needed, we can ensure that we're getting the most out of our daily habits. Don't be afraid to make changes as needed and be open to trying new approaches until you find a routine that works best for you.


An ensemble of ballet students on stage kneeling with their arms in an open position. Dancers are wearing a black leotard and a black tutu with pointe shoes.

Image: Stage Capture Photography, 'Symmetry', Ignite Dance WA 2022 End of Year Performance

 

Sources

(Accessed 22/02/2023)


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