If our pandemic year has taught us anything, it’s the importance of taking care of ourselves, both physically and mentally. Part of that is keeping up routines that help us realize our best selves. In Ayurveda, these daily rituals and practices are called dinacharya (in Sanskrit, dina means day and charya, routine) and are believed to support our overall health and wellness.

“Every human has an internal clock running in the background that carries out all the essential processes and functions at a proper time, very similar to nature, which follows the pattern of day and night, seasonal changes, tidal rhythms, and moon cycles,” says Hrishikesh Ashok, chief Ayurveda consultant at Naad Wellness in New Delhi, India. “Ayurveda recommends a routine of morning and nighttime practices collectively known as dinacharya, to maintain this connection between us and the circadian rhythms of nature”

After a year spent indoors, working from home, isolated from friends and family, with empty social calendars, it’s safe to say that much of our dinacharya have gone out the window. This has left many people struggling with physical symptoms, sleeplessness, anxiety, and a loss of purpose. 

The good news is that you can start anew at any time—even this weekend! Here is a simple, yet effective schedule of Ayurvedic rituals to start incorporating into your day. 

See also: Why Silence Should Be Part of Your Daily Routine

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