Brits are turning everyday routines into rituals to break free of 'autopilot'

A survey of 5,000 adults revealed that 45% are making minor adjustments to their everyday habits, such as playing music, stretching, and taking time to truly enjoy a coffee break. Other tweaks include incorporating a morning walk into the start of the day, or setting aside time to 'review' daily goals.

This shift towards more mindful living comes as 35% confessed they are fed up with the same dull routine day after day. Taking vitamins, watering the plants, and stretching also made the list of new ways they are embracing life more fully.

The study was commissioned by which collaborated with psychologist Jo Hemmings to investigate the power of having rituals.

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She stated: "Incorporating mindful rituals into your day can reset the mind, reduce stress, and improve overall wellbeing. "Routines provide us with structure and stability, which are crucial for our mental wellbeing - but doing the same thing every day without variation can make life feel monotonous. Tiny tweaks can help inject energy and intention into the everyday. "It keeps the brain engaged rather than switching to autopilot."

Most of the nation's key daily rituals occur in the morning (44%) compared to only 9% who indulge in the evening. And as many as 60% admitted they feel 'out of sync' if they don't stick to their usual routines.

While 74% believe these small daily habits can have a long-term impact on someone's wellbeing. And 45% reckon even the smallest disruption to their usual routine can throw off their entire day.

According to the OnePoll.com figures, 73% of coffee drinkers who have daily rituals consider it an essential part of their daily schedule. And 38% even believe they're more able to have deeper and more meaningful conversations over a cup of coffee. While 33% usually pair theirs with breakfast, 23% take the time to use it as a moment for mindfulness or relaxation.

It was also found 49% enjoy a quiet moment to themselves with their coffee, while 32% catch up with friends over one and 30% read a book or newspaper while drinking it.

Gennaro Pelliccia, master of coffee at Costa Coffee, said: "These findings show just how powerful everyday rituals can be - especially when it comes to coffee.

"For many, that daily cup isn't just a habit, it's a grounding moment of calm, connection, and reflection. "Whether it's a quiet pause before the day begins or a conversation shared with a friend, we're proud to be part of the small moments that bring people closer to themselves and those around them."

TOP 30 WAYS BRITS ELEVATE THEIR ROUTINES:

Listen to music

Tidy the house

Take vitamins

Get up to date on the news

Savour a coffee break

Scroll through social media

Spend time with pets

Sit in the sun

Open all the windows to let fresh air in

Morning walks

Read a chapter of a book

Drink a pint of water

Do a skincare routine

Water the plants

Afternoon walks

Evening walks

Write a daily to-do list

Listen to a podcast

Catch up on the previous night’s messages from friends/family

Do stretches

Meet a friend for a coffee

Send a message to family/friends wishing them a good day

Call/text your mum

Review goals for the day

Meditate

Light a candle or use essential oils

Intentional screen breaks

Daily affirmations

Morning mindfulness

Practice yoga