MORNING
Engage in morning intimacy
Marianne Johnson, a therapist specializing in relationships and psychosexual issues, suggests that morning is an ideal time for intimate activities. Although practical issues may arise for those with young children or living with their parents, engaging in morning sex has various benefits. Research shows that recent sexual activity improves the body’s stress response, boosts energy levels, and increases oxytocin levels, leading to feelings of bonding, trust, and relaxation. If the opportunity arises, seizing the moment for morning intimacy can be a great way to start the day. Alternatively, individuals can schedule it for a time when they know they will have privacy, much like planning a nice meal out.
Start writing a novel
According to writer Linda Grant, most writers agree that the morning is the best time to begin writing a novel. This is because shortly after waking up, individuals are close to the dream state before the rationality of the day takes over with mundane concerns. Grant personally wakes up at around 7:30 am and starts writing at around 8:30 am for two to three hours. She believes that the unconscious mind and imagination need to be fully active during this early period.
Have a meaningful conversation
Psychotherapist and author Philippa Perry suggests having important or difficult conversations on a Sunday morning during breakfast. At this time, individuals are typically refreshed, have enjoyable activities planned for the day, and view the conversations as interesting rather than difficult. The key is to avoid framing things negatively and focus on the positive aspects of the conversation.
Keep a journal
Author Kara Cutruzzula, known for “Do It for Yourself,” recommends journaling immediately upon waking up to maximize its benefits. Taking just 10 minutes to set intentions for the day and jotting down doubts or anxieties can help create a purposeful mindset. Early morning journaling also helps individuals avoid the “dread umbrella” feeling that something needs to be done later in the day without actually doing it.
See a therapist
Psychoanalyst Anouchka Grose believes that the best time to see a therapist is at 9 am. Both the client and the therapist are likely to feel relatively fresh during this time and are more likely to remember dreams. Additionally, the therapist is not yet desensitized or fatigued from other peoples’ traumas, allowing for a more attentive and unbiased session. Seeing a therapist earlier than 9 am risks potential resentment due to fatigue.
Clean the house
Aggie MacKenzie, a broadcaster known for her expertise in cleaning, recommends doing housework early in the day. If someone enjoys cleaning, they can do it at any time, but if they find it unpleasant, doing it as early as possible can help get it over with. Setting a time limit or deadline can also help maintain productivity without eating up too much of the day.
AFTERNOON
Go on a date
According to relationship coach Vicki Pavitt, daytime dates offer flexibility and a lighter atmosphere. Late morning coffee dates, lunch outings, or early afternoon walks in nature can be enjoyable and time-limited. If the conversation isn’t flowing, it’s easier to end the date, but if it’s going well, there’s room to continue or plan the next date. Flexibility is key in daytime dating.
Take a nap
Sleep coach Camilla Stoddart suggests timing naps during the mid-afternoon slump when energy levels are typically lowest, around 3 pm for most people. This downtime is part of the natural circadian rhythm and can benefit cognitive function and overall alertness for the rest of the day. Keeping the nap short, around 20 minutes, ensures it doesn’t interfere with nighttime sleep.
Do homework
Teacher Lola Okolosie recommends finding the sweet spot between coming home from school, taking a short break, and having dinner to do homework. This time allows for a quick transition from relaxation to a focused mindset for homework. It’s important not to delay homework until later in the evening, as it can become a dreaded task that individuals tend to put off. Additionally, reducing screen time as the evening progresses can help maintain healthy sleep patterns.
EVENING
Cleanse your face
Beauty columnist Sali Hughes emphasizes the importance of cleansing your face twice a day, with particular emphasis on removing sunscreen, makeup, and outdoor dirt before bedtime. However, this evening skincare routine can feel like a chore when one is tired and disinclined. Hughes advises cleansing as soon as one arrives home from work to maintain consistency. Taking off the outside world upon returning home can be a refreshing and motivating start to an effective skincare routine.
Water plants
Gardening columnist Alice Vincent prefers watering plants in the evening to avoid wasting water if it rains later in the day. Midday watering can lead to evaporation before reaching the plant’s roots. Vincent recommends watering deeply and less frequently to encourage deeper root growth, allowing plants to withstand dry periods. Environmentally conscious gardeners should consider planting drought-resistant species or selecting plants that can draw water from the soil.
Appreciate art
Guardian art critic Jonathan Jones suggests visiting galleries or museums in the evening. This time offers a different ambiance, as art seems to transform and become more comfortable in the subdued lighting. In well-lit galleries, the subtle changes in shade and color add to the intrigue. Enjoying art in the evening should be seen as a pleasure rather than an obligation.
NIGHT
Bake a cake
Baker Kim-Joy believes that baking is best done at night for those who prefer a calmer and quieter environment. With fewer distractions and stimuli, one can focus more clearly and let their creativity flow. The relaxed atmosphere of the night enhances the baking experience.
Read a book
Author Damian Barr suggests that the evening is the perfect time to indulge in novels and stories. The quiet ambiance and lack of noise allow for undisturbed reading. Barr personally enjoys reading late at night by lamplight, but not in bed to prevent falling asleep. The silence and stillness of the wee hours intensify the enjoyment of whatever book is being read.
Listen to music
Rock and pop critic Alexis Petridis believes that music sounds better at night. The absence of ambient noise and sensory distractions, along with an increase in melatonin, can enhance the perception of music. The night becomes a time of heightened musical immersion and appreciation.