If you've ever felt like you're constantly "falling off" your wellness routine — or that consistency feels amazing for a week and then completely unsustainable — this episode is for you.

In today's conversation, we're reframing the pressure-filled idea of routines and exploring a softer, more supportive approach: rituals. Many wellness routines are built around rigidity, productivity, and perfection, which can actually create more stress than support. Rituals, on the other hand, are intention-driven, emotionally rewarding, and adaptable — making consistency feel nourishing instead of confining.

This episode isn't about doing more. It's about doing what actually supports your nervous system, your season of life, and your capacity.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• The key differences between routines and rituals

• Why rigid routines often trigger all-or-nothing thinking, guilt, and burnout

• How rituals support nervous system regulation and long-term consistency

• Why discipline without reward isn't sustainable

• How flexibility can actually strengthen your wellness habits

• Examples of reframing common wellness routines into meaningful rituals

• Simple questions to help you create rituals that feel supportive, not pressuring

You'll Hear Us Talk About:

• Letting go of the "if I can't do it perfectly, I won't do it at all" mindset

• Why wellness shouldn't feel like another job

• How rituals can serve as grounding anchors during busy or stressful seasons

• Creating habits based on how something feels — not how it looks on a checklist

Reflection Prompt for the Week:

What's one rigid routine you can release — and what's one simple ritual you can return to when life feels full?

If this episode resonated, please share it with someone who might need permission to soften their approach to wellness. And don't forget to follow, rate, and review The Empowered Wellness Project — it truly helps us reach more listeners.

Questions, feedback, and future show ideas can be sent to us at [email protected].

Want to Work With Us — or Join the Membership?

For just $5/month, you can become part of The EWP Community and receive:

• Exclusive content

• Customized workouts

• Recipe drops

• Opportunities for live one-on-one coaching

• And so much more

Click the link to join and be part of the fun.

Connect With Us:

Lauren Brown Instagram: @settingthepacenj Website

Amanda Gargiulo Instagram: @amanda.gargiulo Website

Follow us on YouTube: Empowered Wellness Project

Additional Support:

Breast cancer thriver or caretaker looking for support? Check out Amanda's FREE guide: 5 Key Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence

Edited by Bold Media Films