A habit is a behavior that is repeated regularly and often becomes subconscious. For example, brushing your teeth, making your bed, or watering plants are habits.

Routines, similar to habits are also behaviors that are repeated regularly but are a bit more structured, usually more complex, and take more effort than habits.

For example, your morning routine might include making coffee, taking a shower, and getting dressed. Or another example of a routine would be going to the gym every day after work.

Rituals, similar to routines are behaviors performed for a specific purpose. A ritual is a set of actions we regularly perform, but usually with great intention and focus.

Usually, they have a symbolic, spiritual, or emotional meaning, marking special occasions or transitions in our lives. For example, many people have rituals around birthdays or the start of a new year.

Because rituals involve our full attention and subsequently an emotional connection, they can help reduce anxiety and promote feelings of calm and well-being.

Stress is as personal as your coffee order. What triggers you may not trigger others—so what works for them may not work for you. We must personalize our response to stress. We’ll show you how.