Ritualistic

The word “ritual” somehow brings to my mind

Orthodox practices of a rather primitive kind

Governed by dogma and carried out

By followers of a blind faith devout

Maybe this word I have encountered being used

Only in the context above, therefore I am confused

When “ritual” is used in reference to routine practices everyday

Apparently developing rituals is beneficial in many ways…

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There is thought-provoking research that I read:

When routine activities are performed mindfully instead

Of being performed perfunctorily, what is habitual

Can be transformed into something more meaningful-a ritual

Rituals can imbue our lives with a sense

Of purpose, while bringing pleasure immense

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I believe I have a few “rituals” of my own

I had thought of them as quirks, I had not known

That they could be called my personal rituals indeed

These mindful practices in my daily life I need

To keep me grounded and centered through the day

So I can confidently navigate my way

Through life’s unexpected twists and turns

I can retreat to familiar rituals when the day is done.