• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Cotter Crunch

Cotter Crunch

Delicious Healthy Gluten Free Recipes

  • Recipes
    • By Diet
      • Dairy Free
      • Gluten Free
      • Grain Free
      • Low Carb
      • Vegan
      • Vegetarian
      • Whole 30
    • By Type
      • Breakfasts
      • Casseroles
      • Condiments
      • Desserts
      • Drinks
      • Sides and Salads
      • Slow Cooker & Instant Pot
      • Snacks and Appetizers
      • Stews and Soups
    • Quick Meals
    • Videos
  • Meal Plans
  • Shop
    • Cookbook
    • Favorite Products
    • eBooks
    • Printables
  • About
  • Start Here
Home › FOOD and RECIPES

Letting Go of Routine and Going with the Rhythm

by Lindsay Cotter · 08/28/2014

It’s funny, most people are heading back to school, work, etc. and craving a routine. I get that, I really do. Especially if you have kids.

But for us? We’ve been plowing away at work, training, in the brutal summer heat. It’s at this point when our routine can almost slow us down from that SECOND WIND of dreaming big.

(thank you Tara for the bracelet)

sherpa

We need makes some changes in order to REVIVE ourselves. This includes my husband’s quality of training, our relationship, and for me … a little TLC.

corny cotters

I (we) need to let go of routine.

In fact, we need an UNROUTINE…. to allow things to flow as is, naturally, in harmony.

Which, ironically, is similar to a rhythm. And after reading THIS devotional, I knew we needed to replace routine and embrace a NEW rhythm (temporarily). In fact, it was their definition of rhythm that truly struck a cord with me (pun intended)

Rhythm: a frame of mind that suggests more of an art. If you have rhythm, then whatever you decide to do with intention fits in the dance. Rhythm feels like choice and nuance and paying attention to your surroundings. Rhythm is alive and open to adjustments based on the circumstance. Rhythm focuses on needs.

DSC_3058-652x400

Don’t get me wrong, routine can be good! It’s sooooooo needed during certain seasons of life.

But this season, right now, we need to cling to that second wind. We need to get out of own way, get out of our own routine, and just GO!

photo 2

That being said, our bags are packed for two weeks, the car is fully loaded. Good training awaits, along with a few races. Hoping to visit a few friends, breathe some cool mountain air, and sync into a new rhythm.

photo 1

Thanks Amanda for letting me think out loud today, UNroutinely.

Thinking-Out-Loud2

Are you needing routine or rhythm?

Cheers from the Road!

Sherpa Wife

  • Twitter-@LCCotter
  • Instagram –LCCotter
  • Pinterest– LCCotter
  • Email- cottercrunch@hotmail.com
  • Bloglovin-Cotter Crunch
  • Feed burner –Subscribe Here
  • Crazy Cotters (both our blogs combined) Facebook page.

p.s.

I know you want to bust out in Gloria Estefan lyrics now. Winking smile

11 shares
  • Share
  • Tweet

Tags: triathlon

You May Also Like...

What I learned After Realizing I Wasn’t Going to Meet My Goals
2 Life Happiness Hacks for 2015
Why White Rice Makes a Nice Recovery Food
What To Do When Your BIG Dreams or Goals Feel Stalled
Lindsay Cotter of Cotter Crunch

Hi, y'all, I’m Lindsay Cotter, a Nutrition Specialist with a focus on Gluten Free eating. I love creating delicious nourishing food that anyone can enjoy.

About · Studio · Shop · Contact
Facebook Instagram Pinterest Twitter YouTube

Have a question? Use ctrl+f or ⌘+f on your computer or the “find on page” function on your phone browser to search existing comments!

Reader Interactions

Comments

    Rate & Comment Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  1. Sarah Pie says

    09/07/2014 at 2:57 PM

    I get so sucked into my routine sometimes, it’s good to remember that it’s okay to let things flow. Hope you’re enjoying the time off and the training adventures!

    Reply
  2. Meghan@CleanEatsFastFeets says

    09/01/2014 at 8:10 AM

    Work has been such a crazy place to be lately that when I get home, I embrace rhythm, and sometimes that rhythm includes nothing more than laying on the couch or going to bed super earlier in attempts to recharge my addled brain.
    I hope your two weeks of rhythm traveling is a huge success, and if you find yourself near Ohio, you call me.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      09/01/2014 at 3:03 PM

      yup! i get that. don’t work too hard now

      Reply
  3. Brooke says

    08/31/2014 at 9:20 PM

    Oh, friend. I SOOO love this. For both of us!!
    Hope you all are enjoying your mountain time. I’m thinking lists of TLC is needed for both of you :). Xoxo

    Reply
  4. Jess says

    08/30/2014 at 6:25 PM

    Love this post and Gloria Estefan! I actually feel really stifled with too much routine even though I know sometimes it is so important,

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 7:10 AM

      well since you have twins, i know you need routine for your sanity! haha

      Reply
  5. Bre says

    08/29/2014 at 11:02 PM

    I’ve been working on this myself- letting things go and trying to roll with the punches- find the rhythm and go with it. 🙂 happy training in CO! I hope one day I can come join you!!! it looks so amazing there!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 7:37 AM

      i wish you were here too! what’s next for you?

      Reply
  6. Purelytwins says

    08/29/2014 at 7:58 PM

    we are girls that keep trying to make a routine, but really cannot stick to it. So we are learning to just be more present and go with the flow

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:11 PM

      amen! i knew you could relate. xxoo

      Reply
  7. Laura @ Mommy Run Fast says

    08/29/2014 at 3:09 PM

    What a great definition of rhythm! Yes, an un-routine sounds much needed for you. Enjoy your travels!!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:02 PM

      thanks friend! and enjoy your new routine!

      Reply
  8. Jody - Fit at 56 says

    08/29/2014 at 3:04 PM

    So happy you are packed up & gone to enjoy! Being 56, I know that life flies by way too quickly! You keep saying I will do this & that but you don’t – learn it young my friend!!! HUGS!!!!!!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 1:57 PM

      hugs indeed! gotta live it up while we can

      Reply
  9. Laura says

    08/29/2014 at 1:28 PM

    Oof, I need to reflect on this and get it to really sink in for me. I am ALL about routines and plans and have a really tough time letting go of that… but you’re right that it’s really important to living a healthy, less-stressed life. Thanks for the reminder!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:03 PM

      reflect and get back to me, okay? would love to hear your thoughts!

      Reply
  10. Pavement Runner says

    08/29/2014 at 1:27 PM

    Love to the fam.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:03 PM

      back at ya buddy!

      Reply
  11. jobo says

    08/29/2014 at 11:19 AM

    Adore this message and have this devotional saved to read WEEKLY because I need this reminder constantly! roll with the rhythm, embrace UNroutine sometimes! good luck friend on your weeks of travels xoxo

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:03 PM

      it’s a constant reminder for me too. OOF!

      Reply
  12. Erin @ Her Heartland Soul says

    08/29/2014 at 10:24 AM

    I love this! I want a rhythm more than a routine.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:10 PM

      oh but i think you have a great rhythm!

      Reply
  13. misszippy says

    08/29/2014 at 8:41 AM

    It’s funny: I am a creature of habit, so by definition, you’d think I would crave routine. But now that we are back in the school and soccer routine, I crave those unstructured days we had during our very short summer. I think you make a great argument for rhythm vs. routine.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:04 PM

      we always want what we can have, yes? even with UNroutine/routine. soak up the season we’re in

      Reply
  14. Jennifer F says

    08/29/2014 at 8:07 AM

    Enjoy the time with Kiwi!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:08 PM

      escaping the heat.. you should have come with

      Reply
  15. Chelsea @ Chelsea's Healthy Kitchen says

    08/29/2014 at 7:31 AM

    Love this! I was always a very routine life in university and during internship, and as much as it kept me organized, it also started to feel monotonous and boring. This past month and a half since I finished internship has been all about being out of my routine, and it has been just the break I needed.

    Enjoy your trip girl!!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:10 PM

      good to hear chels!! enjoy

      Reply
  16. Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat says

    08/29/2014 at 6:57 AM

    Girl, AMEN to all of this!! I am a huge creature of habit and thrive on routine, but my recent trip to the west coast was a break from all my routines and it felt absolutely wonderful. Everything just felt amazing – no stress, plenty of laughing, walking around and being outside in the fresh air. Now I just need to find more ways to incorporate it all when I’m back here at home to ride that wave a little longer. Good luck with the training adventures over these coming weeks! 🙂

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:09 PM

      yes, my exact feelings… fresh air and feeling free

      Reply
  17. Arman @ thebigmansworld says

    08/29/2014 at 6:24 AM

    Something i think MANY need to work on- I’m ironically away from ‘routine’- (hi from Melbourne) and it’s actually pretty damn refreshing!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 7:17 PM

      amen to that! cheers mate!

      Reply
  18. jill conyers says

    08/29/2014 at 6:00 AM

    I a recovering routine addict finding balance. Routine has it’s place but when it isn’t necessary I’m ok without it.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 7:18 PM

      well said friend

      Reply
  19. Brittany @ Delights and Delectables says

    08/28/2014 at 11:45 PM

    I thrive on routine, but I do need to let my hair down more and just go with the flow!

    Reply
  20. Katie says

    08/28/2014 at 9:56 PM

    I could write you a novel about this post but I need BOTH, a good balance & I love that quote! Enjoy your adventure 🙂 xo

    Reply
  21. Hayley@healthyregardshayley says

    08/28/2014 at 9:38 PM

    Ah I crave routine almost always, it keeps me focused! But I agree that some times you just need to let go and go, enjoy!

    Reply
  22. Christine @ Love, Life, Surf says

    08/28/2014 at 9:11 PM

    I am a routine person. It helps to set my rhythm. These last few weeks have been very unroutine and I’ve cherished those moments. But at the same time, I feel super ungrounded right now and I think that it’s because of this transition time of year. Or something like that. Enjoy the 2 weeks!

    Reply
  23. She Rocks Fitness says

    08/28/2014 at 4:41 PM

    I love how we are always on the same page…seriously it is kind of weird sometimes! I haven’t been this relaxed in a while and it feels so good and needed. I know I’ll be ready for routine when I head back…or maybe I won’t…HAHA! Come live with me up here every September for a month…it’ll be our “get out of our routine time”. Dream big right?

    Reply
  24. Lisa @ Running Out Of Wine says

    08/28/2014 at 4:16 PM

    I feel so lost without a routine, but I am trying to get better at just going with the flow! It can be so hard but its important to just be able to handle whatever comes at you in life- when things don’t go as planned I tend to freak out and I want to get better at just letting go of control. Have a great trip!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 7:22 PM

      yes, so true friend and well said!

      Reply
  25. Kim says

    08/28/2014 at 3:12 PM

    Have a great trip full of rhythm and life!!!!
    I think that I prefer a mixture of both which is good since no 2 days are ever exactly the same anymore!!!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 7:22 PM

      haha yes, owning a business will do that to you.

      Reply
  26. Linda @ Fit Fed and Happy says

    08/28/2014 at 2:52 PM

    I really like that definition of rhythm!

    Reply
  27. Marcia says

    08/28/2014 at 1:59 PM

    I sat here thinking a break in routine is called vacay in these parts! That said, we’re just settling back into the school routine. Happy travels!

    Reply
  28. Missy says

    08/28/2014 at 1:56 PM

    Have FUN! Rhythm vs Routine? Rhythm wins every time!!

    I love that definition (or elaboration) too. Especially as I am working on re-tuning my body to naturtal circadian RHYTHMS… schedules can REALLY get in the way of that.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 5:13 PM

      yes, i so get that. still working on mine too

      Reply
  29. Amalia says

    08/28/2014 at 1:55 PM

    I really enjoyed this post, and I really enjoyed the quote about routine looking different in every life.
    I am looking forward to my routine coming back — well, a routine coming back. And to trying to keep up with that routine. Last year at school I didn’t have one, and it definitely caught up with me.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 5:15 PM

      rest up friend. yo got this!

      Reply
  30. shashi @ runninsrilankan says

    08/28/2014 at 1:48 PM

    I do need rhythm and routine – but I know how you feel – at the beginning of summer – I so crave an “unroutine” myself 🙂 Safe travels to you both!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 5:16 PM

      i know i’ll crave routine later.. but for now.. unroutine it is! yes

      Reply
  31. Cassie says

    08/28/2014 at 11:54 AM

    I need some rhythm right now. Trying to stay positive with all the craziness going on… but it’s hard!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 7:16 PM

      you can do it! keep me posted

      Reply
  32. Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table says

    08/28/2014 at 11:53 AM

    My mom tried the rhythm method when they were getting preggo with my baby sister. They were trying to have a boy. It didn’t work. This is totally unrelated, but, in going with the Thinking Out Load theme, it’s what the word rhythm brings to mind for me. LOL!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 7:12 PM

      LOL! now i dont want that to happen

      Reply
  33. Megan @ Skinny Fitalicious says

    08/28/2014 at 11:35 AM

    You know I’m such a routine person it used to freak me out when I had to adjust my schedule. Now I just try to go with the flow. Life throws you so many unexpected things and sometimes you just need to roll with it.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 5:13 PM

      i know you’ve had many rolls with the punches this summer! way to adjust!

      Reply
  34. Hilary says

    08/28/2014 at 11:21 AM

    I love this! Just graduating college I am wanting routine but not knowing where life is taking me next I need to let go an just go with the flow! As scary as it is, it is so exciting!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/28/2014 at 1:48 PM

      Enjoy the unroutine for a bit! So needed after college

      Reply
  35. kristin @ W [H] A T C H says

    08/28/2014 at 10:47 AM

    agreed, routine is import. so is freedom.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 5:10 PM

      amen to that kristin

      Reply
  36. Jen @ Chase the Red Grape says

    08/28/2014 at 10:30 AM

    I used to cling on to routine like it was my best friend – I didn’t realise it was my worst enemy in disgusie!
    Since releasing, letting go and going with the flo more, I have found a happier less stressful me and this has reflected in my work and all my relationships in such a positive way.
    Enjoy reviving together and hope you manage to grab some TLC along the way! 🙂

    Reply
  37. Amanda @runtothefinish says

    08/28/2014 at 10:09 AM

    glad we got a moment to catch up, I’m so excited for you!

    Reply
  38. Lauren says

    08/28/2014 at 9:59 AM

    So relevant for me right now. I need rhythm with all this OZ move stuff happening. I have so much to do and my schedule is all over the place until we leave on the 18th. Time to try really hard to stay present and enjoy the moment now and not worry about everything in the future! Easier said than done huh?
    Have a fabulous trip lovely, I hope you get some much needed TLC 🙂 x

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 3:03 PM

      so much easier said than done, but you’ll find that rhythm soon, i know you will. give it time. xxoo

      Reply
  39. Laura @losingrace says

    08/28/2014 at 9:57 AM

    Routine is really helpful but things being mixed up lately has been so good for me. While work has still been routine and steady as we go….social life has been much different than normal, read: I actually have one. I think I dove so hard into working so much after some big life changes this year that the routine was really good for me because it distracted me and kept me occupied. Now that I’m coming out of my shell and feeling more like myself, changing things up has been really nice.I have a good routine of work and even training but still going with the flow on everything else has helped me create a balance I haven’t had before.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:15 PM

      ahh i love that! it’s funny how routines can inhibit us from being social, yes?

      Reply
  40. Megan (The Lyons' Share) says

    08/28/2014 at 9:49 AM

    I couldn’t be more excited for you to get to do this. I truly believe that Colorado heals all … the mountain air is so refreshing, relaxing, and reinvigorating. ENJOY, friend – you deserve it!

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 3:02 PM

      that it does! we need to stay here all summer! and see you

      Reply
  41. Ashley @ My Food N Fitness Diaries says

    08/28/2014 at 9:27 AM

    I’m feeling a little bit of the opposite right now… I feel like schedules have been all over the place the last several months and I’m ready for some routine + “normalcy”! That being said, I’m always trying to practice letting go and going with the flow a bit too. Have a wonderful and safe trip!! xo

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 3:01 PM

      i think it’s different in the summer with little ones, you need that schedule now. for mama’s sake! haha

      Reply
  42. Lucie@FitSwissChick says

    08/28/2014 at 9:20 AM

    Have a wonderful trip! I will send out the goodies when you’re back 🙂
    ENJOY!!

    Reply
  43. Candace @ The Wheatless Kitchen says

    08/28/2014 at 9:03 AM

    You’re so right, it is good to let go sometimes and UNroutine 🙂 I hope you guys have a nice and relaxing couple of weeks!

    Reply
  44. Tara Newman says

    08/28/2014 at 9:02 AM

    I can totally relate. This was me after LP. Our entire August has been dedicated to just being. Hard with kids…they don’t quite understand this concept yet. It has been interesting to see what has emerged – new opportunities, new conversations, new connections, new ways of looking at old things. Although, my routine is always just a framework. I allow a lot of flexibility (again…kids) and grace in our schedule but it is still good to let go of it all. Letting it all go is just one more challenge to overcome on the path of self-growth. Good post love 🙂 And that bracelet looks lovely on your wrist. xoxo

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:15 PM

      i knew you’d get me. you always do. sherpa mind reader

      Reply
  45. Katie @ Talk Less, Say More says

    08/28/2014 at 8:40 AM

    It’s weird for me to think that I”m letting go of the routine soon too…as in the next few days. But quite honestly, sometimes I think it’s what we need to revive ourselves a bit.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 3:00 PM

      you got that right! and i’m so excited for you!

      Reply
  46. Taylor @ LiftingRevolution says

    08/28/2014 at 8:39 AM

    Have a wonderful time! That’s so funny, Dan’s family listens to Gloria E on road trips so I just busted out laughing. xoxo

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/31/2014 at 7:23 PM

      can we get that on video? bahaha

      Reply
  47. Michele @ paleorunningmomma says

    08/28/2014 at 8:13 AM

    Just what I’ve been thinking about lately! I feel better with a routine but I would love to get to the point of being okay and feeling relaxed enough to go with the flow. It’s an ongoing conflict for me and something I hope to be able to do more of.

    Reply
    • LCCotter says

      08/30/2014 at 2:14 PM

      you’ll get there, maybe after your training and racing has passed, take that break

      Reply
  48. Tina Muir says

    08/28/2014 at 8:07 AM

    I love routine, but I am learning to let things happen right now too. It is tough, and I definitely understand your lifestyle, and how it cannot all be planned out. I go through that too, but I am glad you are getting away. Have a WONDERFUL time!!!

    Reply
    • CARLA says

      08/29/2014 at 6:42 AM

      LOVE THIS as I used to be hardcore routine.
      until marriage
      and a child
      now Im a laidback rhythm gurl and far happier

      Reply
      • LCCotter says

        08/30/2014 at 2:09 PM

        i get that.. and your rhythm is set perfect

        Reply

Primary Sidebar

Lindsay Cotter of Cotter Crunch

Hi, y'all, I’m Lindsay Cotter, a Nutrition Specialist with a focus on Gluten Free eating. I love creating delicious nourishing food that anyone can enjoy.

About · Studio · Shop · Contact
Facebook Instagram Pinterest Twitter YouTube

Reader Favorites

  • photo collage of dairy-free gluten-free anti-inflammatory meal plan recipes
    Anti-Inflammatory Meal Plan {Dairy Free, Gluten-Free Recipes & Tips}
  • cinnamon bites in bowl - no bake protein bites
    Cinnamon Vanilla Protein Breakfast Bites + Video
  • bowl of vegan kale soup with curried vegetables
    Curried Cauliflower Rice Kale Soup {Vegan, Whole30}
  • gluten free roux pin
    How to Make Gluten Free Roux for Keto Sauces + Soups
  • stack of dried orange slices on white background
    Dried Orange Slices (Oven or Dehydrator)
  • overhead photo: cranberry balsamic chicken on a baking sheet with serving spoon
    Cranberry Balsamic Roasted Chicken {Paleo} + VIDEO
Cotter Crunch
Facebook
Instagram
Pinterest
Twitter
YouTube
About · Studio · Shop · Contact

Recipes by Diet

  • Dairy Free
  • Gluten Free
  • Grain Free
  • Low Carb
  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian
  • Whole 30

Recipes by Type

  • Breakfasts
  • Casseroles
  • Desserts
  • Drinks
  • Main Dishes
  • Sides & Salads
  • Snacks & Appetizers

More

  • Meal Plans
  • Quick Meals
  • Recipes with Video
  • Recipe Round Ups
  • Recipes
  • Meal Plans
  • Shop
  • About
  • Start Here

Copyright © 2022 · Cotter Crunch · Disclaimer & Terms · Privacy Policy

11 shares