Simple ways to make time for yourself, even on busy days

You might recognise it when you sit down in the evening and reach straight for your phone, or finish Pilates and start answering emails before you've left the studio. There's always something available to fill the space.

Making time for yourself begins with noticing where you would appreciate more of it. A morning before the messages arrive, a break you can actually enjoy or an evening that feels like your own. Here are three ways to find that room within everyday life.

1. Make your morning ritual your own

How do you like to begin the day when you have the choice? Perhaps with coffee outside, music while you get ready or breakfast by the window.

Keep something of that in your usual morning. It can be tempting to check messages while the kettle boils, but you may prefer having those first few minutes to yourself. Your inbox will be there when you're ready to open it.

Enjoy your morning spoonful of Ocean Gold Sea Moss Gel alongside breakfast, or blend it into your favourite smoothie. Take a seat if you have time and enjoy what you've prepared.

Some mornings will move quickly. Having a familiar ritual gives you something to return to on the days when you can linger. Let it suit your life, including how much time and energy you have that morning.

2. Enjoy a break without filling it

When you're used to being productive, a spare ten minutes can feel like an opportunity. You could reply to a message, organise an appointment or catch up on a podcast.

Sometimes that's exactly what you want to do. Other times, you might appreciate having less to take in.

Try enjoying lunch away from your desk, or taking your coffee outside without bringing work with you. After a class, give yourself time to get changed and head home before checking your inbox. Notice which breaks leave you feeling ready to return to the day.

A few practical choices can help you keep that time. Mute notifications you rarely need, put your phone in your bag during a meal or let someone know when you'll be available. Choose what feels manageable within your responsibilities.

3. Give your evening a clear beginning

Finishing work can be less definite than it used to be, especially when your laptop is also at home. One last email easily becomes another half-hour at the screen.

Before you finish, leave yourself a note about where to pick up tomorrow. Close the laptop and put your work things away where possible. Then move into something you enjoy: change clothes, take a walk or start preparing dinner with music on.

Later, settle on the couch with a book, call a friend or spend time with your partner. You don't have to decide in advance how every evening will unfold.

Some days will leave more room than others. When you have that space, notice what you feel like doing with it. Looking after yourself includes the moments when you can follow your own interests, enjoy your surroundings and feel that your time belongs to you.