Few things are more routine than our daily (or twice-daily) showers. So why not put a new spin on it?

Try showering with your eyes closed. That’s totally closed — no peeking!

Keeping your eyes closed will allow your other senses to kick into gear and force you to approach this seemingly-mundane task in a whole new way. This is a great way to change up your day and relax, all at the same time.

This exercise may sound silly, but it’s actually suggested by scientists to stimulate your brain and improve mental clarity! Figuring out where the shampoo bottle is (or how to shave your legs without missing a spot) without being able to look allows your mind to flex its problem-solving muscles.

(Photo by Norma*iriz*.)

Liven up a boring chore with a little color!

Today, toss out those dull yellow gloves you keep under the sink and replace them with a more colorful pair — pink, perhaps?

Where else might a little color shake things up?

(Photo by rubberglovelover.)

Every day, you’re at the coffee shop ordering the same old thing. Why not try something new?

The next time you’re in line, ask the barista to surprise you with any coffee on the menu … her pick. (If she seems hesitant, ask her to make her favorite; in my experience they’re usually quite willing to shake things up for you!)

What’s the worst that can happen? You try a new coffee flavor, and you don’t like it — then you can go back and get your original preference. But more than likely, you might discover that you like that new syrup / blend / tea just fine, and you’ve added to your future caffeination options.

(I’ve had both experiences when asking to be surprised … I fell in love with vanilla soy lattes at a Tully’s in downtown Seattle, but I still remember the Orange Creme Frappucino at a Starbucks in Twin Falls, Idaho that tasted like Triaminic — blech.)

If you usually drink flavored or blended coffees, you should try it black! It’s admittedly an acquired taste, but once you’ve powered through the first few weeks, you’ll leave the creams — and the associated calories — at the coffee bar.

(Photo by Ahmed Rabea.)