I think there is a real variance in the meaning of the word 'routine'. And i sometime think there is a bit of a stigma attached to the word. But i think you can use a routine and still practice gentle parenting.You don't have to be one of those people who have a routine that runs their life. Overall i've found that my girls respond best to a little structure in their day so that's what we aim for.
Nicely put Junglemum!

We started on that routine, but quickly found that it didn't suit our life, so we took what was useful from it, like recognising sleep cues, making sure DS is comfortable sleeping in car or pram and then we go about our normal day with the same bedtime each night. For us, I think it helps having different times each day, so he's not anxious when our 'everyday' changes.