by Melanie VanderPol-Bailey, MSW, Licensed Certified Social Worker - Private Independent Practice

“Good morning, Good morning, Good morning

Watch, now, how I start the day, in happiness, in kindness”.  

-Mary Oliver

 When was the last time you paused to consider your morning routine and how it may or may not be working for you?  A good routine is a process of habit formation which can produce better mental health and sleep patterns.  It allows us to begin the day with intention.  It creates opportunity and choice on how the day goes.  But let’s face it; some days, some seasons of life, or some of our personality types can make mornings feel hectic and even unpleasant.

 Whether you tend to be alert when the rooster crows or more like a diesel on a South Dakota January morning, there may be things you can do to make the start of your new day more tolerable and maybe even enjoyable. 

 Research shows that grabbing your phone, scrolling through new feeds, emails and texts can spike our cortisol (stress) levels.  Instead of allowing your device or the early morning news to influence you, consider what you would like to expose your brain and body to.  

 Think about these four areas and how you want to begin your day: 1) mentally, 2) emotionally, 3) physically, 4) spiritually.  What can you do each and every day to honor these areas?  Be realistic.  If it takes you a while to warm up in the morning, it may be more lifegiving to take extra time the night before to prepare for the day ahead.  Consider a routine that fits your life for this season.  Make time for mental, emotional, physical and spiritual self-care.   

At River Counseling Services and Sioux Falls Psychological Services we meet you where you are, offering hope.  We can help you figure out how to start your day well.  Sometimes that means dealing with the depression or anxiety or relationship problems you find yourself mired in.  You may schedule an appointment with the Platte office at 605-337-3444, or meet with one of our Sioux Falls Psychological Services therapists from your own computer or smartphone.  To schedule an appointment please call 605-334-2696.