Set Your Morning Table!

It’s Summer!

The sun is [hopefully] shining, the bar-b-que is hot, and the lemonade is cold. Smiles are all around us, and yet…why do we feel sad?

For many, summer can be a challenging time, filled with the memories of the past, and the reality of a future very different than originally planned.

So how does one navigate?

First, it is important to allow our feelings without permitting an inner critic to hijack them.

It is also important to be mindful of the past as a square on our ‘life quilt,’ that is filled with memory and meaning. It is equally important to be mindful that the future might be different than we planned, – and – that difference can, over time, become O.K.

It is directly impacted by how we view it – this current moment – determined by or self-narrative, and individual skillset.

So, let’s make it meaningful!

Let’s look at our day. Perhaps we jump out of bed when the alarm goes off, and we tell ourselves we are ‘hitting the ground running!’ We rush around all day, until we hit the pillow at the end of the day – exhausted.

Creating a morning routine allows for grounding into the day with which we are about to be gifted. Perhaps, upon awakening, rather than jumping out of bed with the alarm, we engage in a body scan and notice how – and what, we are feeling. Moreover, rather than skipping the shower, we might enjoy an aroma therapy shower, or bath with our favorite music. Rather than skipping breakfast, or eating in the car, we might take a few moments [or more] to enjoy a mindful morning meal. Each of these endeavors can ‘set our morning table’ to allow room for a more meaningful, and present moment. Setting the morning table is an important self-care strategy that can establish the tone for our day.

Social engagements can uplift us through hormonal release in the brain. The more we engage, the more uplifted we can be. Try engaging with others in a meaningful way. Volunteer, engage in community service or neighborhood activities. Be a mentor. What a wonderful opportunity to share your wisdom with others who might benefit from your experiences!

For sure, it will be challenging, and the rewards can be significant. This is where neuroplasticity is so important! The more you do the thing…the more you will do the thing! So, perhaps try it for three weeks, or even a month…see what happens…It can help to settle the past, and create pathways for the future!

 © 2025: Donna J Clarke/Integrative Pathways Counseling, LLC. All rights reserved.