Five Ways to Incorporate Wellness Practices in Your Day
According to the Global Wellness Institute, wellness is described as the active pursuit of activities, choices and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health. Wellness can include a focus on physical, mental, emotional, social, environmental, and spiritual systems of overall well-being. These practices aim to incorporate health into our everyday state of mind and body.
Why is wellness important even if you're in good health?
Physical and mental health conditions often lead to visits with doctors and mental health professionals for diagnosis and treatment. Yet, these two factors alone are not the only influence over our general well-being and happiness. For this reason, wellness encourages healthy decision making in your personal life that allows you to thrive every day.
Wellness does not look the same for everyone.
The ways in which you intentionally reduce stress and make healthy choices depends on individual preferences. For example, diet and physical exercise look different between one person and the next. External influences such as where you live and work also impact your wellness and implementing practices that work for you. Here are five ways that you can reduce stress and promote wellness in your everyday life.
Practicing Mindfulness!
Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not become overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around us. Mindfulness is not limited to meditation, but can be applied to any activity, chore, or task. It raises overall fulfillment in your activities by drawing your attention to the mind and body that allow you to get things done. You can practice mindfulness during everyday duties such as your drive to and from work, eating a meal, or washing your face. If you find that physical activity is peaceful, you could try yoga or taking a jog through your neighborhood.
Socialize!
Surrounding yourself with people that you trust and love can turn a frustrating day into a good day, and a good day into a great one! Actively engaging with others reward you with new perspectives, a chance to increase your mood, and the opportunity to express yourself.
Social interaction also puts you in the position to reflect on yourself, become a better listener, and strengthen relationships within your community. This can be as simple as asking someone for help or planning a vacation with family. You can go out to dinner with friends, start a group chat with people with similar interests, or attend an event you’ve been wanting to go to. Practice getting out of your social comfort zone by joining a club you’re interested in and pursuing new friendships.
Get Some Rest!
According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, most adults will need 7 hours or more for a good night's sleep. Sleepiness most directly affects learning abilities, alertness, and mood. I’ve certainly been the victim of staying up too late watching TikTok and then struggling not to fall asleep in the front row of a 9 a.m class. Starting off the day on the wrong side of the bed can put a damper on even the most exciting activities and interactions with other people. Ensuring that you get enough rest allows you to stay alert and present, more equipped to accomplish goals, and retain much more energy throughout the day. To encourage better sleep habits, establish a sleep schedule, keep mobile devices away from the bed at night, and set aside time for short naps.
Self-Care!
Issues with stress begin to take a toll on the physical body which can in turn influence your image of self. Self-care involves activities that promote your overall physical health and or appearance. This may be treating yourself to a healthy meal, doing your hair, taking care of your skin, coloring, or just spending time watching a movie. Whatever you choose to do, self-care is about appreciating all of the things you do to make yourself feel well. Some of the things I like to do include stretching daily, cooking dinner, and getting my nails done!
Get Creative!
Taking time out of my day a few times a week to do something creative is one of my favorite ways to reduce stress. Other than catching my favorite TV shows on Sunday, I’m probably the most dedicated to doing something creative any chance I get. Getting creative allows you to focus your attention on a task. Plus, it not only can be inspiring and rewarding, but it helps with healing. Art therapy is one way to manage emotions, relieve stress, and reduce anxiety. This can look like drawing, painting, coloring, or writing.
Creativity is wide ranging and is not limited to having artistic abilities. Cooking, woodworking, and creating new spaces are also therapeutic. Try out a new recipe, rearrange your spice cabinet, or update the look of a room. Whether you start a new hobby or renew your passion for something you already enjoy, getting creative keeps energy at the tip of your fingers!
Breana Alston is a student at Virginia Commonwealth University studying criminal justice and psychology. Her passion for these concepts influences her to utilize her voice to expose institutionalized racism and promote social equality for marginalized people.