Whether you’re a full-time working parent, an overloaded student, or simply working on defining the next chapter of your life, finding intentional time to be outside between daily events can prove challenging. In the US, the average person spends 87% of their time in enclosed buildings and another 6% in vehicles, leaving a measly 7% of outdoors time (Student Conservation Association, 2017). 7% of our outdoors time is unfortunately mostly composed of short-lived transitions between vehicles and buildings. Furthermore, following the COVID-19 pandemic, many once office-based workers have transitioned into remote positions; increasing the percentage of indoor time as travel to-and-from work decreases. Currently, 66% of Americans work from home at least part-time, and it’s projected that by the year 2025, 36.2 million Americans will be working remotely full-time (Flynn,2023). With this in mind, how do we fit in time to be outdoors with such busy schedules? Why even bother?

Give Yourself a Boost

If you feel unfocused, fatigued, or stuck, it may stem from a lack of movement and intentional time outside! Spending time outside daily improves our body and mind’s stress recovery, and refreshes us so we may have longer attention spans (Avitt, 2021). You can start improving your wellbeing without outdoors time at any point, however, it has been found that the earlier you begin getting yourself outside the better. Researchers in Denmark conducted a study on 900,000 children ranging from birth to the age of 10 years old. After 18 years of conducting this study, the researchers found that children who were less exposed to time outside in green spaces were 55% more likely to develop mental health strife in adulthood than those who grew up frequently spending time outdoors (Weir, 2020).

Relational Improvement

Spending times outdoors also has the power to better our relationships. Spending time outdoors has been correlated with increased empathy and bonding with others. In a study where green initiatives were implemented in neighborhoods, the residents reported not only having a 41% decrease in depression, but a change in interactions with their neighbors as well (Avitt, 2021). The residents stated there was an increase in positive interactions between them and their neighbors as compared to their interactions prior to the green initiative. Wilderness couple’s therapist Jeff Adorador has found that spending routine time outside with your significant other can prompt stronger cooperation, intimacy and communication within your relationship ( Kwak-Hefferan, 2023).

Furthermore, the outdoors can also improve connectivity for those who are sometimes overstimulated by the task of connecting with other people. Environmental psychologist Matthew White, in a study of people who experience social anxiety, found that one’s desire to connect could be quelled by spending time outdoors (Wier, 2020). White explained, “There are people who don’t necessarily want to spend their time with others, but they feel connected to the natural environment, and that can enhance their well-being.”

How and Where

As psychologists, social workers, environmentalists, and sociologist continue to study the correlation between human health and the outdoors, there’s no set-in-stone recommendation on how often one needs to be outside to reap wholistic benefits to their health and wellbeing. While experts have found the greener (fauna and flora) and bluer (marine spaces) spaces are the higher quality environments for mental restoration (Wier,2020), it has also been proven that increasing your outdoor time, in even in urban spaces, brings more mental stability (Student Conservation Association, 2017). People who increased their time outside by 2 hours a week, whether consecutively or spread out, felt an increase in wellness and motivation (Avitt,2021). Begin forming the habit of being outside by scheduling just 20 minutes every day. Other ways to motivate yourself to get outside hours include: joining a hiking group, designing a more thorough walking schedule for you and your furry friends, signing up for a community gardening project, going on walking dates with friends, planning date nights as a bike ride to a restaurant nearby, or planning some of your weekend meals as picnics!

References

Avitt, A. (2021, March 24). The wellness benefits of the great outdoors. US Forest Service. https://www.fs.usda.gov/features/wellness-benefits-great-outdoors#:~:text=There%20are%20many%20mental%20wellness.

Kwak-Hefferan, E. (2023, April 6). How Time in Nature Can Improve Your Relationship. Outside Online. https://www.outsideonline.com/health/wellness/nature-time-relationship/.

Student Conservation Association. (2017, December 11). How Going Outside Improves Our Mood and Health Even in Winter. Student Conservation Association. https://www.thesca.org/connect/blog/how-going-outside-improves-our-mood-and-health-even-winter/?gclid=CjwKCAjw-b-kBhB-EiwA4fvKrCwFZ22WaNodVUmcyJMrWsNXwWE4YSW2jOzgMAx1o6cX9CaYURKhdRoCBE4QAvD_BwE.

Weir, K. (2020, April 1). Nurtured by nature. American Psychological Association, 51(3). https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurtured-nature.

In my last blog post, I shared an overview of 7 Tips to Move Towards Well-Being, that work together in a holistic, connected way to create a healthy, optimized life. I began my work within each dimension hoping to feel better and more balanced, though I sometimes found myself overwhelmed by the information. I continued reading and researching so I could better understand each dimension. In this blog post you’ll find a short summary of the 8 Dimensions of Wellness. As you read, reflect on which dimensions feel like strengths and which areas could be improved. To help you with this, I have provided a link to an 8 Dimensions of Wellness assessment in the references below.

People often think about wellness in terms of physical health, nutrition, exercise, and weight management, but it’s so much more than that. Wellness is an integration of physical, mental, and spiritual well-being that fuels the body, engages the mind, and nurtures the spirit. Wellness is about maintaining mental and physical fitness and having enough energy to meet your occupational and personal commitments. The Global Wellness Institute (n.d.) describes it as “the active pursuit of activities, choices, and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health.” By increasing your understanding of, reflecting on, and nurturing each of these dimensions, you can achieve growth and a higher quality of life.

Like any system where multiple components work together, attending to each of the dimensions will result in overall health and a balance in life, but often one or more dimensions will fall out of balance. We have all experienced a financial setback causing emotional stress or forcing a change to our environment, or we have experienced a loss of a loved one or a job impacting our emotional, financial, intellectual and/or social wellness. So many events, outside of our control, can take life out of balance.

Wellness involves a sense of empowerment. Every day represents a new set of choices. Remember, achieving Wellness is an ongoing journey rather than a destination. By making small intentional choices in each dimension, we can strive for a harmonious life that promotes physical vitality, emotional resilience, intellectual growth, and a deep sense of fulfillment. In which dimensions did you find strengths? Which dimensions seem “okay?” And which dimensions can use some focus?

References:

Personal Assessment: 8 Dimensions of Wellness 

What is Wellness? Global Wellness Institute. (2021, September 3). https://globalwellnessinstitute.org/what-is-wellness/ 

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2016, April 28). The Eight Dimensions of Wellness. Retrieved from http://www.samhsa.gov/wellness-initiative/eight-dimensions-wellness 

Stoewen D. L. (2017). Dimensions of wellness: Change your habits, change your life. The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne, 58(8), 861–862. 

The concept of wellness goes beyond physical well-being. It encompasses various interconnected aspects of an individual’s life. Here I’ll share how therapists can assist individuals in cultivating a balanced and fulfilling life by nurturing each dimension of wellness. Below I present the 8 dimensions of wellness: emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, physical, environmental, financial, and occupational.

Emotional Wellness:

Emotional wellness involves understanding and managing our feelings effectively. Therapists help clients explore their emotions, develop emotional intelligence, and learn healthy coping strategies. Through techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices, therapists can guide clients in processing emotions, reducing stress, and improving overall emotional well-being.

Intellectual Wellness:

Therapists can support intellectual wellness by encouraging clients to engage in lifelong learning, stimulating their minds, and exploring new interests. This may involve setting personal goals, pursuing educational opportunities, and developing critical thinking skills. Therapeutic discussions can also help clients challenge negative thought patterns and enhance problem-solving abilities.

Social Wellness:

Maintaining healthy relationships and fostering a sense of belonging are crucial aspects of social wellness. Therapists assist clients in developing communication skills, setting boundaries, and enhancing social connections. Group therapy sessions can be particularly beneficial in providing a supportive and understanding community.

Spiritual Wellness:

Spiritual wellness involves finding meaning and purpose in life, whether through religion, nature, or personal beliefs. Therapists can help clients explore their spirituality, connect with their values, and develop a sense of inner peace and acceptance.

Physical Wellness:

Therapists play a vital role in promoting physical wellness by encouraging clients to adopt healthy lifestyle habits. This may include regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep. By addressing body image issues and supporting clients in developing positive self-care routines, therapists can contribute significantly to physical wellness.

Environmental Wellness:

Environmental wellness involves understanding and nurturing the connection between individuals and their surroundings. Therapists can guide clients in creating a healthy and sustainable living environment, as well as developing eco-friendly behaviors and attitudes [6].

Financial Wellness:

Therapists can support financial wellness by helping clients manage financial stress, develop budgeting skills, and improve financial decision-making. Through discussions and therapeutic interventions, individuals can gain greater control over their financial situations and work towards economic stability.

Occupational Wellness:

Occupational wellness involves finding satisfaction and fulfillment in one’s work or chosen career. Therapists can assist clients in exploring career goals, identifying strengths, and addressing work-related stressors. This may lead to increased job satisfaction and overall contentment in the professional sphere.

We all benefit from utilizing the support of a therapist to guide and help us achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. By addressing emotional, intellectual, social, spiritual, physical, environmental, financial, and occupational well-being, therapists can play a significant role in promoting overall health and happiness. Through therapeutic interventions and evidence-based practices, individuals can develop the skills and mindset necessary to embrace wellness in all aspects of life.

References

Carpena, F., Cole, S., Shapiro, J., & Zia, B. (2017). The Abcs of Financial Education: Experimental Evidence on Attitudes, Behavior, and Cognitive Biases. https://doi.org/10.1596/26068

Davis, M. C., Zautra, A. J., & Smith, B. W. (2004). Chronic pain, stress, and the dynamics of affective differentiation. Journal of Personality, 72(6), 1133–1160. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-6494.2004.00293.x

Hillman, C. H., Erickson, K. I., & Kramer, A. F. (2008). Be smart, exercise your heart: Exercise effects on brain and cognition. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 9(1), 58–65. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrn2298

Hinds, J., & Sparks, P. (2008). Engaging with the natural environment: The role of Affective Connection and Identity. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 28(2), 109–120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvp.2007.11.001

House, J. S., Landis, K. R., & Umberson, D. (1988). Social Relationships and health. Science, 241(4865), 540–545. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.3399889

Warburton, D. E. R. (2006). Health benefits of physical activity: The evidence. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 174(6), 801–809. https://doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.051351 Warr, P. (2011b). Work, Happiness, and Unhappiness. https://doi.org/10.4324/978020393685

We’ve all heard someone in our lives pitch the notion, “Eating healthier is cheaper!” or “An apple a day keeps the doctor away!” or perhaps “People who don’t cook don’t care about having quality meals.” Over time, we have come to understand some of the ignorance of these statements when looking at the realities of food deserts, low-income single parenthood, and the imbalance some health trends have brought upon our communities. We already know that nutritious foods aren’t accessible to all, but another related problem that receives less attention is the lack of quality food education for all. We all benefit on a tremendous level from understanding how to meet our own dietary needs.

See the Difference

During my time working in a residential home for youth, one of my responsibilities was to prepare meals for the kids. Our mornings – like in many households with lots of children – were often chaotic. Therefore, breakfasts were often rushed by staff and seen as the least important thing when trying to get the kids together and over to school. On mornings when the kids may have only had several Eggos and milk, they were often unfocused, moody, and begging for a snack before the clock even hit 10am. I noticed this and took over curating more of the meals on my shift. As the kids tried new foods and incorporated more colorful choices into their mornings, they had more energy to engage and to sustain themselves. It wasn’t an easy transition, as eating healthy isn’t always a kid’s first choice, but as we tried out different options, many kids came to like or even request fruits and vegetables they once thought they hated. Even on busy mornings when we had to create fast meals, adding a side of berries or an orange to their cereal or avocado to their breakfast burrito gave them a more solid mindset.

I was also not eating healthily at this time and was constantly running around to try and get everything done. My mood was often low, and I was constantly tired and less creative at work. I began increasing my water intake and making sure at least one of my three meals a day was met with intention and was heavy with fruits and veggies. I followed no dieting plan and did not aggressively cut carbs or red meats from my life, but by making sure some of my snack and meal choices were high in vitamins, superfoods, or made with simple ingredients, my daily outlook shifted. I grew more patient in complex situations, I crashed less in the afternoons, and I felt happier and more motivated than I had in a long time.

Be Perfectly Imperfect at Eating

Recent studies have shown that people who struggle with mental health disorders such as Bipolar disorder, Anxiety disorders, Depression, OCD, Schizophrenia, and ADHD have deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and Omega-3 fatty acids (Jauwena, 2019). Common symptoms of many of these disorders include skipping meals, overeating, and craving comfort foods . As we know, mental health depletion is far more complex than diet alone, but we have seen that increasing the intake of vitamin-rich foods can help counter the severity of these issues.

The increase of serious physical and mental health disorders can’t be fully prevented or treated by changing eating habits, but food has more to do with alleviating mental distress than we give it credit for. Here are some strategies on how to be more conscious, even when it’s hard.

1. Intentional meal setting: Eating well for every single meal isn’t always in the cards. Food deserts still plague the United States, and time to prepare meals can be scarce. If access is the issue, then, when available, encourage your kids and family members to reach for fruit and vegetable products. When you’re shopping, incorporate buying food products that have fewer complex ingredients and artificial sugars if possible. Be patient with yourself and begin habit setting by incorporating at least one vitamin-rich, unprocessed, dense meal a day. Ideas for practical or easy meal preparations can be found all over the internet including platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and TikTok, making it fun and easy to research. For those without internet access, local libraries and bookstores carry quick reads on healthy snacking and meal making as well.

2. Meal prepping with friends- Sometimes starting something new with others is just more fun! Instead of going out to eat with friends, hit the grocery store and go home to create something different and yummy together! Trying new recipes or foods with friends can lower the anxiety or lack of motivation associated with doing these things alone.

3. Being okay with not having all the answers- Don’t be afraid to ask for help! We often assume eating better is common sense, but it’s really not! Reach out to friends, your therapist, and others in your community for tips and tricks until you find a balance that works for your own unique lifestyle. Better Life also works with several registered dietitians who can make recommendations about food, supplements and meal planning to fit your unique health history. Honor that we are still learning about the nutritious values of different foods and that different cultures have different health practices to offer – there’s not just one way. You won’t always know what’s right for your body, but exploring and expanding one’s palate can expand opportunities for a healthier and happier life!

References

Akhaury, K., & Chaware, S. (2022). Relation Between Diabetes and Psychiatric Disorders. Cureus, 14(10), e30733. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.30733. DRI Foundation. (2022). Diabetes Statistics. DRIF. https://diabetesresearch.org/diabetes-statistics/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw756lBhDMARIsAEI0AgnLJDq9bMEoeEyKwnwz3SxUDPzqFTgVPCDrjCfvq5Aiwnk_LVjBpMkaAiJdEALw_wcB.

Jauwena, G. (2019, January 15). Nutrient Deficiency: A Trigger For Mental Health Disorders. Life & Health Network. https://lifeandhealth.org/food/why-plant-based/nutrient-deficiency-the-trigger-of-mental-health-disorders/1314096.html?gclid=Cj0KCQjw756lBhDMARIsAEI0AglOWr4L62_CMek9ES1qfVAG23AuNg_zv2cUiQuXftzvQy66EWWI1hcaAqEUEALw_wcB.

It’s easy to find ourselves overwhelmed and stretched thin within our personal relationships, our work commitments, or societal expectations. But by establishing and maintaining healthy boundaries, we can protect our well-being and create a life that aligns with our values. Let’s take a look at the significance of setting healthy boundaries, and how they contribute to maintaining a healthy sense of self.

Boundaries are the limits and guidelines we set for ourselves and others in various aspects of life. They define what is acceptable and what isn’t in terms of our personal space, time, emotions, and relationships. Boundaries act as safeguards, protecting our physical and mental well-being from being compromised.

One of the most vital aspects of setting healthy boundaries is the preservation of emotional energy. When we establish boundaries, we can avoid emotional exhaustion by setting limits on the amount of emotional labor we’re willing to invest in others. It allows us to focus on our own needs and prioritize self-care without feeling guilty or overwhelmed. By doing so, we can protect our mental and emotional well-being by filtering out negativity and toxic influences, and by promoting positive and nurturing environments. By setting boundaries around our personal space and time, we can recharge, engage in activities that bring us joy, and practice self-reflection. Personally, although it was a very challenging task for me to embrace, setting boundaries with loved ones and even dismissing some important people in my life ended up being one of the best moves I’ve made. I no longer feel trapped in their toxic lives, and finally

feel free to focus on myself. Although I’ve missed some of these individuals dearly, I know these actions have allowed me more space to truly find myself and grow.

I can’t emphasize enough how crucial communication is when setting boundaries. It serves as a foundation for establishing mutual understanding, respect, and clarity in our relationships. We can then clearly express our expectations and limits to others. By openly discussing our boundaries, we provide others with a clear understanding of what is acceptable and what isn’t. This clarity helps prevent misunderstandings and promotes healthier interactions. We also gain a deeper understanding of our own needs, limits, and values through communication. By expressing our boundaries to others, we become more self-aware and develop a stronger sense of self. This self-awareness enables us to assert our needs confidently and authentically.

I’ve found that some of the most important factors when establishing boundaries are managing stress and burnout. By recognizing our limits and prioritizing self-care, we can prevent ourselves from taking on too much and spreading ourselves too thin. Boundaries allow us to say “no” when necessary, delegate tasks, and create a healthier work life balance. By doing so, we assert our personal autonomy and empower ourselves to grow. By establishing limits on what we accept and what we don’t, we create space for personal development, self-improvement, and the pursuit of our goals. Boundaries enable us to focus on what truly matters to us, leading to a greater sense of fulfillment. Again, this is all easier said than done, but let me tell you, communicating and saying “no” in certain aspects of my life has been a game changer. If you fail to communicate struggles or feelings of burnout to your work, friends, or family, they will never know what is actually occurring in your life and this stress can show up in damaging ways. Although the conversation may feel uncomfortable, take it from me, it is so worth it, and it gets easier!

In a world where demands and expectations seem endless, setting healthy boundaries becomes a transformative act of self-care. By understanding and respecting our limits, we nurture our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Setting boundaries allows us to maintain healthy relationships, preserve our energy, and protect our sense of self. Embrace the power of boundaries and watch as they unlock a life that aligns with your values and brings you joy and contentment. Remember, setting boundaries is not selfish — it’s an essential step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life! You deserve to have the opportunity to live your best life!

When we feel overwhelmed, anxious, down, or whatever big emotion we are experiencing, something as simple as moving our body can make a world of difference. Mindfulness is not only reserved for yoga instructors or experts; it can be as simple as doing one of the movements listed below. Here are a few key moves to incorporate into your toolbox of coping skills for when big emotions come up. These moves are for all ages, all bodies, and all abilities. Feel free to modify or change these as needed. They can be done at work, at home, or when you are out and about. I have found these tips to be extremely beneficial when I don’t have time or space to process them in the moment. These simple skills allow me to ground my mind, connect with my body, and compartmentalize the overwhelmed feeling until I am in a better spot to revisit my feelings. I’ve relied on these tools through the years, and hope they can benefit you as well! 

Drink some Water  

 Something as simple and common as water can help us access the present moment. When you are overwhelmed, take a second to pick out a glass or grab your water bottle. Before you fill it with water, ask yourself: how does the cup feel? Is it heavy? Smooth? Notice how you hold the glass. Next, fill it with water, pour as much or as little as you need, and take a drink. As you do so, think about how the water tastes. How it feels in your mouth? What temperature is the water? Is it shocking to your system? How do you feel when the water travels to your stomach? What does your stomach feel like when the water reaches it? After you’ve taken a sip of water, try to take a deep breath. Focus on your breathing for a moment before returning to your emotions. 

Sit in the Sunshine 

We are lucky to live in Colorado, where most days are full of sun. Sometimes the best thing for us is a moment in the sunshine. When feeling overwhelming emotions but the sun is shining, take a moment to go stand or sit in outside. If you are unable to go outside, consider opening the blinds to a sunny window and sitting in front of it for a few moments. As you let the sun wash over your face, close your eyes and let yourself feel the warmth. Where are you able to feel it most? As you soak in the sun, take a few deep breaths in and out. Be conscious of how it feels when your chest and stomach rise and fall, and how your body feels as you breathe in and out. Sit in the sun for as long as you need, until returning to your emotions seems a bit more manageable.  

Mindful Walk 

The goal of mindfulness is to connect your physical body to your emotional mind. When we take a moment to disengage with our minds and focus on our bodies/physical world, we are better able to integrate the two, allowing for more space to process our emotions. Connecting our physical body to our emotional mind can be very beneficial when working towards maintaining balance in our lives. There are a lot of different options that may help, but one I would like to share is going on a mindful walk. This can be at your favorite park, your favorite hike, around your neighborhood, or just to the mailbox and back. Before you begin your walk, make sure you’re wearing comfortable clothing and shoes. Start by taking a moment to close your eyes and breathe deeply as you center yourself in the moment. Next, begin to walk, taking time and energy to consider how your body feels. How does the ground feel at your feet? What kinds of steps are you taking? Where do your arms naturally fall? How do they swing? How fast are you walking? What does your heart feel like beating in your chest? What does your breathing feel like? Can you take a moment to only think about the breath that you take? What can you see? Hear? Smell? Touch? Are there any leaves or flowers you can pick up to mark your mindful walk? Take your time as you walk, go at a comfortable pace, and try to focus on connecting with your body. If your brain begins to drift and think about your emotions, gently navigate it back to something physical. Walk for as long as you need to, and when you are done, re-engage with your senses. 

There are many ways to engage both your mind and your body besides going on a walk. Some of these include yoga, stretching, deep breathing, closing your eyes and considering where in your body you may feel a certain emotion, etc. The goal of this practice is to integrate what we experience in our bodies with what we experience in our minds, allowing for alignment and balance.  

In a fast-paced world filled with endless responsibilities and demands, it is easy to neglect components of life. Over the last few months, I noticed myself feeling “heavy”, irritable and less effective in my life. I began to research and learn more about what it means to live a wellness-focused life. In this blog post, I share the strategies and tips to help live a life centered around well-ness found in my research. 

1. Nurturing Physical Health:Physical health forms the foundation of our overall well-being. Start by incorporating regular exercise into your routine, whether it’s walking, yoga, or dancing. Choose a majority of nutritious, whole foods that fuel your body and provide essential nutrients. Sleep is also paramount to recharge and rejuvenate. Remember, small changes can lead to significant improvements over time. 
2. Prioritizing Mental and Emotional Well-being: Caring for our mental and emotional health is equally important. Make time for self-reflection, meditation, or mindfulness practices to cultivate a calm and centered mind. Engage in activities that bring you joy, such as pursuing hobbies, reading, or spending quality time with loved ones. Seek support when needed, and don’t hesitate to consult professionals who can guide you on your journey. 
3. Practicing Self-Care: Self-care is a vital component of a wellness-focused life. It involves nourishing your mind, body, and soul. Dedicate time to activities that promote relaxation, such as taking soothing baths, listening to music, or indulging in a favorite hobby. Set boundaries and learn to say no to obligations that drain your energy. Remember, self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for your well-being. 
4. Cultivating Meaningful Connections: Strong social connections have a profound impact on our happiness and overall wellness. Invest time and effort in nurturing healthy relationships with family, friends, and community. Engage in meaningful conversations, practice active listening, and create opportunities for shared experiences. Surround yourself with positive influences that inspire and support your growth. 
5. Striving for Work-Life Balance: Achieving a healthy work-life balance is crucial for overall well-being. Identify your priorities and set realistic boundaries to avoid burnout. Take breaks, delegate tasks, and create a schedule that allows time for relaxation, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones. Remember that your well-being matters, and finding harmony between work and personal life is key. 
6. Embracing Continuous Learning: Never stop learning and growing. Engage in activities that expand your knowledge and challenge your intellect. Pursue new interests, take up courses, or delve into books that inspire you. Embracing lifelong learning fosters personal growth, enhances creativity, and provides a sense of fulfillment. 
7. Creating a Nurturing Environment: Your environment plays a significant role in your well-being. Create a space that reflects your values and promotes tranquility. Declutter your living space, incorporate elements of nature, and surround yourself with meaningful objects. Whether it’s through gardening, enjoying outdoor activities, or bringing nature indoors, connecting with the environment can have a positive impact on your well-being.

 Living a wellness-focused life is a journey that requires conscious choices, self-compassion, and dedication. By nurturing your physical, mental, and emotional health, practicing self-care, cultivating meaningful connections, striving for work-life balance, embracing continuous learning, and creating a nurturing environment, you can embark on a path toward holistic well-being. This seems intense and overwhelming but, remember, it is a journey of ups and downs, and you may need support. In my next blog post I will share more of my learning about the 8 core components of the wellness model. 

References

Stoewen D. L. (2017). Dimensions of wellness: Change your habits, change your life. The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne, 58(8), 861–862. 

Sutton, J. (2020, August 17). The self-care wheel: Wellness worksheets, activities & PDF. PositivePsychology.com. https://positivepsychology.com/self-care-wheel/ 

Swarbrick, P. J. Y., & Yudof, J. (n.d.). Wellness – Center on Integrated Health Care and self-directed recovery. https://www.center4healthandsdc.org/uploads/7/1/1/4/71142589/wellness_in_8_dimensions_booklet_with_daily_plan.pdf