How to Improve Your Wellness

It can be intimidating to see these eight types of wellness and wonder how you can possibly fit them all into your life. The thing is, you don't need to devote your time equally to each kind of wellness. Some, like physical and emotional wellness, are important for everyone. Others, like vocational and environmental, aren't always possible for people, depending on where you live and work. Start by determining which categories are the most important to you and build out your wellness routine from there!

• Find time to move your body! Try to get about 150 minutes of movement every week. High intensity exercises like running or swimming actually count "double" toward your minutes, meaning you only need 75 minutes of this per week. If you're having trouble finding time to work out, vigorous exercise can help you make the most of your time! 

• Practice nourishing your body! If you don't already, try to build your meals and portions using the plate-by-plate method. If your plate is half veggies, you're already doing something right!  

• Try to get between 7 – 9 hours of sleep each night. If you struggle falling or staying asleep, here are some sleep hygiene tips that might help.

• Try out hobbies that tap into your creativity and curiosity. Here's a list of 100 hobbies that serve different purposes, which can be a helpful way to decide which ones you want to do.  

• Travel! If you can't travel abroad, try traveling around your own country—or if that isn't in your budget either, be a tourist in your own city. 

• Learn another language. There are lots of apps and classes out there that can help you expand your understanding of a new language!  

• Read more books. If it's hard for you to find time to sit down and read a physical book, try Libby to listen to free audiobooks from libraries near you.   

• Make space for your feelings. Repressing them is a recipe for disaster. Here is a guide on how to regulate your emotions! 

• Reach out for support and accept help from loved ones when you need it. 

• Be kind to yourself! Many of us have the natural inclination to be hard on ourselves, even when we're just trying our best. If you struggle with this, try to be more accepting of yourself. Don't say things to yourself that you wouldn't say to a friend!

• Take stock of your spending and track it every month. It can be helpful to have a "monthly meeting" with yourself to be honest about how much you're spending in different categories, like shopping and dining out.

• Make small changes that add up over time, like making your own coffee at home, packing lunch for work, and meal planning.

• Wait 24 hours before making a purchase, to give yourself time to think it over and resist impulse purchases.

• Rotate through streaming platforms; try to only subscribe to one a month, then unsubscribe and try a different one.

• Make an effort to stay connected with your friends and family, even if it means you have to schedule time together around busy weeks!

• Volunteer in your community. Food banks and animal shelters are two places always looking for volunteers.

• Join a local club, like a book club, craft club, run club, etc. This is a great way to meet people while doing something you love!

• Reflect on what brings you joy and meaning to your work.

• Explore volunteer opportunities as a way to build your skills.

• Make connections in your field and leave a positive impression.

• Take continuing education classes and certifications.

• Be aware of your personal impact on the environment.

• Be mindful of your water usage.

• Use reusable bags and water bottles.

• Try to buy locally grown, in-season produce.

• Turn off lights and computers when not in use.

• Recycle properly.

• Spend time outdoors.

• Try walking or biking more places. 

• Thrift clothing instead of buying it new.

• Explore your inner self and what brings you joy.

• Try meditating with an app like Headspace or DownDog Meditation.

• Find a faith or community cause that aligns with your values.

• Take time to travel and experience other cultures.

Remember – you don’t have to do all of this, and you don’t need to! Pick what you want to prioritize, based on what makes sense for your life and your personal wellness. Even just doing one or two of these things to start is a great way to increase your wellness and boost your mood!