Dr. Beronica Salazar, Prgorams Director
During this season, my hope for everyone is to take time to focus on wellness. Also, to think about wellness in a way that celebrates each success individuals make to meet their wellness goals, rather than getting stuck with what was missed or what we did wrong. Wellness is multidimensional and it requires us to continuously examine all areas of ourselves.
When I work with clients or staff, I like to talk to them about holistic wellness. This multilayered approach helps us consider various areas of wellness to maintain our bodies and minds healthy. Our discussions lead into talking through each of the eight dimensions (emotional, spiritual, intellectual, physical, environmental, financial, occupational and social) and how their needs are being met or unmet. We also take into account how individual needs change over time and plan for them.
Achieving wellness is about the journey. This focus aims to consider ways the body and soul changes throughout our lives. The multidimensional approach also gives us room to recognize the intricate parts of ourselves to then make the adjustments necessary to feel better.
I invite you today to self-examine how you feel within each of the areas (emotional, spiritual, intellectual, physical, environmental, financial, occupational and social). If you find yourself yearning for more in an area then create the opportunity to invest the energy to fulfill it. For example, if you are feeling disconnected then consider looking for social opportunities to connect. Ponder how that might look like either at work or with friends or family then take action. There is no one way to get your needs met, so allow yourself to be creative to get what you need.
As you think about how to better care for yourself, consider what you need and what small changes you can make. Sometimes slowing down to ask these questions is difficult to do, but it can make a world of difference. Give yourself the gift of wellness and invest in yourself today.
