Wellness can take multiple forms and definitions, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional; and the ways you can promote positive wellness and wellbeing can be even more diverse. A few ways that I promote positive wellness in my personal life is to spend as much time as possible in nature. This could include finding new trails to hike, taking the dog for a walk, working in the garden, or my personal favorite – rock climbing. I personally enjoy these activities because each one provides me with a chance to take a breath, focus on myself, and be in the moment.
For example, when I am in the gym or climbing outside I am providing myself with an opportunity to clear my mind and focus on a singular project set in front of me. I visualize the path I want to take on the wall, assess the effort and strength I need to exert for each move, and finally put it all together for my first attempt. More often than not I do not successfully complete a project on my first attempt, but I take a step back, reassess, and then attack the problem in a different way until I successfully achieve my goal. This process gives me the chance to focus on what’s in front of me and put my normal day-to-day issues and stressors on the back burner for a little while.
Spending time outside on the rock or in the gym also encourages me to put aside technology for a while, be present in the moment, and take in the environment around me. I have found this is very important to my mental health. Climbing is a form of meditation for me, much like running, walking, or lifting weights can be a form of meditation for others, and I believe it is important for everyone to find an activity that promotes physical and mental stimulation while also allowing them to push pause on life for a brief moment.
