Health hints: How to prioritize your wellness

Sniffles and sneezes have a sneaky way of sidetracking our wellness. It’s often when our health takes a turn that we suddenly realize all the activities, service opportunities, and quality family time we’d miss.

If we aren’t feeling well physically, spiritually, or mentally, we run the risk of pushing ourselves too far into “forced shutdown mode,” where our bodies make us rest out of self-preservation. That’s why we must put wellness in action.

How to be healthy: Your wellness in action

Wellness acts as a signpost for our souls. It’s only when we aren’t well that we take steps to get back to feeling our best. That’s why it’s critical to build a strategy before you need to see a doctor.

Here’s a few health hints to keep you in tip-top shape:

Find a primary care provider: Having someone on your healthcare team that you know—and who listens to you and your needs—is critical. CHM members have access to our Virtual Care Solution, powered by HealthTap, where virtual primary care visits are included in every CHM membership (for age 1+).

Members don’t need to have a particular health issue to schedule an appointment (though annual primary care checkups are always a good idea). In fact, with VCS, you’re encouraged to register and schedule a “meet your doctor” appointment ahead of time, just to get to know your physician and see if you think they’re a good fit! It’s the conversation you need, with no pressure (or rush) when you’re not feeling well.

Set up a nutrition strategy: Eating well and fueling your body for success gives you the energy you need to thrive. Try tracking the food you eat and setting up a nutrition plan that fits your dietary and lifestyle needs.

Keep in mind that not every diet is right for every person; it’s important to check with your doctor before making any major changes. HealthTap’s doctors can give advice to CHM members—they’re a great resource to start with as you explore your physical health.

Find your fitness stride: Making movement part of your everyday life doesn’t have to be a chore. Start small with a video workout from home, a nature walk, or a planned get-together at the beach with friends. Getting the family in on the fitness fun is another great way to spend time together while staying active.

Refocus your emotional wellness: God wants to reassure us when we’re facing emotional unrest. Meditating on healing scriptures in the Bible can help us refocus and reset our emotional, mental, and spiritual states.

Your wellness matters

God created us in Eden for goodness, and that includes taking care of ourselves. He has a good purpose for our lives, and He wants us to be able to fulfill it [Jeremiah 29:11]. We can’t serve well if we’re running on fumes.

When we prioritize our wellness as much as possible before we reach that crucial “shutdown” point, we’re able to honor God with our bodies and feel our best [1 Corinthians 6:19-20]. Choosing to take those first steps of finding a primary care provider, eating and resting well, and making movement a daily rhythm will help you find a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.