January 3 was International Mind-Body and Wellness Day. A new year means a great new opportunity to focus on our mental wellness. Many people take the opportunity to try to better themselves at the start of the new year.

Junior Felicity Severs has always had a big focus on her mental and physical wellness. Severs usually spends time focusing on her mind-body wellness by reading, running, or spending time with her family.

“Getting active not only makes your body feel good, but your brain as well. It feels accomplishing to know that you’ve done something productive for yourself, and boosts confidence as you continue to grow stronger. Another way physical health affects mental health is all of the hormones that get released as you exercise, often referred to as ‘happy hormones,'” said Severs.

Physical activity improves your mental wellness because it feels accomplishing to know that you’ve done something productive for yourself, and boosts confidence as you continue to grow stronger. Severs has used CrossFit and other forms of physical activity as a form of stress relief.

“I’m involved in CrossFit, rugby, track, and enjoy running in my free time. Getting active always helps clear my mind, and allows me to focus on myself. I’m able to set goals for myself, and work to get there, which gives me a purpose,” said Severs.

Another way students can focus on their mind-body wellness is focusing on other interests beyond physical activity that you enjoy.

Senior Raquel Saucedo-Ceballos focuses on her mind-body wellness by talking about what’s wrong. Having someone as a support when needed is really helpful but also valuing alone time is important to focus on yourself.

“When I do feel like I need a break from the world I go out and do something active in order to be alone, but still keep my thoughts in a good place,” said Saucedo-Ceballos.

Saucedo-Ceballos also enjoys spending time participating in clubs and activities that interest her. She is involved in FCCLA, Student Council, and soccer.

“I try to keep myself busy all the time and allow myself little to no time alone,” said Saucedo-Ceballos.

Mind-body wellness is a really important part of our lives. The new year is a perfect place to start. Find something you’re interested in and focus on how it can alleviate stress and lead to better Mind-body and wellness.