PERSONAL, FAMILY, AND COMMUNITY WELLNESS
Engaging Wellness
Engaging Wellness, is a new pilot program for Emmet County designed to support residents in taking nine simple, meaningful actions to improve overall well-being.
Energize Your Body
Movement
Moving the body is a key action to address physical health, as well as our overall emotional and mental well-being. Move your body daily to improve your well-being, whether it's walking, stretching, or dancing—any activity that raises your heart rate for about twenty to thirty minutes.
Nutrition
Prepare meals at home using mostly plant-based, whole foods—like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds—while limiting processed items. Try the 80% Rule: Eat slowly to feel 80% full and note how full you feel 20 minutes later, to see if your hunger was actually satisfied. It can take 20 minutes for your stomach to signal your brain that it is full.
Stillness
Take time to relax your mind, body, and emotions through meditation or muscle relaxation. Spend just ten minutes being fully present—notice your surroundings, posture, emotions, and thoughts. You can practice this anytime: during a break, while walking, or whenever it feels right. Use a journal to reflect on the experience.
Empower Your Mind
Personal Empowerment
Personal empowerment spans from self-awareness to mastery and success, built on skills that strengthen your sense of self. Set a meaningful five-year goal—something truly important to you—and break it into small, manageable steps to stay motivated.
Financial
A strong financial foundation can help reduce stress and bring peace of mind. Get creative with budgeting, explore ways to save for the future, and consider speaking with a financial expert. Setting clear goals and managing priorities through a budget can make a big difference. For financial support, call Community Connection at 800-432-4121 or Michigan 2-1-1 or visiting mi211.org.
Self-Care
Personal empowerment means actively protecting and improving your well-being and happiness, especially during stressful times. Create a personalized plan tailored to your needs—whether it’s quitting smoking, making a safety plan, spending time in nature, improving sleep, or other positive steps.
Strengthen Your Connections
Connection
Connecting with others can include involvement with community-based organizations, places of worship, workplace relationships, family members, groups of friends, and self-help support groups. Building strong connections creates a sense of belonging. Feeling supported in these relationships helps improve mutual respect and understanding.
Purpose
Create a sense of purpose in life by exploring your consciousness or pursuing your dreams. What would you do if you could do anything you wanted? How would you invest your time and talents? Even if they are “baby steps” or a “side interest” or hobby, begin walking this path. Invest in what is important.
Mindset
A healthy mindset can lead to a happier life, especially when surrounded by positive people. Since our thoughts shape how we see and interact with the world, take a moment to reflect on what you're grateful for—share one thing with your family or jot it down in a journal.
Add Additional Resources Here
If you have helpful resources to share—such as support groups, apps, websites, or community programs—please submit them below. Your contributions can help others find the tools they need to improve their well-being and build personal empowerment.