RecWell Stories
Beck Lukins
Wellness is a conscious, self-directed and evolving process of
achieving full potential. How do you actively pursue your wellness?
I actively pursue my wellness in a lot of ways. I try to keep a
journal, where I write about my dreams, things that are bothering me,
and things I'm excited about or currently enjoying in my life. I also
try to keep up with my hobbies, balancing them with my schoolwork.
Making sure I put aside time for myself, even if I'm busy - a long
shower or movie night can really help me de-stress. I eat healthy,
knowing that what I put in my body is what I'll get out of it. I have
a really great therapist that I see biweekly, and counseling has had
an amazing impact on my mental health. Otherwise, I find exercise
really helps my mental health as well, and I always feel more
refreshed after a work out.
What do you do to take care of yourself when you are feeling
stressed or overwhelmed?
When I feel really stressed (which is most of the time), I try to
practice different mindfulness exercises. From taking deeper and
longer breaths, to taking breaks from studying to eat and stretch, and
even writing to-do lists to keep my thoughts organized and so I don't
have to remember everything. I also use visualization techniques to
help me calm my nervous system down and transition into relaxing, and
to help me fall asleep at night (I just can't get my brain to shut off!).
What motivates you to be well and stay healthy?
Living with chronic pain motivates me to stay well like nothing
else. By maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle, I can manage my
pain and am able to keep symptoms under control. This allows me to
continue going to and doing things I want to, and not letting my pain
control my life. Even one little slip up (missing a daily walk, or
having a bad meal) can send me ten steps back; so the motivation to do
and be well always is very strong.
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