Wellness Blog –

How many days do we not capitalize on opportunities that we encounter to take some time for our mental health? We are often held captive to our responsibilities or our schedules. If a gap comes up in our day, how quickly do we fill that space with something we deem more important than some mental down time. After repeating this cycle over and over, I have found that I need to schedule some respite time so that I can ensure that I am being more focused on my overall wellness. These blocks of time are non-negotiable.

I don’t know about you, but one of my biggest problems is that I spend way to much time sitting at my desk. Recently, I have started to get up at numerous points and walk to the end of the building in back or take a short walk outside. Every time I choose this option, I feel like I have been much more productive at the end of the day. This also avoids snacking and other bad habits that we create while being “locked in.” We can still be productive if we aren’t handcuffed to our desks. For this to be true though, we must be proactive about taking those “breaks” throughout our day.

I also have started to put in my ear buds and listen to some light jazz or audio readings of scripture. This has also made a difference in my mood throughout the day. No matter how frustrated you get during one of “those” meetings, listen to some music that you love or choose an audio book or scripture being spoken to you as you work. This could also be a small thing that you could do to enhance your wellness. I know that the things that I have offered today may seem “simple,” but even the simplest of changes can provide can alter your attitude and potentially provide the inner peace that we all strive for.  So, Use the K.I.S.S. Method (Keep It Simple Sinner). Even the simplest of changes will help you towards your wellness goals.

Blessings,

 Rev. Gary R Pomrenke

Rev. Gary Pomrenke is the pastor of the newly re-launched New Hope Lutheran in Chesterfield, Va. He served in the United States Air Force for 25 years prior to ordination. Pastor Gary has a MA in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University. He is Married to Tracie and they have 5 children spread across Virginia, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. They also have 7 grandchildren that they love and adore.