Wellness Box offers engaging fitness classes for all levels of experience .
during winter months , the Vigo County and Terre Haute parks and nature centers , as well as the Heritage Trail , are great avenues to explore during winter months .
Physical self care also comes in the form of food and nutrients . While winter is not always synonymous with fresh fruits and vegetables , fresh produce is readily available through the Terre Haute Farmers Market and local grocery stores .
Winter is often thought of for soups and stews , said Dr . Kathy Stienstra , clinician with The Maple Center for Integrative Health . Adding produce to those dishes is a great way to increase the intake of fruits and vegetables .
Stienstra sees many patients who are trying to improve their health and eat less sugar after the holiday season . She encourages those individuals to use The Maple Center ’ s free ear acupuncture clinic that is designed to help curb addiction and food / sugar cravings .
Light therapy is also an inexpensive way to practice physical self care at home . Stienstra recommends a Verilux light , which looks much like an iPad or tablet , and provides enough light for treatment to help curb the seasonal affective effect .
Spiritual and creative activities
There are many ways to practice self care using spiritual and creative energy . Religion and connecting to a higher power can be crucial for self care . Nearly all places of worship , in all denominations , welcome visitors to their congregations to connect with their higher power . If you are unsure where to attend a service , the Inter-faith Council of the Wabash Valley can provide recommendations .
Activities such as meditation , sound and breathwork are helpful self care practices . The Maple Center offers several meditation classes . The new Illumination Wellness studio in 12 Points offers regular meditation , sound and breathwork classes . Local support groups for mental health , Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon Family Group meetings are also a helpful way to practice self care .
Journaling and writing are also helpful . One common practice is to write for 10 minutes at the beginning or end of each day about anything that comes to mind . The Maple Center offers a free Thursday evening writing group for those who need a structured place to write .
Practicing art and creativity are extremely beneficial toward overall well-being and health , and are great methods of self care . Activities such as painting and drawing promote mental calmness , lower stress levels and release endorphins .
Makers Studio in 12 Points offers a variety of art and painting classes for adults and children during the winter months . “ Being engaged in a creative activity can have powerful effects on your health ,” said Yvette Morgan , owner of Makers Studio . “ And when you engage with your community , it gives you a boost . It helps prevent loneliness , especially with kids who may be stuck inside more during winter .”
Morgan suggests keeping a basket or corner of the home dedicated to art supplies such as crayons and paper that kids and adults can easily grab . Adult coloring books are a great way to practice self care and enjoy quiet time . She also encourages community members to visit Makers Studio to pick up “ make and take ” art kits that can be used at home .
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January / February 2022 • Terre Haute Living 65