What Does Wellness Look Like for You?

Several weeks ago I decided to take the television out of my bedroom. Most of us have probably read numerous articles or reports on why we should not have a television in the bedroom. These articles talk about things like improved sleep, the bedroom being the place where should focus on sleep or intimacy with your partner, or other health benefits.

As a mental health professional, I try to engage in the same practices and techniques that I advise clients on. One of those things is the kind of care given to ourselves. I realized that having the television in my bedroom was impacting in a negative way how I was taking care of myself. I had been thinking for some time about removing the television from my bedroom and since this month focuses on wellness, I decided to go ahead and pull the plug. The first thing I noticed was that the quality of my sleep improved and I woke up less groggy and sluggish. Now, I am a person that never had issues falling asleep or staying asleep, so this improvement in the quality of my sleep was definitely a game changer for me. Prior to this, I would fall asleep with the television on, so while I was getting enough hours of sleep, the quality of the sleep was diminished by the television being on while sleeping.

The second thing that happened was that I spent more time reading and in regular prayer time. I have loved to read since a very young age and with the television in my bedroom, I found myself not reading as often as I desired. I have rediscovered my love of reading and reading keeps our minds sharp and active. My faith and prayer time is important to me, as well. There were days that I would spend so much time mindlessly watching television that I was not praying or talking to God with the consistency I desired or needed. With the television out of my bedroom, I am more committed in my prayer time and time with God.

Overall, removing the television from my bedroom has enabled me to put realistic boundaries around my television viewing. I have noticed a significant improvement in my mood and demeanor; and I am engaging in hobbies that I had not been spending as much time with. As we observe National Wellness Month during August, take some time to determine what wellness looks like for you and what actions are appropriate for you to take to achieve the level of health and wellness you desire.

Your action step is to identify at least one wellness activity you can commit to on a consistent basis.

Yours in Health & Wellness,

Dr. Daphne

P.S. Please do not use the blog post or engaging with my website as a replacement for therapy. If you find yourself having difficulty with your functioning, please seek out the services of a licensed mental health professional.