Feb/Mar 2025 Aspire Magazine FULL Issue | Page 96

5 . Oil , Water , and Heat

For centuries , people around the world have used some combination of water , oil , and heat to help foster wellness — from saunas , steam baths , and sweat lodges to hot oil and Swedish massage . These are , to me , some of the funnest wellness practices because they not only promote healing but restore our mind and soul as well . Many cultures around the world have used these basic ingredients to promote wellness , and you can embrace them , too .

6 . Music and Community

Social wellness is a vital part of achieving a state of well-being . And what better way to engage in a loving way with our community than with sound and music ? Cultures around the world have long used sound and music as an integral part of the healing process . Meanwhile , all types of community contribute to wellness . Community is a critical ingredient without which we can never be whole and well .

7 . Grounding and Nature

“ Remember you are dust , and to dust you shall return .” The concept behind this popular biblical quote ( from Genesis 3:19 ) predates the Bible , and it is corroborated by modern science . We are part of the earth and the earth is part of us . Embracing practices that help us reconnect with nature and that protect and honor Mother Earth can help improve our health . The seventh wellness practice reminds us that we are not far removed from our ancestors and that we are an integral part of all life . By fostering , in simple ways , our connection to nature , we reclaim our rightful state of wellness .

I remember when I went out on my first real date as a teenager . I was so anxious and eager for it to go well that I spent hours preparing and anticipating every detail of the outing : my outfit , my hair , my mannerisms , even my smile .

I rehearsed conversations , coming up with dozens of potential scenarios and practicing anecdotes in my head to make sure I sounded smart , witty , cute , funny , sexy .