6 ways to prioritize your mental and physical health

Jessica Evans Avatar
Samantha Kupianen, a Public Affairs Specialist at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, walks along the newly opened nature trail at MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina, July 16, 2024. The new trail provides another amenity for the installation’s community with the goal of promoting health and wellness, and offering multiple scenes that highlight natural aspects of the air station. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Isabella Ramos)
Samantha Kupianen, a Public Affairs Specialist at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, walks along the newly opened nature trail at MCAS Cherry Point, North Carolina, July 16, 2024. The new trail provides another amenity for the installation’s community with the goal of promoting health and wellness, and offering multiple scenes that highlight natural aspects of the air station. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Isabella Ramos)

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Military life can be unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you can’t prioritize your own needs. In fact, it’s essential. Treat self-care like any other important appointment. Schedule it on your calendar. Whether it’s 15 minutes in the morning for a quiet coffee, an hour in the evening for a hobby, or an afternoon on the weekend to recharge, the choice is yours. You have the power to set aside that time for yourself.

Here are 6 ways to prioritize your mental and physical wellness:

Schedule ‘Me Time’ That Fits Your Life

Consider the ebb and flow of military life. If your spouse is on a long training mission or deployment, use that period to focus on yourself. Many installations offer resources like community centers that provide child care. This can give you the uninterrupted time you need for self-care. Using these available resources helps ensure you stay balanced and ready to handle the challenges of military life.

Move Your Body and Boost Your Energy

Staying active is key to maintaining energy and managing stress, but finding time for long workouts can be tough. Fortunately, you don’t need hours at the gym to stay fit. Short, consistent efforts can significantly impact your health and mood.

Look into fitness classes offered on your base. Many installations offer brief, high-energy classes like Zumba, HIIT, or spin designed to fit a busy schedule. If you prefer working out at home, explore free resources like the Army’s HITT program, which provides online videos you can follow. Even a quick walk around your neighborhood or base can lift your spirits and clear your mind.

If you have kids, get them involved in your fitness routine. Many installations have stroller fitness groups or family-friendly runs. This allows you to stay active while connecting with other military spouses who understand the challenges of balancing parenthood and fitness.

Unleash Your Creativity with On-Base Resources

Yukari Brown, spouse of 2nd Lt. Mark Brown, 23d Medical Group, poses for a photo after a ballet class May 12, 2020, in Ray City, Georgia. Brown has been practicing ballet for 26 years and teaching for seven years. Brown uses video communications to teach and stay connected to her craft and others around the world who share her passion for ballet. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Taryn Butler)

Self-care goes beyond physical health. It’s about nurturing your soul as well. Engaging in a creative hobby is a fulfilling way to practice self-care, and the military community offers plenty of opportunities to explore your creative side.

Visit the arts and crafts center on your base. Many installations offer workshops in pottery, painting, photography, and more. These classes are often low-cost and provide all the supplies you need. If writing is your passion, look for military spouse writing groups locally or online. Organizations like MilSpouseFest often host virtual writing challenges or creative workshops catering to military spouses.

Don’t worry about being perfect in your creative endeavors. The goal is to enjoy the process and find joy in creating something uniquely yours. Keeping a journal or creating a scrapbook of your PCS adventures can also become a cherished part of your routine. These creative outlets allow you to express yourself outside of your spouse, parent, or supporter roles.

Connect with Nature Wherever You Are

Military life can take you to some incredible places. Whether you’re stationed near the mountains, by the ocean, or in the desert, nature has a way of grounding us and providing a peaceful escape from the daily grind.

Take advantage of the natural surroundings at your current duty station. If you’re near the coast, make it a habit to visit the beach regularly. If you’re in a mountainous area, explore the hiking trails. Even in urban settings, find green spaces or parks to enjoy a quiet walk. Many installations also have outdoor recreation programs that offer gear rentals, guided hikes, or even camping trips, making it easier to spend time outdoors.

Even small moments in nature can be rejuvenating. Enjoy a cup of tea on your porch while watching the sunset or take a stroll around the block to clear your mind. These moments, when embraced as part of your self-care routine, will help you feel more centered, calm, and connected to the world around you. Nature has a way of inspiring us and providing a peaceful escape from the daily grind.

Build Your Support Network

One of the greatest strengths of military life is the community you’re a part of. Self-care doesn’t have to be a solo journey. Lean into the support network around you, whether it’s through a spouse group, a fitness buddy, or a crafting circle.

Most installations have spouse clubs or family readiness groups that host regular events, including coffee meetups and volunteer opportunities. These are the perfect places to connect with others who understand your lifestyle. Consider joining or starting a group centered around a shared interest like reading, running, or crafting. Websites like MilSpouse Tribe or Military OneSource can help you find or create groups that meet your interests.

Your community is there to support you. Reach out when you need someone to chat with over coffee or a group to join for an afternoon hike. The shared experiences of military spouses create strong bonds, and these connections can be invaluable in maintaining a balanced, fulfilling life.

Embrace Self-Care as Essential

Self-care isn’t just a buzzword; it is a vital part of living a balanced, fulfilling life in the military. You’re investing in your well-being by carving out time for yourself, embracing creativity, connecting with nature, and building a support network. This investment benefits both you and your loved ones. Your strength supports your family’s strength. Taking care of yourself isn’t just a luxury but a necessity. Embrace these strategies to thrive in the unique and rewarding world of military life.