Mentor Reflection

Often times as counselors we sacrifice our own health and wellbeing in order to care for others. Personally I strive to keep my own lights bright by interacting with friends and family, fellowshipping at church, and resting. In the past I have called my parents, spent time with my youth group, and lounged around the house while watching a good movie. All of these seem to minimize the amounts of stress that I have and put my mind ease. In order for us as counselors to help others I truly believe that we must first take care of ourselves. Learning how to balance our personal lives and work lives to decrease our levels of stress is essential. Although I kept my mind and spirit healthy this semester I was not able to work on keeping my body healthy at the beginning of the semester. I was not able to exercise much due to the extensive workload that comes with being a graduate student.

I discovered that there are over 60 total classes offered per week during the spring semesters. There was something available for all levels and abilities. There were multiple formats available with a schedule that offered classes as early as 6am and as late as 7pm. I was able to fit exercising into my schedule once again. On Monday’s and Wednesday’s I would attend the Pilates class under the instructor of Kate. On Tuesday’s and Thursday I would attend the Early Bird Yoga under the instructor Caitlin. I noticed on the days that I attended group exercises I had more energy. I was more enthusiastic and calm. I believe that participating in these activities helped to guide me successful through this