My name is LeCretia, and I have been with The University of Alabama for nearly seven years, with my anniversary coming up this October. I currently serve as a Testing Services Associate I in the Office of Disability Services Testing Center. In this role, I support daily testing operations while helping create a welcoming and supportive environment for students, faculty, staff, and colleagues.
What inspired me to focus more on my health and wellbeing was realizing how connected everything is. When you’re mentally exhausted, stressed, not sleeping enough, or constantly overwhelmed, it eventually shows up physically too. I started paying more attention to how I felt instead of just trying to push through everything all the time. At some point your body basically sends you a strongly worded email.
Some daily habits that help me feel my best are getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, eating more balanced meals, eating more protein, and trying new fruits and vegetables. I’ve also been learning not to ignore what my mind and body are telling me. Over time, I’ve become more intentional about tracking my health in ways that feel realistic and manageable for me. I received an Oura Ring, and it’s been surprisingly helpful for keeping track of my sleep and recovery. Between that and my Apple Watch, I’ve become much more aware of my habits and how small changes can make a big difference.
Over time, my definition of wellness has changed a lot. I used to think being healthy mainly meant being skinny, but now I see wellness as something much deeper. It’s mental, emotional, and physical. It’s setting boundaries, managing stress, getting rest, moving your body, and protecting your peace. I think true wellness is about feeling balanced and functioning well, not trying to meet some unrealistic idea of perfection.
One unexpected benefit of prioritizing my wellbeing has been becoming more self-aware. I’ve gotten better at recognizing what drains me and what actually helps me feel grounded. I’ve also learned that rest is productive sometimes, even though society likes to act like burnout deserves a trophy.
My advice to anyone who feels overwhelmed about improving their health is to start small. You do not have to completely change your life overnight. Small habits really do add up. Drink more water, rest more, take a walk, spend less time stressing yourself out trying to be perfect. Consistency matters more than perfection. Wellness should feel sustainable, not like punishment. Just keep going no matter how long it takes.