Provide a brief introduction about yourself.
Hey! My name is Carina Larbig, and I am the Events Coordinator for the College of Education. I am from Frankfurt, Germany, and moved to the States with my husband in 2022. I have been working for UA since May. Outside of work, I spend most of my time playing board games with friends, reading, hiking, running, or gardening.
Tell us about a recent wellness success you have had.
I reduced my phone screen time from around four hours daily to one and a half hours.
What are some tips you have for maintaining your work-life balance?
Step away from your computer during lunch break, and do not check your emails outside work hours. I love my job, but I know it is okay not to be available 24/7.
Do you have a favorite wellness program that helped you meet a goal?
I have partaken in so many programs and classes that it is hard to pick just one because they all have been helpful. The one that had the most impact was the UREC Summer Heat Program, which helped me overcome my fear of the gym and sign up for personal training sessions. Now I actually like weight and strength training! As for my goal (running the Tuscaloosa Half Marathon next year), I am not there yet but moving in the right direction.
What advice do you have for someone trying to improve their overall wellbeing?
Wellbeing is a constant journey, and things will take time to have an effect. And you will need to make adjustments along the way.
Having goals is motivating, and I believe that leaving your comfort zone is crucial for reaching those goals. But all that can become frustrating if you pressure yourself too much. So, instead of focusing on what you cannot (yet) do, focus on what you can do. For example, if you do not have the time or energy for a 30-minute walk, try going for 5-10 minutes instead. Progress can be measured in so many better ways than the numbers on a scale. Like reps and weight used during an exercise, steps walked, etc.
Read more inspiring wellness stories, tips for maintaining a healthy routine, and meet all the UA Spotlight on Wellness employees from this year.