By Lillian Hart
I used to think “well-being” was a checklist—drink more water, exercise, eat clean, sleep eight hours. And while those are all valuable (and I still aim for them!), I’ve come to realize that true health is deeper. It’s layered. It’s emotional, spiritual, relational—not just physical.
Over the years, I’ve developed a few strategies that help me feel whole—not perfect, but grounded. Some were born out of burnout, others through trial and error. I share them here not as a prescription, but as gentle invitations—ways you might find your own rhythm for a more balanced, soul-honoring life.
1. Creating Space to Slow Down
My first strategy isn’t glamorous, but it’s everything: slowing down.
We live in a culture that rewards hustle. But I’ve found that when I’m constantly busy, I become numb—to my body, to God, to what I truly need.
So I carve out small moments for stillness. Five minutes in the morning with my journal. A short walk without my phone. A cup of tea in silence before bed.
These pauses help me hear myself again. They remind me I don’t have to earn my worth through constant doing.
2. Morning Meditation & Prayer
Starting my day with morning meditation and prayer has transformed the way I move through the world.
I don’t do anything elaborate. Most mornings, I sit with a Bible verse, breathe slowly, and offer a simple prayer like:
“God, guide my thoughts today. Help me stay present.”
Sometimes I follow up with journaling. Other times I just sit in silence. It’s a practice of re-centering, and it helps me begin the day anchored rather than reactive.
3. Listening to My Body, Not Just My Schedule
This one took me years to learn: My body has wisdom, even when it disagrees with my planner.
There are days when I plan to push through—clean the house, finish a project, hit the gym—but my body says: Please rest.
I’ve started honoring that voice.
Sometimes self-care looks like movement. Other times, it’s letting go of guilt and choosing rest. Either way, listening to what my body needs helps me avoid burnout and feel more aligned with myself.
4. Nourishing Foods Without Obsession
I’ve had seasons where I was hyper-focused on food rules. And seasons where I barely paid attention at all. These days, I aim for balance—nourishing my body with real food, while also enjoying a slice of cake without shame.
My rule now? Eat like someone you love.
That one shift—thinking of my body as a beloved friend—changed everything.
5. Tending to My Mental Health
This might be the most important part of my well-being strategy: protecting and tending to my mind.
I do this through:
- Limiting screen time, especially in the morning and at night
- Saying no to things that drain me
- Seeing a therapist when needed
- Practicing gratitude daily (even just one sentence in a journal)
I’ve also learned that mental clarity often comes through spiritual connection. When I neglect prayer, solitude, or reflection, my anxiety creeps up. But when I regularly create space for God, my mind feels more at peace.
6. Nurturing Meaningful Relationships
We weren’t meant to go through life alone.
Part of my health and well-being means surrounding myself with people who are kind, honest, and life-giving. Whether it’s a text check-in with a close friend, a phone call with my mom, or a walk with my husband, I try to invest in relationships that fuel my soul—not deplete it.
Even on busy days, small moments of connection go a long way.
7. Practicing Sabbath (Even Imperfectly)
One rhythm I’ve slowly been reclaiming is Sabbath.
Not in a legalistic way—but in a “let my soul breathe” kind of way.
On Sundays (or sometimes Saturdays), I try to unplug. No social media, no work. Just rest, worship, and joy. I read books, take naps, go outside, or spend time with loved ones.
Even if I don’t do it perfectly, the intention alone resets my spirit.
8. Letting Go of Perfection
Last but not least: I no longer strive to get it all “right.”
There are weeks when I skip workouts, eat takeout, forget to pray, and feel scattered. But I’ve learned to offer myself grace. To return to my rhythm without shame.
Health and well-being aren’t about achieving a flawless routine. They’re about showing up for yourself with love and consistency.
Final Thoughts
So, what strategies do I use to maintain my health and well-being?
I breathe. I pray. I listen. I rest. I connect. I forgive myself when I forget.
And slowly, I become more whole—not because I do it all perfectly, but because I trust that God is shaping me gently, day by day.
If you’re looking for your own rhythm, start small. Listen inward. And remember: you don’t have to fix everything overnight. Sometimes the most healing thing you can do is just be kind to yourself today.
About the Author
Lillian Hart is a writer, journal creator, and mental wellness advocate who believes in living slowly, loving deeply, and honoring the soul’s pace. Through CrowRow Guide, she offers reflective tools to support spiritual growth and emotional healing. Find her at crowrowguide.com
Whispers Of Grace 
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