By Melesha Bailey, UniteNews Contributing Writer
Spring is more than just a change in weather- it’s a call to reset, realign, and restore. For many of us who juggle the demands of work, family, and health challenges, spring offers a powerful opportunity to reclaim our wellness with a true transformation that begins with the three pillars: Faith, Food, and Fitness.
Pillar #1 FAITH: Fuel for the Soul
Faith is the anchor in African American and minority communities. It’s our comfort in hard times and our guide through uncertainty. But in the hustle of life, we sometimes forget to slow down, breathe, and reconnect with the spiritual practices that restore our inner peace.
Prayer, meditation, and reflection are more than just spiritual acts—they’re forms of emotional and mental wellness. For instance, you could start your day with a prayer of gratitude, spend a few minutes meditating, or reflect on a scripture that resonates with you. Studies show that regular spiritual practices reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and even improve heart health. Whether reading scripture, journaling, or simply sitting in silence, reconnecting with your faith is the first step in your spring reset.
Reset tip: Start your day with 5 minutes of gratitude and prayer before reaching for your phone. Pay attention to how positive your day will be.
Pillar #2 FOOD: Eat to Live, Not Live to Eat
Food is love in many of our households, but sometimes it’s our downfall. Diet-related chronic illnesses like hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease continue to impact minority communities at alarming rates. The good news is that many of these conditions are preventable or manageable with the right foods, exercise, and mindset.
Let’s return to the garden—literally and figuratively—this spring. Many of our grandparents had gardens. It’s time to grow our food. This spring, focus on seasonal fruits, leafy greens, whole grains, and lean proteins. Try plant-based meals that nourish your body without spiking your blood sugar or having too much sodium. Swap processed snacks for colorful produce and hydrate like your life depends on it—because it does.
Reset tip: Do a pantry purge. Let go of processed, salty, or sugary items and replace them with whole foods. Your heart and your waistline will thank you.
Pillar #3 FITNESS: Movement is Medicine
You don’t need a gym membership to get moving. Fitness can be a walk in the park, a dance break with your kids or grandchildren, or stretching before bed. Movement helps lower blood pressure, reduce blood sugar, improve sleep, and release feel-good endorphins.
For communities of color, where stress and health disparities are high, consistent movement is not optional—it’s essential. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress.
Reset tip: Commit to 30 minutes of movement at least 5 days a week. Grab a friend or turn on your favorite music to keep it fun.
Your health is your greatest wealth
As you move through this season, I invite you to embrace the three (3) pillars of wellness—Faith, Food, and Fitness. Start where you are. Use what you have. Take one step today.
And remember: You don’t have to do it alone. You have a whole community beside you. Let’s reset together.
—Coach Melesha
Health & Wealth Protection Specialist | Love 4 Life Wellness
