Blog #4

 Day #4 5/12

After my first few days of the senior project were filled with lots of physical activity like hiking, baseball, and practice for the play, I needed a more relaxed day. I got up and ate breakfast in the dining hall before heading to the library and getting to work. I planned out a few potential posters and infographics I could make to help out others based on what I’ve learned. The more focused I become on the mind and body connection I realize how important it is to our everyday lives. Eating the right foods to keep healthy and getting enough sleep has far more of an impact on your moods and energy which directly correlates to your mental health. This led me to research gut health and I was completely shocked to learn how crucial gut health is to emotional well-being. Depending on the bacteria you intake from your food, your body will produce more or fewer chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. This helped me look at the physical aspect of the biopsychosocial model and realize that taking care of you’re body doesn't just mean getting exercise and staying fit, the intention behind your diet plays an important role. I am learning so many new things each day that feel important for everyone to know so they can take proper care of themselves and their mental health. I’m excited to begin the process of teaching others ways they can help themselves and their peers around them. After a hot baseball practice that included a swim at the swinging bridge, I grabbed a good dinner and joined in on the captains' practice for soccer. I was feeling cooped up when I came back for study hall I decided to go on a short walk to complete my daily journal. Completing a journal outside every day is said to help with gratitude and staying grounded and therefore I have completed one journal each day where I write about whatever I’m thinking at the moment, whether it’s about me or the world. It was a moment where I was able to relax and just be present, not worrying about texts or notifications on my phone allowed me to think more clearly. Overall it was another successful day with my project headed in the right direction and I look forward to whatever tomorrow brings.

Hours: 5

Total Hours: 18

Time written: 10pm on 5/12