One Ring to Rule Them All

Tomorrow kicks off #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth 💙

When we think about “health,” we often zoom in on what we eat, how much we move, or how much sleep we get. But health isn’t just about habits — it’s about the systems and spaces that shape those habits, too.

In fact, your ZIP code may matter more than your genetic code. 🤯

That’s because our built environment — the neighborhoods, parks, roads, and public spaces around us — influences six major pillars of health: how we eat, move, sleep, connect, manage stress, and avoid harmful substances.

From leafy streets to cozy gathering spots, our environment deeply shapes what feels possible and sustainable in our day-to-day lives.

So this May, let’s widen our view of wellness. Let’s remember that health is broader than just the physical; it's biopsychosocial— shaped not just by our bodies, but by our minds, our relationships, and the spaces we inhabit.

Let’s explore the many determinants of health — from our biology and behaviors to where we live and who we’re surrounded by. And let’s give ourselves a little extra grace: every walk, every boundary, every moment of rest counts. 🍃

👉 Want to learn more? This recent study from the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine makes a strong case for rethinking health beyond just calories and cardio:

"One Ring to Contain Them All: The Pivotal Role of the Built Environment in All Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine" 🔗https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/15598276251329818