Tip #1- “Small Choices, Big Impact! Yearly goals are made up of daily decisions. Become mindful of how the decisions you make today impact where you find yourself next year. “

Gabrielle Compton, MS

Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern

Tip #2- “Focus on others and what you can do to lift them up. You will often find that this brings you peace and joy as well.”

Dr. Vicky Findley, Medical Director South San Marco Clinic

Tip #3- “Prioritize Rest: Prioritizing rest helps improve mood, boost energy, and supports your overall well-being. Try setting a consistent bedtime and creating a calming evening routine to help you unwind."

Jovelyn Shuler
Program Manager/EMR Trainer

Tip#4- Let Go of What Drains You and Make Room for What Energizes You. You are not obligated to continue any tradition or activity that leaves you feeling broke, overwhelmed or tired.

Tip #5- “Try to eat a balanced healthy diet at least 80% of the time, 20% of the time indulge without regret. Get at least 40 to 50 minutes of exercise in the Sun!”

Tip #6- “"Buckle up every time—even in the back seat! Kids should always use a car seat, booster, or seat belt suited to their age and size. Need help with car seat installation? Reach out to Safe Kids Northeast Florida for expert guidance!"”

Tip #7- “Community engagement is good for everyone. Making an impact on your community can greatly increase volunteer’s sense of self, confidence, and connectedness! Volunteering can be done anytime by anyone! Reach out to a nonprofit near you to get involved!”

Tip#8- Make space for creativity! Whether through creating art or appreciating the work of others, engaging with creativity boosts mood, self-confidence, and connection. Explore Jacksonville’s museums, festivals, and outdoor art installations to spark inspiration and enjoy the creative energy around you.”

Laura Minnich, LMHC,
Lead Clinical Counselor

Tip #9- “Develop an attitude of gratitude. From both a psychological and physiological point of view , being grateful is good for your health.”

Tip #10- “Take a hike!! Literally go outside and be one with nature. Being outside and communing with nature has significant health benefits such as improved blood pressure, normalizing blood sugar, and improving balance.”

Tip #11- “Prioritize your peace by focusing on what you can control and letting go of what you can't. Stressing over the uncontrollable only drains your energy—channel that energy into self-care, mindfulness, and finding joy in the present moment instead.” – Krista Cribbs, Medical Assistant

Tip #12- “Avoid processed foods which tend to be high in salt, sugar, additives and fat, try to incorporate more fruits and vegetables and substitute processed snacks for nuts.”

Jennifer Ryan, MPH, Chief Executive Officer

Tip #13- “Rest, Recharge, and Reconnect with Yourself. Be sure to give your body time to rest and recharge. Take a walk, go to bed a little earlier, read a book, or just be still and reflect.

Tip #14- Declutter Your Digital Life: Your mental health matters, and your screen time can impact it more than you think. Set boundaries with your devices, clean up your inbox, and unfollow accounts that don’t inspire you.

Michelle Esau,
Marketing and Outreach Manager

Tip #15 -Everything in moderation…. including moderation! (So, splurge every once in a while,).

Kickstart Your Year: Tips from the VIM Team to Boost Your Body, Mind & Soul!

Transforming Lives: Over 20 Years of Quality Care for the Working Uninsured