February 2026 with DCNS: My wellness journey

This month with Denise at DCNS

Wellness Resources - Schedules and Calendars

This month, I share the tools and resources that I use to help set achievable new year wellness goals. My calendar and day planner created by my favorite artist helps me plan my daily goals. Each day, I plan to finish three tasks. If I don't complete them, then I take the time to analyze why and break the goal into smaller tasks. As someone once said, "A goal without a plan is just a wish!"

Self-care Apps and Relaxation Resources:

Another resource is my self-care app from my healthcare system. I focus on prayer in the morning and use the app's sleepcasts, meditation, or mindfulness exercises to relax. As I drift off to sleep, I create a thankful list.

Exercise Resources:

I use a race roster to locate local race walks /and foot races, and to keep track of my walking times and fitness level. Participating in walks gives me the motivation to train and during the week and to not slack off even when it's tempting. Walking is also an enjoyable way to stay active, meet new people, and to enjoy the outdoors. This year, I aim to schedule at least 6 race-walks and to try and improve my completion time toward my fitness goals for this year.

Food & Nutrition: A balanced diet is extremely important in my wellness maintenance plan. As a dietitian and certified chef, I am always aware of the need to plan meals that are satisfying, and that provide the USDA suggested daily nutrition intake. I also work closely with my doctor to tailor my nutrition and hydration to my activity level, age, and medical needs.

I hope that by sharing my wellness resources, you'll get an idea of ways to make your own goals and to seek resources that fit your needs in maintaining wellness. in all areas of your life.

In the Garden this month:

I decided to add an update on our community garden activities for ideas on what to plant, what to harvest, and how to manage the change of seasons.

February is usually our time for allowing the ground to rest. About 1/2 of our community garden plot is covered in straw and we water occasionally to avoid letting the ground become too compacted and hard. Since the seasons are often unpredictable now, we adjust the Spring planting schedule based on the bi-weekly weather prediction for our region, zone 9.

We have lots of lettuce, green onions, and celery and some carrots, which grow throughout the year. We've begun to harvest our daikon radish, as well. After harvesting, we try to find ways to consume the entire plant, including, leaves and roots and vegetables, even if we end up cooking or pickling parts of the plant to make it more palatable. This month's recipe includes our last carrot harvest, green onions, white onions, and cabbage from our produce box delivery.

Please let us know what's happening in your garden and how you prepare and enjoy your harvest!