Bringing Your Family on Your Wellness Journey: Creating a Healthy Next Generation
As we evolve and grow through different stages of life, one of the most beautiful transformations is realising that our health and wellness journey doesn’t have to be a solo endeavour. In fact, when we bring our family—and particularly our children—along for the ride, the impact can be even greater. For me, this journey is something I cherish with my boys, now aged 10, 13, and 15. Together, we enjoy activities like padel, tennis, running, and even hitting the gym. It’s a privilege to experience wellness with them, and it goes beyond staying fit; it’s about nurturing a healthy next generation.
Setting the Example: Leading by Doing
There’s something deeply powerful about leading by example when it comes to health. Our children watch everything we do, and by showing up for ourselves, we are showing them how to take care of their own wellbeing. Studies have found that children who observe their parents engaging in regular physical activity are significantly more likely to adopt healthy habits themselves (American Psychological Association, 2023). It’s not just about telling our children to be active, it’s about being active with them, side by side.
For me, I’ve found this true in my own family and there’s no better feeling than knowing I’m setting an example that could carry them through life.
The Benefits of Active Family Time
It goes without saying that physical activity provides immense benefits for both parents and children, physically and mentally. Research shows that family physical activities, such as sports or outdoor games, help reduce stress, improve mood, and build resilience (Mayo Clinic, 2022). For children, regular exercise promotes better sleep, boosts cognitive performance, and contributes to positive mental health outcomes.
A 2022 study from the British Journal of Sports Medicine revealed that children who engage in family-based physical activities were 70% more likely to maintain a lifelong commitment to fitness. The idea of doing these activities together not only fosters healthy habits but also creates lasting memories. Imagine your child looking back and remembering the joy of running races with you or learning a new sport like padel by your side!
Connecting Across Generations Through Wellness
Involving our children in our health journey offers a unique opportunity to connect on a deeper level.
Being active with your children also allows you to witness their growth and encourage their personal achievements. When they see you pushing yourself, they learn the value of perseverance. When they see you taking care of your body, they understand the importance of self-care. This holistic view of wellness benefits both physical and mental health, creating a ripple effect that could influence their outlook for years to come.
The Ripple Effect: Building a Healthier Generation
By embracing a healthy lifestyle yourself, you’re passing on more than habits—you’re instilling values. Research published in the Journal of Family Health (2022) shows that children who participate in regular physical activity with their parents are not only healthier physically, but they also show better emotional regulation, greater self-esteem, and a stronger sense of community.
The ripple effect of this is immense. You’re not just creating a healthier environment for your children, but also laying the groundwork for how they might approach health and wellness with their own families one day. This intergenerational impact can build a healthier, happier future.
Simple Ways to Get Started with Family Wellness
If you’re looking to bring your children along on your wellness journey, the key is to keep it fun and accessible. Here are a few ways you can integrate wellness into your family’s routine:
Try a new sport together: Whether it’s tennis, padel, or swimming, discover a new sport that everyone can enjoy.
Set a family fitness challenge: Run a 5k, complete a workout challenge, or track your steps together. Make it light-hearted and celebratory.
Get outdoors: Explore local parks, go for family walks, or take up hiking. Nature offers a refreshing change of pace.
Family gym sessions: For older children, introducing them to the gym can be an exciting step. Make it about teamwork and encourage each other’s progress.
It’s Never Too Late to Bring Your Family Along
There’s no perfect time to begin this journey—it’s about starting where you are. Whether your children are still young or entering their teenage years, they will benefit from being part of your wellness routine. You’re not only supporting their physical development, but also showing them how to care for their mental and emotional wellbeing, creating balance that will last a lifetime.
Ultimately, the most rewarding aspect of bringing my boys along with me on this journey is knowing that by looking after my health, I am giving them the tools to look after theirs. Together, we’re building a healthy, active, and happy next generation. And that, to me, is the greatest legacy we can leave behind.
