Rediscovering Wellness: A Journey Beyond Physical Activity

Krista Sheehan | Wellness Lead, ARTA

Physical activity has been ingrained in me from a very early age. It was a staple in our household growing up and, in many ways, defined who I was then and shaped the person I’ve become. When I reflect on what the term “wellness” meant to me during those years, it truly didn’t exist — physical activity was my definition of health.

My competitive spirit always pushed me to be better, stronger, and faster. I wanted to reach the next level, earn that gold medal, and achieve something greater. But as time went on, so did life — kids, aging parents, work, and the unexpected challenges that followed a motor vehicle collision. Don’t get me wrong, I have enjoyed these life transitions (well… almost all of them!) but if I’m being honest, my body and mind are a little less nimble than they once were, and finding the time, energy, and motivation to stay active has become more challenging.

So, when I was given the opportunity to participate in many of this year’s ARTA Wellness Walks during Seniors’ Week, I was excited to plant a new seed — or perhaps better yet, nourish one that had always been there. As ARTA’s Wellness Lead, I knew I needed to “walk the talk” (pun fully intended!). I needed to demonstrate to myself that I could honour ARTA’s commitment to member wellness — and that meant starting with me.

More Than Just a Walk

As the first week of June approached, I felt prepared for the logistics of the walks, thanks to ARTA’s incredible Marketing team. But what I wasn’t fully prepared for was how this seemingly simple initiative would shift my perspective.

Despite the similarly unpredictable weather, each branch walk was unique — none better than another, but tailored to the nuances of its members and community. One branch combined the walk with its prescheduled Spring into Summer Luncheon; another included a visit to a local brewery. Two embraced encounters with wildlife like goslings and moose, while another navigated construction and a washed-out trail. Despite the differences, there were clear commonalities and a deeper purpose.

Members expressed how excited they were to explore different parts of the province. I observed them taking in the peaceful sounds of nature and capture special moments along the way. There was laughter shared amongst lifelong friends, and new connections being formed. The sense of pride was palpable as food bank donations were gathered and prepared for delivery to local charities.



However you define or envision wellness, it became clear to me that these walks offered something far beyond movement: connection, purpose, and experience. My competitive spirit is still alive and well, but these experiences reinforced that my focus has shifted toward intrinsic rewards, the interconnectedness of wellness dimensions, and how they holistically benefit both my body and mind.

As I reflect on my experiences with ARTA’s 2026 Wellness Walks, I want to sincerely thank the branch members who organized and hosted each event, as well as those who braved the unpredictable weather to participate in the walks or the accompanying events. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity for newfound camaraderie, local history lessons, shared laughter (including a few terrible jokes), meaningful life reflections, soaking wet clothes — and, most importantly, a renewed and nourished sense of wellness.

I look forward to continuing this journey with ARTA members and staff. I encourage each of you to reflect on what wellness meant to you growing up, what it means to you now, and how you envision it for your future.

In health and happiness,
Krista

Krista Sheehan
Wellness Lead, ARTA