As communities across the country marked Mental Health Awareness Month, a local fitness professional emphasized the connection between physical activity and emotional well-being, encouraging residents to view health through a broader lens.
Sheri Figueroa, a certified personal trainer who lives in Hickory Hills, said her work in fitness has reinforced the idea that mental and physical health are deeply intertwined. While she does not have a formal background in mental health, Figueroa said she has seen firsthand how caring for the body can positively influence the mind.
Hickory Hills trainer Sheri Figueroa highlights the strong link between physical fitness and mental health during Mental Health Awareness Month. (Supplied photo)
“Mental health plays a huge role in our physical health, and vice versa,” she said. “In order to achieve a balance of optimal health, we need to be aware of both in unison.”
Observed each May since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month was established to raise public awareness about mental health challenges, reduce stigma and highlight the importance of emotional well-being as part of overall health. Figueroa said those goals align closely with the principles she promotes in her training.
Figueroa earned an associate degree from Moraine Valley Community College and holds certifications as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor through the International Sports Science Association and the National Council for Certified Personal Trainers.
Through her work, she encourages clients to consider more than just physical outcomes when setting goals. She said maintaining a healthy lifestyle involves paying attention to the mind, body and overall sense of well-being.
Figueroa said getting involved in Mental Health Awareness Month does not require large-scale efforts. Instead, she encouraged individuals to begin with self-reflection and small, consistent steps.
“People can get involved by becoming aware of the status of their own mental health and working on maintaining a healthy mind, body and soul,” she said.
She added that mental health, like any other aspect of wellness, requires ongoing care.
“Just like all components of health, our mental health requires attention, care and maintenance to thrive,” Figueroa said.
As awareness efforts continue throughout May, Figueroa hopes more people will recognize the importance of integrating physical activity with mental health care, creating a more balanced approach to overall wellness.
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