Elizabeth's Story

Merriam-Webster defines harmony as a pleasing arrangement of parts, and for Elizabeth Adams, that harmony is a big part of what well-being means to her. To Adams, well-being is a peace of mind where there is a give-and-take in someone’s work life, home life and outside interests.

The pursuit of harmony comes in working out seven days a week, walking every day and taking advantage of the Rec Center using the stairmaster. The physical aspect helps clear her mind and think about what she has going on during the day.

“I come here during my lunch hour every day, and that helps me process problems, student concerns, in my mind while I'm here.” she says. “Walk in strong, walk out stronger.”

At home, Adams focuses on self-care whether that be walking the dog to relieve stress and reflect on her day or meditating and stretching before bed. She cites these as helping her keep harmony in her life.

“Harmony is key to reenergizing me and fueling my mind and body with positive energy so I can feel renewed to face the challenges at work and provide the most positive assistance to students and team members,” she adds.

Back at OU, she finds her motivation when working out next to the students as they remind her of why she is doing what she does. Asides from general working out, she will also participate in classes at Rec Well where she can relax and refresh from the problems she solves at work and will even brainstorm ideas when taking classes with colleagues.

Some of the classes Adams has been involved in are the cycle class, yoga, body blast, shred class and bootcamp classes. Starting with the CARROT app, it would include rewards and added motivation and she’s stuck with it since.

This wellness journey has always been a part of her lifestyle, running in high school and actually being an instructor at Bally Total Fitness. She has always been inspired by fitness and also finds inspiration at work through the success of others.

“Just seeing how things work out, accomplishing things, even small things. That inspires me that we can make a difference on campus,” Adams says.