A new year offers a fresh start, and with that, a chance to pause, reflect, and set intentions that support our whole selves. Here in Black Hawk County, many of us juggle work, family, caregiving, community responsibilities, and everything in between. It’s easy to put our own needs last. But in 2026, we’re encouraging women, parents, and families to shift that narrative. 

At YWCA Black Hawk County, our mission guides everything we do:

Eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

Caring for our mental, physical, and financial health is one way we strengthen not just ourselves, but our community too.

This 2026 Wellness Checklist is designed to help you care for your mental, physical, and financial health, because true wellness starts from the inside out. And the best part? The YWCA is here to support you every step of the way.

1. Prioritize Your Mental Wellness

We know that many women here carry multiple roles: employee, caretaker, parent, advocate, student, friend. Mental health struggles aren’t always visible, and many of us were raised to “push through” or “be strong.” In 2026, let’s redefine strength as asking for help and caring for our minds with the same urgency we care for others.

Mental Wellness Checklist for 2026:

  • Do a weekly mental “temperature check”: How am I really doing?
  • Build (or update) your support circle of your go-to people when life feels heavy
  • Set boundaries around social media, work, and emotional labor
  • Pick 1–2 self-care habits that fit your lifestyle
  • Know the signs of burnout, anxiety, depression, and seasonal affective disorder

If you’re struggling, you’re not alone; many in our community are navigating the same challenges.

Try this: Commit to one small daily habit that brings calm (ex: five minutes of deep breathing before bed, or a short walk during lunch).

Local Support Through YWCA:

Our programs help build confidence, connection, and mental resilience, especially for women, youth, and families. Explore our  YWCA programs to find community and support.

2. Put Your Physical Health First

Access to care and staying active through Iowa’s winters can be tough, especially if childcare, time, or transportation are barriers. The new year is a great time to plan ahead and prioritize preventive care.

Physical Wellness Checklist for 2026:

  • Schedule your annual check-ups now (primary care, dental & eye exam)
  • Stay up-to-date on important screenings
    • Women’s wellness exam
    • Mammogram (age- or risk-based)
    • Blood pressure and heart health checks
  • Find movement that brings you joy, not stress
  • Build a sleep routine that helps you recharge

Where the YWCA Helps Locally:

Our affordable Health & Wellness classes, including indoor aqua aerobics and fitness options, offer a warm, welcoming place to stay active year-round. See what works for your schedule on our facility schedule.

3. Strengthen Your Financial Wellness

Financial wellness is emotional wellness. Money stress affects mental health, family dynamics, and future security, and many women in Black Hawk County carry financial responsibilities for their households.

You don’t need a big income to build financial confidence. Small steps lead to big impact.

Financial Wellness Checklist for 2026:

  • Create or refresh your household budget
  • Set a small, realistic savings goal (even $10 per paycheck helps)
  • Check your credit score and review your credit report
  • Have a “money talk” with your partner or family without shame
  • Explore free community financial education resources

Financial empowerment is part of self-advocacy, and aligns with the YWCA mission to uplift women and strengthen equity in our community.

4. Grow Your Social & Community Wellness

A strong community is a healthy community. Humans aren’t meant to do life alone, and staying connected improves happiness, longevity, and resilience. Supporting one another is part of who we are in Black Hawk County.

Community Wellness Checklist for 2026:

  • Join a local group, class, or community program
  • Attend at least one community event each season — winter, spring, summer, fall
  • Volunteer your time or skills to a cause you care about
  • Support women-owned, Black-owned, and locally-owned businesses in our area
  • Check in on a neighbor, friend, or family member regularly

YWCA as Your Community Anchor:

We support women and families through empowerment, equity work, health programs, and inclusive community spaces. See how you can get involved in 2026, through membership, classes, or community events.

Start 2026 with Compassion for Yourself

Wellness isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress, grace, and remembering that you deserve care too. If this checklist feels overwhelming, choose just one item from each section to start. Even small changes can make a big difference over time.

As we step into 2026, remember this:

You are worthy of rest. You are worthy of support. You are worthy of a healthy, joyful life.

At YWCA Black Hawk County, we’ll continue working alongside you to build a community where women, children, and families thrive together.

Ready to Make 2026 Your Wellness Year?

Explore programs, events, and resources at: https://www.ywcabhc.org/