The Power of Movement and Mindfulness: Michelle’s Running Story

One single choice, like starting a running goal or spending more time in mindful movement, can have positive ripple effects for your whole health. When you set a new goal, you might be surprised by the physical, mental and emotional benefits you discover along the way.

Keep reading to learn more about Michelle Bartolome’s story, including how she was inspired by the mission of AdventHealth and how she uses running, mindfulness and community connection to feel whole in body, mind and spirit.

Michelle’s Next Step

Michelle is always looking for her next challenge. And as an avid runner, she’s constantly looking for ways to push herself. While she began chasing what she thought was just another goal, she realized it was something more. For Michelle, running became a form of mindful movement, helping her stay active while creating space to reflect, recharge and connect with the world around her.

Motivated by Mission

“I’ve been waiting my whole life to run every street in my city,” said Michelle. “I heard about this from another Rotarian [Rotary International club member] who’s doing the same thing in the city of Jacksonville, and there really is no endgame. It’s taken me about six months to get where I’m at now, so it’ll take me about six months more or so to get there.”

With every new street traveled, she began to realize what was motivating her. As an AdventHealth team member, Michelle believes in the mission of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ and chasing whatever makes you feel whole. Throughout her running journey, Michelle learned that AdventHealth’s mission extends beyond its hospitals and facilities.

For her, running is more than nurturing her physical health — it’s a way to explore new things and practice mindfulness. Pursuing the mission of AdventHealth while exploring her city unlocked mental and emotional benefits she never would have expected.

“I’m so grateful for the values that we have as an organization,” said Michelle. “It’s so important to have that mission as a team member. I love that I’m able to really live that out and feel like I can follow that with my family. It’s been amazing to get to see so many new spots in my city that I didn’t even know existed, and running through different neighborhoods, you’re taking it in at such a different pace that you’re actually getting to see your city. I know I talk about running all the time, so I hope I can inspire others to do the same.” If you’re looking for simple ways to add more movement into your routine, our guide to the health benefits of walking 10K steps a day offers practical ideas to help you get started.

Whole-Health Support at Every Age

At AdventHealth, we want to help you feel whole in body, mind and spirit. From primary care and wellness care to sports medicine and rehab care, our teams are here to support your health goals with compassionate, whole-person care.

Discover more stories of people who filled their lives with more living.