A career is more than a paycheck. It is a way of life. One of the first things someone learns about a person is whom they work for and what they do. Some people go to work each morning, unhappy and stressed, but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Some of the healthiest jobs, based upon health benefits, work environment, stress, and flexibility are fitness instructors, florists, chiropractors, health professionals, and tenured professors based on information from jobs.aol.com, monster.com and foxnews.com

These five jobs have one thing in common—they help others while helping themselves. 

A choreographer, yoga instructor, and personal trainer all have health benefits because they are exercising throughout the day. Always being in good shape can help self-image and release stress from their personal lives.

A gardener, landscaper or florist was also included. Being out in nature can greatly reduce stress, says Monster.com career and finance expert, Dona DeZube. 

Chiropractors, along with careers in health professions, were also high on the list. 

Jan Mead, assistant director of Career Services, works with students daily who want to change their job or major. Career Services is located in Grace Wilkie Hall and assists students with finding a better career. 

Rarely does Mead see students who want to change their major from healthcare.

“Maybe that’s because it’s pretty solid,” Mead said. 

They aren’t concerned about job loss, and because of their training they know how to deal with stress. 

Mead said nurses, especially, have control over their shift and work in a caring environment. 

State employees, such as faculty and professors, also are low-stress options, Mead said. 

“We have a 24-hour nurse line and we receive coaching for stress reduction, weight loss and exercise.”

Tenured professors choose two to three classes to teach and create their own schedule. 

“You need to find a job you really, really love,” Mead said. “You need to find something that gives you a lot of satisfaction, and work for an organization that values its people.”

Students in a bad situation need to look toward their long-term goals and gradually move toward a different job, Mead said. Take a class and pursue an education while still working and find stress relief. 

Don’t forget to try career exploration or job search at Career Services.