Beyond the Gym: How Ridgewood Smashed a 1-Million Minute Wellness Goal

Ridgewood Mayor Paul Vagianos challenged the community to log one million “minutes of wellness” in just three months

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, When Ridgewood Mayor Paul Vagianos challenged the community to log one million “minutes of wellness” in just three months, critics called it a lofty goal. But in a stunning display of community spirit, the Garden State’s premier village didn’t just meet the mark—they absolutely crushed it.

As of January 2026, the final tally is in: Ridgewood residents officially logged 1,386,971 minutes of health and wellness activities.

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What Exactly is a “Wellness Minute”?

This wasn’t just about training for marathons or hitting the treadmill. The Mayor’s Wellness Campaign redefined what it means to be healthy in the modern age. To reach the million-minute milestone, residents focused on five pillars of well-being:

1. Physical: Traditional exercise, hiking, and healthy eating.
2. Emotional: Mindfulness, therapy, and stress-management techniques.
3. Spiritual: Meditation, prayer, and moments of quiet reflection.
4. Intellectual: Reading, learning new skills, and engaging the mind.
5. Social: Community gatherings, volunteering, and strengthening bonds with neighbors.

“Wellness is more than just a workout,” Mayor Vagianos said. “It’s about intellectual and social health, too. I am so proud of how our community stepped up to make wellness a central part of their lives.”

Behind the Scenes: The Ridgewood Health Department

While the residents did the heavy lifting, the Ridgewood Health Department provided the framework. By organizing community walks, educational seminars, and tracking tools, they turned a personal journey into a collective mission.

The success of this campaign highlights a growing trend in New Jersey: municipalities taking an active role in the holistic health of their residents.

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What’s Next: Is 2 Million the New Target?

With the one-million-minute barrier shattered, the question on everyone’s lips is: What happens in 2027? The Mayor has already floated the idea of doubling down on the success. “What do you think,” Vagianos asked on social media, “should we aim for two million minutes next year?”

Given the momentum and the increased focus on mental and social health following the events of the past few years, the Village seems more than ready to take on the challenge.

3 Ways You Can Keep the Momentum Going

You don’t have to wait for the next official campaign to prioritize your wellness. Here is how you can contribute to the “Ridgewood Standard”:

• Join a Local Club: Whether it’s a book club at the library or a hiking group at the Duck Pond, social wellness is key.
• Visit the Health Department: Check the Village website for upcoming screenings and wellness workshops.
• Track Your Own Minutes: Start a personal log to see how much of your day is dedicated to your mental and physical longevity.

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