Health & Wellness

Our overall wellness includes not only our physical health, but also our mental health. When it comes to “staying in shape” there are many strategies we can use. Taking the stairs instead of the elevator, eating a more balanced diet, and staying hydrated are some examples.

Taking care of our mental health is equally important. It’s also something many of us don't make a conscious effort to do. Many people take mental health for granted. They see it as, “I’m not showing any symptoms. I must be in good shape”.

Our mental wellbeing is much more than if we’re showing symptoms. It starts with feeling good about who you are. It's about experiencing balance in your life and in your thinking — responding constructively to life’s highs and lows.

Wellness is built upon the foundation of overall health.
Here are two tips and advice on protecting and improving your overall wellness:

Exercise
Exercise benefits our overall wellness — physical and mental health. Exercise has been shown to:

• Relieve stress & anxiety
• Reduce muscle tension
• Improve blood flow

People that exercise regularly are flooding their body with feel-good chemicals. Exercise has also been shown to reduce symptoms of mild depression. Note: if you or someone you love might be suffering from depression, please consult your family doctor.

Tip: Want to have a big change? Start with the small changes. Start walking at lunch or playing outside with the kids. Start with some realistic goals before you purchase a year’s membership at the gym.

Eat well
When you eat right, you’re improving your overall physical health. The evidence suggests that healthy eating can help boost your sense of wellbeing. Start by eliminating processed food. Healthy meals can keep your mood and energy levels balanced throughout the day.

Tip: If you feel overwhelmed with making changes to your diet, then consulting a licensed nutritionist or dietitian is worth the investment. Check first with your health care plan if you have one.