Mental Health Awareness Month, Is It Time For Pickleball?, Hybrid Workers - Tips For Working From Home
Mental Health Awareness Month
Every year, May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month. Originally established in 1949, it has become a time for all of us to not only increase our awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in our lives, but also to better understand the coping strategies and resources available to us. It is vital to understand the role that mental health plays in our overall health and well-being. So, let’s reduce that stigma!
The everyday struggle can be and is real for so many individuals who may be struggling with their own mental health and well-being. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that more than 1 in 5 U.S. adults lives with a mental illness that can encompass many categories and vary in the degree of severity. Coping strategies can become key to just surviving the day. Effective strategies can help manage stress and
improve your overall mental health. Don’t be afraid to explore techniques like mindfulness and exercise, and never be ashamed to seek support. For more coping strategy ideas, click here.
Just remember, you don’t have to do it alone. If you’re struggling with your own mental health and well-being, never be afraid to ask for help! Not only can you talk to your own medical professional about it, but if you're afraid to, there are other options. Click on the links below to explore some of them:
Is it time for Pickleball?
Well, springtime is here, and that means it’s time to put the cold weather, snow, and ice behind us, get outside, move more, and enjoy that sunshine and warmer weather! The CDC reports that only 20% of Americans report getting enough physical activity. So, if you are looking for a new hobby to assist you in getting in that much-needed movement, don’t mind being indoors or outdoors to work out, and may enjoy some adult-sized ping pong, it may be time to look at Pickleball!
Now you may be thinking, what exactly is Pickleball? This paddled sport began in 1965 and can be played as singles or doubles, indoors or outdoors. This blended game of tennis, badminton, and table tennis is played on a badminton-sized court, but with a much lower net. With a required underhand serve and a two-bounce rule, you don’t have to worry about being surprised by your opponent hitting the ball back at you right off the serve. Games move quickly, and the first person/team to 11 wins, but you must win by 2!
So if you are looking for some casual fun, or a competitive adventure, this could be it! Pickleball is accessible to people of all ages and abilities. The game is easy to learn and fun for all. For more information on the sport, or to find a location to play near you, visit: USA Pickleball. Your new adventure could be right around the corner, and could kickstart your health in the right direction!
Hybrid Workers - Tips for Working from Home
Working from home isn’t a new concept. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that in 2019, approximately 6.9% of private-sector workers worked from home. However, since the COVID-19 epidemic in 2020, there has been a drastic shift in work environments across the country. If you are currently working from home on a hybrid schedule, consider the two key tips below:
Create a Workspace: Have a workspace that is all your own and dedicated solely to work. Distractions should be kept to a minimum, and your workspace should be set up to support your work. Is yours? If you are unsure about your home workspace setup, reach out! We can help evaluate your workspace and ensure you are set up to maintain great ergonomic posture and minimize the risk of soft-tissue injuries.
Take Plenty of Breaks: We often forget to take a break when working from home. Use the 20-20-20 rule to reset your eyes, get up and move at least once an hour to avoid maintaining the same posture for extended periods, and use the micropause in your workday to do some stretching. We have examples to get you started!
