August is National Wellness Month, a time to evaluate our well-being and improve our overall health and wellness. Research indicates that self-care can increase happiness by up to 71% through managing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. At work, this can include:
- Physical performance: Are we always ready to complete the task at hand in the safest, most professional manner? Are we situationally aware of the safest manner we can complete the job in?
- Mental health: Are we mentally focused and sharp? Do the job responsibilities match our capabilities? Can we manage our stress at work?
- Emotional health: Do we keep our emotions in check when dealing with coworkers and the public? How do we reinforce positive behaviors and maintain positive relationships at work?
National Wellness Month encourages individuals to:
- Prioritize self-care physically, mentally, and emotionally. Stretching regularly has been shown to benefit physical and mental health.
- Engage in healthy habits. Improve eating habits with healthy food choices.
- Reduce stress. Reach out to others and contact your employer’s EAP representative.
- Improve sleep quality. Try to go to bed at the same time each night and get at least 8 hours of sleep.
- Seek medical checkups. Don’t forget about your annual physical and blood tests.
- Connect with others. Reach out to family, friends, and coworkers, and accomplish something outside of work.
- Foster a positive mindset. Participate in activities you love.
This month is a great opportunity to make small changes that can have a significant impact on your overall health and well-being. Prioritize your wellness in a way that feels best to you. Whether through journaling, meditation, exercising, or improving your diet, self-care is beneficial to everyone. August serves as a reminder that our wellness starts with us.