Wellness Newsletter - April 2024

APRIL 2024 EMPLOYEE NEWSLETTER Live Well. Work Well. The Health Benefits of Walking Walking is often overlooked as a form of exercise; Mental Health Benefits of Walking however, it offers several health benefits for the body Beyond its physical benefits, walking also holds and mind. This simple yet powerful activity is immense potential for nurturing one’s mental well- accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels, being and emotional balance. Consider these requiring no special equipment, memberships or benefits: training. By boosting physical fitness and enhancing • Reduced stress and anxiety mental well-being, incorporating regular walks into your routine can improve overall health. • Improved mood and emotional well-being The U.S. Dept. of Health & Human Services • Enhanced cognitive function and reduced risk of recommends moderate-intensity aerobic cognitive decline and dementia exercise – for 150 to 300 minutes a week. • Better sleep patterns and quality Get Walking Today Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through nature or a brisk walk around the block, incorporating regular walks into your routine can improve both body and Physical Health Benefits of Walking mind. Walking for 30 minutes at least five days a Walking is a natural, low-impact form of exercise that week is a great way to improve or maintain your can yield notable improvements in physical fitness. overall health and well-being. Simply putting one foot in front of the other can While brisk walking is safe for most people, it’s still unlock a myriad of benefits for your body, including: important to talk to your doctor before you start an • Increased cardiovascular health (e.g., lower blood exercise program. pressure and cholesterol levels) • Improved respiratory health • Strengthened muscles and joints • Boosted immune function • Weight management support • Reduced risk of developing conditions such as heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and some cancers

APRIL 2024 LIVE WELL. WORK WELL. NEWSLETTER: Nip Seasonal Allergies in the Bud 2024’s Best Diet: The The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Mediterranean reports that one-quarter (25.7%) of adults suffer from seasonal allergies. Springtime allergies are an annual U.S. News & World Report named the nuisance for many people as plants bloom and Mediterranean diet the world’s best neighbors cut their lawns more frequently. Also, mold overall diet for the seventh consecutive growth occurs indoors and outdoors, making it year, ranking first in 7 of the 11 diet almost impossible to escape allergy triggers. categories. The winning meal plan Consider these strategies to alleviate your spring emulates how people in the allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, stuffy or runny Mediterranean region have traditionally nose, and watery eyes: eaten, focusing on consuming whole • Local allergens – Keep track of local allergen (e.g., grains and heart-healthy fats. This diet pollen and mold) counts to help you know when may help support brain function, to avoid spending excessive time outside. promote heart health and regulate blood • Shower – Take a shower after spending time sugar levels. Research also suggests that outdoors, as pollen can stick to your hair, skin and this well-balanced eating pattern can clothing. help prevent some chronic diseases and • Wash bedding – Wash your bedding weekly in increase longevity. hot water to help keep pollen under control. A nonrestrictive, healthy meal plan such • Clean floors – Clean your floors often with a as the Mediterranean diet may be easier vacuum that has a HEPA filter. to follow and stay committed to. If you have any questions about your diet, talk • Change filters – Change your air conditioner and to your doctor. heating HEPA filters often. For many people, avoiding allergens and using over- the-counter medications is enough to ease their allergy symptoms. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms remain bothersome.