Health & Wellness

Summer (June 21) is almost here, and now is the perfect chance to prepare for spending additional time in the sun. The longer days and warmer weather open up the availability of many outdoor activities. Whether you are biking in the mountains, taking a trip to the beach, or staying cool with a healthy picnic in the shade, here are some resources to keep you safe and comfortable in the sun: 

• Common sense rules for summer fun
• Expert safety vacation tips
• Healthy dishes for your summer picnic
• Protect your peepers from the sun
• How to select safer sunglasses
• 6 ways to head off summer migraines
• Beat the heat this summer

Learn more: https://prowellness.childrens.pennstatehealth.org/tips-to-beat-the-heat-this-summer/

Reference: Penn State PRO Wellness <PROwellness@pennstatehealth.psu.edu>

 

 

There has been periodic times of isolation and uncertainty, and it is normal to feel anxious and stressed. Know that you are not alone! While helping others is important, it is also crucial to take care of yourself. For Mental Health Awareness Month, take some time to discover strategies that can help you improve and support your mental well-being yearlong.

 

• Mental health awareness: Let's talk
• The magic of meditation
• Be here now, present and aware
• Exercise can help with anxiety / depression
• Stay focused by taking a mindfulness break

 

Learn more: https://prowellness.childrens.pennstatehealth.org/mental-health-awareness-lets-talk/

Reference: Penn State PRO Wellness <PROwellness@pennstatehealth.psu.edu>

Like many people you may be experiencing extra stress during this time. In recognition of April as Stress Awareness Month, consider adopting these healthful habits to reduce your stress! If you do try some of these stress reducing tips, don’t forget to reach out to your family and friends, one of the best forms of stress reduction is a listening ear!

 

• Mental and physical health are equally important
• 9 tips for relieving work stress
• Pet your stress away
• Provide validation to support stressed family and friends

Learn more: https://prowellness.childrens.pennstatehealth.org/using-mindfulness-to-relieve-work-stress/

Reference: Penn State PRO Wellness <PROwellness@pennstatehealth.psu.edu>

Too much time plugged in can be detrimental to one's health. Once a week, take a day to unplug with your family and recharge with Screen-Free Saturdays! Going outside can positively impact mental health and helps to strengthen immune systems. Take a day of virtual learning outdoors! Here are some resources for staying safe outdoors and activities suitable for any space.

• Screen-Free Saturdays
• The pitfalls of too much screen time
• What is the right age to give your child a smartphone?
• More play, less sitting helps children grown healthy
• Grandparents are softies on screen time
• Safe indoor and outdoor activities for families
• A guide to safe outdoor activities during the coronavirus pandemic
• Kids with social, emotional and physical disabilities go outside!
• 10 outdoor spring activities to do with kids with developmental disabilities
• Social media, screen time linked to depression in teens, study says

Learn more: https://prowellness.childrens.pennstatehealth.org/safe-indoor-and-outdoor-activities-for-families-in-the-time-of-coronavirus/

Reference: Penn State PRO Wellness <PROwellness@pennstatehealth.psu.edu>

It is time to break out the board games and get creative! This extra time at home may be challenging as we adjust to the new norm, but it presents a unique opportunity for exploration. Make the most of your time at home and check out these services that are being offered for free!

 

• Staying active, while staying home
• Make virtual at-home learning active
• Take care of yourself with these workplace wellness resources
• 250+ ways to keep your family sane

Learn more: https://prowellness.childrens.pennstatehealth.org/staying-healthy-and-active-with-virtual-and-at-home-learning/

Reference: Penn State PRO Wellness <PROwellness@pennstatehealth.psu.edu>