Physical Wellness Month
Physical Wellness Month is observed in April, focusing on nurturing our bodies and embracing a healthier lifestyle. Physical wellness is an integral part of overall wellbeing, encompassing everything from exercise to nutrition and rest.
Tips for enhancing physical wellness
Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week, along with muscle strengthening activities on two or more days a week (1).
Eat a balanced diet. Focus on a full and balanced diet with whole grains, fruits, vegetables and healthy proteins. Limit processed, excessive sodium and sugary foods (2).
Manage stress. Limit stress by practicing stress reduction techniques such as meditation, counseling, journaling, yoga and connecting with others (3).
Prioritize sleep. Getting quality sleep can help you stay healthy and alert. Most adults should get between seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Chronic lack of sleep has been linked to irritability, anxiety and depression (4).
Stay hydrated. Getting enough water throughout the day is vital for your health and helps bodily functions such as lubricating joints and regulating body temperature and prevents dehydration (5).
Via Benefits is your partner in your journey every step of the way. From the day your new hire walks in as an employee until the day she walks out the door as a retiree, Via Benefits is a partner every step of the way. Our in-depth research informs the design and delivery of your benefits program to provide your employees with support and guidance that enhances their physical and financial wellbeing now to ensure security for their future.
Sources:
“How much physical activity do adults need?”, CDC, 2. Jun. 2022, https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm
“Healthy Eating Plate”, Harvard T.H. Chan, Jan. 2023, https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-eating-plate/
“Stress relievers: Tips to tame stress”, Mayo Clinic, 3. Aug. 2023, https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/stress-relievers/art-20047257
Summer, Jay. "8 Health Benefits of Sleep", Sleep Foundation, 23 Jun. 2023, https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/benefits-of-sleep.
"Water and Healthier Drinks", CDC, 6 Jun. 2022, https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/water-and-healthier-drinks.html.