October is one special month to observe. I do not mean observe pumpkins on front porches or the autumn leaves turning. I mean observe, respect, notice Health Observances on the calendar.
This JFAHELP post is written by Coach J, new to the team here, and just trying to keep up with Coach T's short but rapidly moving legs! I am a former collegiate athletic trainer and current corporate wellness coach, so my focus has switched from college jocks to corporate employees, but my general message has always been: be mindful with yourself, enjoy the quality of life good health yields, and move your body! It's fun. It doesn't matter if enjoying your very useful body means playing linebacker for Notre Dame or walking during your lunch hour to build strength, endurance or even peace of mind...it's all about making the most of the physical tools that have to last you a lifetime.
So back to health observances! October is full of awareness and action for health and wellness. First, the most highly-publicised: Breast Cancer Awareness (nbcam.org), which touches so many. But it is important to not let the pink ribbons eclipse other important causes:
This week is Drive Safely Work Week for instances (trafficsafety.org), and National Down Syndrome Awareness Month (ndss.org) and World Mental Health Day is October 10 (did they seriously make this on a MONDAY? My mental health is not good then! Visit the site: wfmh.org ) It is also Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness month, Bone and Joint Decade National Action Week Oct 12-20, and National Drug Facts Week the last week of the month. The point is, be aware of the health issues affecting the United States and beyond. Maybe you will learn something to save your life, or maybe you will find a good place to find personal satisfaction by volunteering.
Cheers from Coach J. Be aware of your own body this month, and be aware of national health!
The JFA Worksite Wellness Team shares stories, tips and information about living well, or doing the best they can, while balancing life and working as worksite wellness professionals.
