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CAMPUS COMMONS
DISCOVER YOUR PERSONAL SERENITY
IT’S NATIONAL RELAXATION DAY!
What does an average day look like for you? Many of us start our days bright and early by commuting to work, where we’ll spend the next 8–10 hours of our day. From there, we may work out, pick the kids up from school, or participate in a hobby. We then go home, have dinner, and unwind for a bit before doing it all again, and it’s easy to feel like we’re in a constant state of motion. In August, we get a chance to reset when we recognize National Relaxation Day on the 15th. I’m typically a go-go-go type of guy. There’s always something to do, whether it’s for myself, my kids, the business, or my wife. It’s often difficult to find days to disconnect and relax while doing something low-energy, but I try to find time every month. That downtime is super important every month because our bodies and minds need a break where they don’t have to exert so much energy. Every once in a while, we’re gifted with an extra day off from work or a long weekend thanks to a government holiday. These are some of the best opportunities to unwind. I took full advantage of Memorial Day weekend back in May and turned that into the ideal three-day weekend. I was able to sit outside under the patio cover with my wife and kids, enjoying the light breeze and cooler temperatures well into the evening. We barbecued a little, listened to some music, and just enjoyed our time together as a family. It was low-key for a Monday, but I couldn’t have asked for a better relaxation experience. I look at these relaxation days as a time to recharge. I’ll even try to take an extra day off when I go on vacation to unwind at home after the trip. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a home-cooked meal and sleeping in your own bed after being gone for a few days. I can use that day to
sit to do whatever I want without worrying about work or being on the go with the kids.
In recent years, my wife and I have put a lot of effort into our backyard, so it’s easier for us to relax in it. We’re even working on setting up some electrical stuff out there so we can add speakers and maybe a TV to our setup. There’s a wonderful breeze that comes through the yard in the evening, so we’ll sit on the comfortable furniture and enjoy the peace until 10 or 11 at night. We keep the pool lights, pool fountain, and fence lights on but turn everything else off. I understand why my wife refers to this area as her “paradise escape.” While my backyard has become my go-to relaxation place, nothing will compare to the calming power of Hawaii. I could spend all day sitting on the beach looking at the ocean. It’s such a relaxing environment, but the kids always want to be doing things every second we’re there. I told my wife that the next time we go, we’ll send the kids home a couple of days early so we can relax on the beach to our heart’s content! Some people view doing nothing and relaxing as a waste of time, but I’m able to appreciate the lack of responsibilities and not having to be productive because I’m constantly moving most days. Everyone unwinds in their own way, so this month, take some time to figure out what relaxes you and try to incorporate it into your weekly routine. Your body and mind will thank you!
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STATUS: OFFLINE
Some Celebrities Are Ditching Social Media — Should You?
In today’s digital age, the internet has become the primary place where we keep up with news, friends, relatives, and even celebrities. With millions of loyal fans following celebrity social media pages, their influence occupies much of our mental real estate. In many ways, their everyday online decisions have a ripple effect, creating trends and viral crazes that we can’t help but join. In recent months, many celebrities have started a new trend where social media isn’t part of the equation. Stars like Billie Eilish, Selena Gomez, Chrissy Teigen, and Lana Del Rey have all declared they
You may wonder if a social media hiatus is right for you. To officially answer that, experts like Dr. Modir have created a list of key signs to consider when deciding whether or not you need to unplug. NEGATIVE BEHAVIORS DEVELOP DURING OR AFTER USING SOCIAL MEDIA. One of the first hints it may be time for a break is if your social media scrolling leads to negative behaviors like comparing yourself to others, putting yourself down, or feeling especially anxious, depressed, or lonely. YOU CAN’T STOP CHECKING YOUR PHONE. If every notification (or lack thereof) causes you to pick up your phone and check your social media apps, especially at work or in the middle of a social engagement, it may be time for a break.
were participating in a “social media hiatus,” in which they would refrain from using social media for the sake of their mental health. And unlike many other celebrity trends, the benefits of a social media hiatus are supported by science. Dr. Shahla Modir, the chief medical officer at All Points North Lodge, an addiction treatment center,
YOUR REAL-LIFE RELATIONSHIPS ARE SUFFERING. The most telling sign you need a break is if you begin to avoid real-life interactions with friends and family in favor of using social media.
says, “Unplugging [from social media] allows people to be more mindful and present in their actual lives.” She also says that breaks can help improve sleep, focus, and productivity.
So, if you display any of these symptoms, this celebrity trend may be one worth joining!
The Aquatic Advantage HOW SWIMMING BOOSTS YOUR HEALTH Your heart and lungs will grow stronger, and your overall cardiovascular health will improve. Additionally, swimming is a great way to burn calories and lose weight. EXERCISING IN THE WATER CAN REDUCE PAIN. When you’re recovering from an injury or fighting off the pain and discomfort of arthritis, it can be difficult to participate in your regular exercises. You may find it easier to exercise in the water since it’s low- impact and the buoyancy helps relieve stress on your joints as well as overall pain. Walking in water, participating in a water aerobics class, and swimming laps are great ways to reduce pain and get some extra movement into your routine. YOUR MENTAL HEALTH WILL GET A BOOST. Many experts have concluded that exercise and physical activity help improve our moods while making it easier to manage stress. Swimming is no different! When you swim, your brain releases endorphins, serotonin, and dopamine, which will help you feel happier. Swimming can also wear you out physically, allowing you to get a better night’s rest.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, swimming is the fourth-most popular activity in the United States. For those of us who swim regularly, there are few things better than taking a dip in a pool on a hot summer day. Whether you’re trying to get a few laps in or just unwinding in the water, swimming is a great way to refresh after a long day while also improving your mental and physical health.
Here are a few benefits you’ll experience after you incorporate swimming into your daily or weekly routine.
SWIMMING MAKES YOU STRONGER. Swimming laps in a pool can be hard work, and it can take time to build up the stamina and muscles to do it well. As you start swimming, you’ll quickly notice more strength, endurance, and muscle tone. But it’s not just your outsides that get stronger; your internal organs benefit too!
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SERVING UP THE FACTS
WHAT IS TENNIS ELBOW?
If you’re a golfer or tennis player, you know how important it is to keep your arms in the best shape possible. You likely exercise them often and pay careful attention to how they feel on a daily basis. What do you do if you start to feel pain in and around your elbow? This painful phenomenon is often referred to as tennis elbow and is the bane of many tennis players and golfers.
create a game plan that works for your needs and teach you several wrist and arm exercises that will help reduce the pain while restoring motion. Even after the pain subsides and you feel back to normal, it’s in your best interest to continue with your wellness plan to keep the pain at bay. While tennis elbow sounds like something that only affects athletes, anyone who performs repetitive motions throughout each day can experience it. Painters, dentists, musicians, and chefs
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons surrounding the elbow develop too much stress. This can happen after too much repetitive motion, especially if you continue to play through fatigue and pain. You may notice that your grip has weakened, and simple movements will become more difficult and painful. You may even feel a constant pain that starts in the elbow and extends into the forearm and wrist. If you experience these symptoms and they persist for several days, you should see a doctor to determine if you have tennis elbow.
can all get tennis elbow just by performing their regular job duties. You may have to adjust your technique to prevent tennis elbow pain from returning, especially if you got it from playing tennis. Don’t let it get so bad that you can no longer work or participate in your favorite hobbies. Get an expert’s opinion so you can get the relief you need. Give us a call today to see how we can help you!
Physical therapy is your best path forward if a doctor diagnoses you with tennis elbow. We’ll
TAKE A BREAK
Sweet Potato Jalapeño Poppers
Inspired by ForksOverKnives.com
Healthy, zingy, and savory, these vegan sweet potato jalapeño poppers are a flavorful appetizer.
INGREDIENTS • 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into large pieces • 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric • Salt and pepper, to taste • 7 fresh jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeded
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast • 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 400 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large saucepan, place sweet potato chunks in a steamer basket. Add water just below steamer basket and boil. Steam for around 10 minutes. Remove sweet potatoes, and let cool in a bowl before mashing. 3. In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, yeast, vinegar, and turmeric. Boil, then cook for 1 minute or until thickened. 4. In a blender, combine milk mixture and mashed sweet potatoes until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. 5. Spoon sweet potato mixture into jalapeño halves. Place on baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes or until lightly browned.
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INSIDE
THIS ISSUE
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Find Time to Unwind This Month
Is Social Media Taking a Toll on You?
Swim Your Way to Better Health
Ace Your Recovery From Tennis Elbow
Sweet Potato Jalapeño Poppers
Walking Just Got Easier!
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Reduces Joint Pain: Because Nordic walking poles help the body balance, the user’s joints (especially the back and knees, which the body typically tends to overcorrect) can find relief.
You’ve heard from your doctors, family, and friends alike how important movement is for individuals as they age. Regular walking is the best way for many older adults to get that daily movement in. But what if going for a walk is easier said than done? That’s why many older adults who suffer from balance and/or mobility issues are partaking in something called Nordic walking or pole walking. WHAT IS NORDIC WALKING? Nordic walking is when an individual uses two chest-height poles, much like ski poles, while pushing each one into the ground with every step. The benefit of the poles is that they help the user balance and stand straight, while the act of pushing the poles into the ground actually increases upper body strength and flexibility. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NORDIC WALKING? Aside from helping with balance, strength, and mobility, Nordic walking touts a few other health benefits users can enjoy. Low Impact: Since Nordic walking uses poles to support the body through each step, there is much less impact on the joints and ligaments.
• Improved Cardiovascular Health: Remember, almost any movement is good for you, and Nordic walking is no different. By getting those steps in, you’ll lower your cholesterol and enjoy improved cardiovascular fitness. • Improved Mental Health: Research shows that physical activity boosts mood while actively lowering the risk of depression. And since users of Nordic walking typically walk outdoors, they also enjoy the mental benefits of being around nature. WHERE CAN YOU FIND NORDIC WALKING POLES? The most accessible place to find Nordic walking poles is online. Retailers like Amazon and Bass Pro Shops sell the poles, but a great resource is YorkNordic.com America’s No. 1 Nordic walking pole retailer. If you prefer to shop in person, Target, Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and athletic stores typically carry poles too.
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If you’d like more information on Nordic walking, you can always search the term on Google or YouTube for tips and tricks on starting the habit!
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