How Your Environment Shapes Your Well-Being Hidden Health Risks in Your Neighborhood
Have you ever wondered if your neighborhood might be impacting your health? According to a recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, where you live can significantly influence your risk of developing heart disease and stroke. Let’s examine how your surroundings might play a more significant role in your well-being than you think! NATURE’S MEDICINE — GREEN SPACES Imagine waking up and taking a stroll through a lush park. Sounds nice, right? Well, it turns out that having green spaces nearby is more than just pleasant — it’s good for your health! Dr. Sarju Ganatra from Beth Israel Lahey Hospital in Massachusetts shared with AARP that exposure to green spaces is linked to lower stress levels, better moods, and improved overall well-being. Parks also promote social interaction and community bonding, which are great for your emotional health! THE DANGERS OF ‘FOOD DESERTS’ Now, let’s talk about food. If your neighborhood has limited access to fresh produce and healthy food options, you might be living in what’s known as
a food desert. Research shows that people in food deserts are at a higher risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Our environment influences our health, including the availability of nutritious food. So, having a farmers market or a store with fresh produce nearby can make a huge difference. STEPPIN’ UP AND OUT Well-constructed and maintained sidewalks encourage walking, which is essential for maintaining heart health and overall fitness. A safe and walkable neighborhood can significantly impact your daily exercise routine. If your sidewalks are in bad shape, staying active and getting your steps in is harder, so reach out to local leaders or groups to advocate for their repair. Next time you step outside, take a moment to consider your surroundings. Does your neighborhood have plenty of green spaces, easy access to fresh food, and good walkability? These factors might seem small, but they significantly affect your health. Your neighborhood is more than just where you live — it’s vital to your overall well-being.
Find Your Balance
Prioritize Work Without Burning Out
For you to give your best, you have to be at your best. If you are burnt out or not enjoying what you do, then it will be nearly impossible to provide the service your clients deserve. Whether you are a business owner, self-employed, or work for someone else, you should consider a few factors to make your work enjoyable, effective, and sustainable for the long haul. Here are two tips I apply in my business that have helped me and my associates avoid burnout while performing at the highest level possible. KEEP THINGS LIGHT As a business owner, it is important to foster a work environment conducive to hard work and your team’s enjoyment. As an example: When my associates have to work on a Saturday, we listen to music. If you call the office on a weekend, and we happen to be working, our call is going to have a soundtrack, because odds are that we are
jamming out. This seems like a small detail, but it goes a long way to lighten the mood and make work more carefree and enjoyable when appropriate. MAKE TIME FOR FAMILY Did you know only 62% of American workers use all their PTO time every year? Taking the time necessary to recuperate and recharge will help you be a more effective advocate for your clients when you return. I believe family should come before work, and if at all possible, I afford my team the ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance. If my family life demands it, I will adapt my work schedule to ensure I am there when they need me. Likewise, we start every Monday by asking if anyone on the team has any commitments or occasions when their family or loved ones need them that week. If they do, we will accommodate them.
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