SECTORSPOTLIGHT
Thriving in the canopy
BY JEN LLEWELLYN AS ARBORISTS and green industry professionals, we face unique physical and mental challenges. In a profession deeply connected to nature, how is it that we still feel so stressed and overwhelmed? Research shows that spending time amongst trees improves health and wellness, and we know these benefits are amplified when combined with simple, self-resourcing practices. Over the course of my career, I have found powerful, scientifically proven practices to restore balance and help me thrive. Resiliency is so important in the arborist profession; it not only improves our adaptability but also empowers us to lead and inspire positive change in our communities and contribute to a healthier future for our beloved trees. Foundations of health A healthy mindset starts with the feeling of resourcefulness in the body. Let’s start with the most important two questions that a health care provider should ask: 1: What are you eating? 2: How much sleep are you getting? These two habits form the foundation of our physical and mental health, yet they are often overlooked. It's common knowledge that we get more nutrition and energy
from eating fresh, living foods, but what many of us don’t realize is that we may not be getting enough protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle, which is crucial for our active careers, especially as we age. Protein is a key component of many hormones and enzymes that regulate processes like digestion, immune function and mood. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) in Canada and the U.S. is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day. But did you know that 0.8 grams is considered to be the minimum to prevent deficiency in sedentary adults? The International Society of Sports Nutrition recommends protein intakes of 1.4 to 2.0 g/kg/day for most exercising individuals. That’s a big difference. Sleep is a precious commodity for us, especially in the spring and summer — and we all know that sleep quality is vital. One barrier to good sleep could be magnesium deficiency. Magnesium regulates muscle contraction and expansion, muscle repair and prevents cramps and muscle spasms, like the ones we get at night. Magnesium also helps calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety. I have found it to be a game changer when I take it before bed. The RDA for magnesium is 300-400 mg. Studies show that 40-50 per cent of North Americans aren’t getting enough magnesium. Are you?
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