BarTalk October 2003
Volume 15, Number 5

YWCA of Vancouver

Healthy workplaces begin with healthy individuals. Healthy Workplace Week is October 20-26, 2003. This wellness wisdom is brought to you by the YWCA Health and Wellness Centre.

Wellness means much more than regular physical activity – it is about choosing a balanced lifestyle. Although physical activity is known to have a positive impact on the body, mind, and spirit, relationships, self-esteem, nutrition, and stress also contribute to overall well-being.

But in a fast-paced society, who has the time to eat well, exercise regularly and enjoy personal time? However, as these are key ingredients for overall well-being, fitting them into life is essential. Learning to accept those things beyond personal control and changing the things you can is a step in the right direction.

Just as Rome wasn’t built in a day, lifestyles don’t change overnight. Baby step lifestyle changes are more likely to become permanent changes. For example, begin by starting every day with a nutritious breakfast, and then develop a well-balanced meal plan that incorporates a variety of foods from all food groups. To step up activity levels, instead of visiting the usual coffee shop, choose one a few blocks away. Try taking the stairs, instead of the elevator. A sound diet and a little action in life boost energy levels and aid in managing life’s stresses.

Achieving a healthy balance between work and play and maintaining a state of wellness are ongoing processes with multiple benefits. People with healthy balances will notice the benefits, as will people around them. The best gift is the gift of health. In celebration of Healthy Workplace Week, consider giving a gift to yourself today.

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This article was published in the October 2003 issue of BarTalk and is subject to the copyright by the British Columbia Branch of the Canadian Bar Association, 2005, all rights reserved.