Thanks to the support of a generous donor, Mercy Home staff have had the opportunity to partake in a series of classes to improve our overall wellness. We’ve been delighted to offer workout classes once a week with Fit for Dance, a local Brooklyn business. The classes ranged from dance/cardio classes to yoga. Staff that joined have found that the classes lifted their mood, made them laugh, and overall allowed everyone a chance to get to know one another on a more personal level. It’s been refreshing and important after spending so much time apart due to COVID-19.
We all know that stress can pose serious health risks and to help staff manage their stress levels, we’ve offered another wonderful opportunity. Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Classes (MBSR). Led by Lucia McBee (LCSW, MPH, CYI), once a week, for six weeks, participants are being taught the best ways to be mindful. Lucia often quotes Lily Tomlin’s words of wisdom, “for fast acting relief, try slowing down”- while she guides everyone through an eye opening and relaxing experience. The act of practicing mindfulness according to the “founding father” of mindfulness, John Kabat-Zinn is “mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way, on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgmentally". Through guided practice, Mercy Home staff are learning healthier ways to handle stress and relax.
The past month has proven what most of us already know, but don’t often have the opportunity to practice. Taking time to care for yourself is imperative. It allows you to live a happier, healthier, more peaceful life.
Comentários