National Wellness Month Resource Roundup
August is National Wellness Month, and we shared a series of wellness tips, tricks, and resources in our weekly Uplift Local newsletter. In today’s fast-paced world, it can be challenging to take a step back and focus on our own well-being. From healthy eating to social connection, we explore some of the top clicked tips and ways to positively impact physical and mental health. Here is to a healthier and happier community. Be well Palo Alto!
Eating & Exercising
Eating and exercising for wellness sounds simple enough. Weave in our busy schedules, and sometimes life just gets in the way! Find these easy and evidence-based ways to prioritize healthy eating. Smart tip — focus on one thing to get started — such as eating whole eggs or fresh fruits and veggies, adding fatty fish and other protein into your dinner rotation and using extra virgin olive oil.
Power of protein: Studies show that increasing protein intake may improve mental health symptoms, and most Americans aren’t getting enough protein in their breakfast. Looking to add more protein to your mornings? This easy frittata recipe is perfect to kick start the day and offers variations to load up on both protein and veggies! Not an egg fan? Try these high protein breakfast ideas.
Healthy eating and regular exercise go hand in hand with wellness and this Harvard University Public Health Department article shares 10 tips to making exercise a daily habit. Move your feet before you eat, exercise with a friend, and split out your exercise routine to fit in a half hour daily by planning three ten-minute sessions throughout the day. To bring it all together, try these nutrition tips from the Mayo Clinic to maximize your workout.
Sleeping & Swimming
Getting a good night’s sleep is important and is directly connected to our mental health. Quality sleep helps reduce stress, worry, anxiety, and depression. Exercising helps our bodies get better sleep and swimming is a great summer (and year-round) activity to help you nod off and stay asleep. For brain function, Dr. Mimi Winsberg sites that swimming may outperform other types of exercise because it can boost your mood, reduce anxiety, and improve brain function. Plus, simply being near water can support your overall health with potential benefits like improved relaxation. Visit Boronda Lake at Foothills Nature Preserve and Baylands Nature Preserve, or begin a regular swim routine at Rinconada Pool, your body and brain will thank you later.
Walking & Writing
Our National Wellness Month series also focused on walking and writing for wellness. A new study noted last week in the New York Times, finds that walking even 4,000 steps, or a 30–45-minute walk, has big health and wellness benefits. As the old saying goes, a little bit goes a long way. Find your walking shoes and head out of the office, circle your neighborhood, take a hike on a local trail, or walk to your closest park for your health. While thinking about your next walking break, pack a bag with your journal and favorite pen. Health studies show a connection between writing and wellness. Writing wins include reduced stress, increased creativity, and even boosted immunity. Need help finding your writing muse?
Music, Movement & Social Connection
Our series also focused on the importance of music, movement, and social connection to being well. Listening to music can reduce stress and support mental health and wellness. Get into the living room dance groove, which supports an active lifestyle. Check out local music at 3rd Thursdays on Cal Ave., Art & Music in the Afternoon, or Musicians in Residence: Nathan’s Fearless Five.
Find these events and more to support wellness, while connecting and having fun!
Supporting Community Health & Wellbeing
For our community health and wellbeing, here are resources to track the latest on COVID-19 cases: Data from the California Department of Public Health shows a rise in COVID-19 cases in August and wastewater samples from Palo Alto reached a high level at the end of August. Though we’re coming out of the other side of the pandemic, it’s still important to wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces, test often — free home kits are still available — and stay home when you’re not feeling well.
Find more Wellness Resources at www.CityofPaloAlto.org/BeWell
Climate Action & Community Safety
In case you missed our other August community updates sharing wellness tips, below are links to community updates focusing on Climate Action & Environmental Wellness, Wellness for Teens, and Back-to-School Safety & Wellness.
Check out these resources with those priorities in mind.
Right now, the City is permitting AND installing new heat pump water heaters for Palo Alto residents. We’ll even help you save thousands of dollars on new equipment that doesn’t burn expensive gas.
Call (650) 713–3411 or visit cityofpaloalto.org/switch for a free consultation. Learn about this unique opportunity and other tips on savings to beat the heat.
From academic assistance and skill development to mindfulness, social engagement and creative outlets, Palo Alto provides a nurturing environment for teens to explore their interests, expand their horizons, and unlock their full potential. In this community update, we highlight top teen resources and events, providing a guide for teens and their families to thrive!
Share the road safely, especially during school arrival and dismissal times. This community update offers important reminders for the whole community to be well, and stay safe in and around Palo Alto.
More Online Resources
Sign up for the City’s Uplift Local newsletter to gain weekly wellness resources here.
Learn more about local wellness here.
Visit Palo Alto Nature Preserves.
Learn about Palo Alto Recreation Services.
Explore upcoming events on the City calendar.
