Community

Healthy workplace the goal of Wellness Committee

Canada's Healthy Workplace Month is scheduled from Oct. 5 to Nov. 1. The 2009 theme is: Healthy Mind, Healthy Body, Healthy Work. Feeling Great About Life!

As individuals and employees, we face a never-ending cycle of stress, which is seen as commonplace in our society. The Wellness Committee at the University of Lethbridge is using this opportunity to increase employees' awareness of the importance of workplace health to personal and organizational performance.

The Life Balance Fair, Oct. 21, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the track of the 1st Choice Savings Centre for Sport and Wellness, has been created by the Wellness Committee to help employees find that balance in their personal and professional lives. It is not an either/or proposition, rather, a how much proposition.

The event has a large number of exhibitors – to celebrate all aspects of the theme – mind, body and work. Information on how to keep a healthy mind for you or your family; representatives from the Alzheimer's Society; what to do in case of emergency; and how to enhance your financial situation, are just a few of the topics exhibitors will address.

As well, representatives for treatment and therapy providers, including physiotherapy, chiropractor, massage, acupuncture, sleep and health information will all be available.

The Lethbridge and District Horticultural Society, the Campus Community Garden and Lethbridge Recreation and Leisure Services will also be present as we recognize these activities provide some balance to individuals' lives.

Creating and maintaining a healthy workplace will feature exhibits from U of L Risk and Safety Services, and benefits departments, the kinesiology department, WCB, and St. John's Ambulance.

There will also be ongoing demos of dancing, yoga and other fitness activities throughout the afternoon. And if you've never had the opportunity to try out the gym, there are free tours of the fitness centre.

Everything is designed to be interactive and there will be draw prizes for those who complete a Life Balance Fair passport. Prizes include a Wii Fit Sports Resort game. Open to all staff and faculty, a light lunch will also be available during the fair.

If you have questions contact Suzanne McIntosh, coordinator, wellness programs, at 403-332-5217.

October is Breast Health Awareness Month – remember to see Suzanne to get your card for the 'Health Challenge – Put Yourself First' contest. Every woman who has a mammogram (or pap test) before Oct. 26, 2009, will be entered in a draw for a $100 gift certificate to the Keg.