Motion Minute: December 2024

12.01.24 10:01 PM - By Motion Connected

THE WELLNESS UPDATE
A More Mindful Holiday Season

The holidays are a time to celebrate and spend time with family. Unfortunately, they can also be hectic. Sound familiar? The truth is that many people feel stressed over the holidays, but there is something you can try that’s free, requires little time, and can help diffuse stress: mindfulness. 

Mindfulness is the skill of bringing your attention to the present and recognizing how you feel without judgement. The more you practice, the more you start to feel the benefits. Here’s a few simple ways to start:

1. Embrace Imperfection: when holiday plans don’t go exactly as you’d hoped, be reassured that mistakes are normal, and that it’s okay for things to not be “perfect.” You are human. 

2. Remember What Really Matters: sometimes setbacks are not as big as we make them out to be in our minds. When you’re stuck in traffic or forget to pick something up from the store, remind yourself that this is something small. Take stock of the things you have accomplished and all you do have to be thankful for.

3. Treat Yourself: be intentional about planning time to relax. Find a comfy chair to read a book, have some hot cocoa, or take a long bath. Notice how you feel and try not to judge your emotions. These simple moments to yourself can help you find a sense of calm during an otherwise busy time.

SCORECARD TIP OF THE MONTH

Upcoming Deadlines

The scorecard is ending this month for some programs. Go to the Scorecard page in your Motion Connected account to view program dates, points earned, and progress toward incentive levels.

Please note: scorecard programs vary between organizations. Yours may not be ending this December.

OBSERVANCES

Fight the Flu

It’s the season for family, but also for flu. National Influenza Vaccination Week is your reminder that there’s still time to get a flu vaccine and fight the flu. Protect yourself and the ones you love from flu illness. Learn more about the flu vaccine at the CDC's site linked below.

Key Facts about the Seasonal Flu >>

NUTRITION CORNER

Why You Need Omega 3s

You’ve probably heard of Omega-3s, but what are they exactly? Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that play a vital role in many bodily systems including your heart, lungs, brain, and immune system.

Since your body can’t produce this nutrient on its own, it’s important to get it through your diet—or supplements, if recommended by your doctor. Some excellent sources include*:
• Wild Salmon
• Mackerel
• Herring 
• Lake Trout
• Albacore Tuna

Omega-3s can also be found in plant-based sources like flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, but don’t raise your Omega-3 levels as effectively as seafood sources. 

*If you are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to become pregnant, avoid eating types of fish that contain high levels of mercury. 

Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help.  Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket.

Monthly Question: What's one way you can practice more mindfulness when life gets busy? 

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

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