Here’s our most recent Benefit & Well-being Spotlight. We’re focusing on stress awareness month – reminding you to join May’s Stepping Strong step challenge by the end of April, sharing InvestEAP’s contact information, and providing tips and tools for stress management.
Benefit Spotlight: Join the Stepping Strong Challenge and Remember InvestEAP
- Join us!Sign up by April 30th to participate in the Stepping Strong Step Challenge:
- When we reach the 700 million step goal, then Cigna and other sponsors will donate more than $130,000 to The Gillian Reny Stepping Strong Center for Trauma Innovation at Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
- Established by Boston Marathon bombing survivors, the Stepping Strong Center fuels trauma research and care to benefit civilians and military personnel worldwide who have suffered from the devastation of traumatic injuries.
- There is no fee to join, your loved ones are welcome to participate, and there are prizes given out along the way.
- Join us with the Move Spring App – our Organization Code is STEPUP25.
- Remember: InvestEAP is here to help!
- If you or anyone living in your household is navigating a stressful, challenging, or unknown situation, InvestEAP has free resources and is available 24/7/365 to help. Reach out and they’ll connect you with resources applicable to the specific situation.
- Call: 866-660-9533
- Visit: investeap.org (password is midd)
Well-Being Spotlight: Stress Awareness by Rebecca Schubert
We all experience stress—it’s a normal part of life. But when stress becomes chronic, it can take a toll on our physical and mental well-being, leading to fatigue, headaches, trouble sleeping, and even long-term health issues. That’s why April, Stress Awareness Month, is a great time to pause and check in with ourselves.
One of the most effective (and underrated) ways to manage stress is through physical activity. Whether it’s a brisk walk during lunch, a bike ride after work with a friend or the family, or a quick stretch between meetings, moving your body helps release feel-good chemicals and reduces levels of stress hormones.
Why physical activity works:
- Boosts your mood: Even 10 minutes of movement can lift your spirits.
- Improves sleep: Being active during the day can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly.
- Releases tension: Exercise helps release the physical symptoms of stress—tight shoulders, clenched jaw, or a racing heart.
- Clears your mind: Getting your body moving can help you step away from your stressors and return with a fresh perspective.
You don’t need to hit the gym or run a marathon. Take a walk, dance in your kitchen, stretch while watching TV, or try a quick home workout. The key is consistency and choosing something you enjoy.
This month, take a moment to prioritize your well-being with some movement. A little each day can go a long way in reducing stress and improving overall health.
Here are some resources to help you be active:
- For our Cigna members, sign up for a free Active & Fit Direct account and access thousands of hours of virtual fitness classes. Click on the Log In button on the top right corner, then click “Not registered,” and follow the instructions to create an account. Then you can enroll in the free on demand videos.
- Join the annual Step Up for Stepping Strong Step Challenge. Registration is open though the end of April and the challenge runs throughout the month of May. This is a great way to be active and support a good cause.
- InvestEAP offers monthly, 30-minute movement workshops. Create your InvestEAP account, sign up for the newsletter and stay in the know about these opportunities.
Let’s keep moving—your mind and body will thank you.
Event Spotlight
| Introduction to Medicare with Age Well of Vermont Thursday, May 1st 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. You & your loved ones navigating Medicare are welcome to join this session. Email us for the zoom details. | No-Nonsence Movement Break with InvestEAP Friday, May 9th 8:30-9:00 a.m. A quick yoga flow session for all levels. | Cook Smarter, Not Harder: Busy Person’s Guide to Meal Prep with InvestEAP Thursday, May 22nd 12:30-1:00 p.m. Practical, low-stress strategies for meal planning and batch cooking. |
The Benefits Team @ GMHEC
benefits@gmhec.org | 802-443-5485 | gmhec.org/benefits-wellbeing-spotlight/
