Thursdays in The Woodlands are Wellness Walk days thanks to a group of Ambulatory Well-Being Heroes. Needing a mental break during the workday, these team members get outside and get moving. “While we get in our steps and enjoy the fresh air, we have the opportunity to meet team members from different areas and disciplines,” explained Yvonne Barham, Ambulatory Clinics Manager. “It is a regularly scheduled event on my calendar, and I look forward to it every Thursday.” Even therapy dog Cohen joins in on the fun sometimes!
These kinds of simple habits are more powerful than you’d expect. In addition to boosting your mood and strengthening your immune system, physical activities like walking and stretching can help reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases. Walking with friends or co-workers also helps to facilitate connection and can lead to lesser rates of depression and anxiety.
To help you prioritize your physical well-being and create long-lasting habits, onsite fitness classes are back at all campuses. Employees can once again take toning and yoga classes right here in the hospital.
“The afternoon fitness classes are a great fit for me because of the convenience,” said Mariah Yannerella, Financial & Special Projects Coordinator. “Before walking back to my car or catching the shuttle, I can pop into Feigin and work away the stress of the day!”
Family Services Specialist Karen Schwieterman also loves how the classes have given her the opportunity “to be more active and aware of how important it is to be living a healthy lifestyle.”
Want help starting a walking group of your own? Reach out to Workforce Well-being at wellbeing@texaschildrens.org for pointers on how to get started and nearby walking trails.
Health is wealth and Texas Children’s is here to invest in your physical well-being. Take a class or take a walk but take charge and start today.