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SAS K ATCH E WA N PA R KS A N D R ECR E AT I O N AS S O C I AT I O N

Recreation At WorkWorkplace Wellness

SPRA STAFF

MANAGEMENT

Chief Executive Officer Norm Campbell

Program Manager John Firnesz

Field Services Manager Randy Durovick

Communication, Information and Research Manager Luella Newman

RECREATION CONSULTANTS

Information and Research Services Chantel Doerksen

Communications Lori Ross Christian Bates-Hardy

Human Resources and Funding Lee Anne Balliett

Parks and Open Spaces Andrew Exelby

Physical Activity and Fitness Wendy McKellar

Aboriginal Support Tim Haywahe Leadership and Evaluation Karen Thompson

Recreation Facilities Kelly Skotnitsky

Funding and Youth Tanya Murphy

Assistant Consultant Kristen Bialobzyski

ADMINISTRATION

Business Administrator Bonnie Thiessen

Business Administrator Anita Ehman

Executive Assistant Lois McNaught

Administrative Technician Ryan Monks Administrative Assistant II Natalie McAmmond

Administrative Assistant I Kayla Schreiner Donna Matheson

Fitness/Administrative Assistant II Lynn Bradley

Regina Office: Phone: (306) 780-9231 or 1-800-563-2555

FIELD CONSULTANTS/ADMINISTRATION

Swift Current Jaclyn Davis/Christine Rousseaux Phone: (306) 778-1091

Rosetown/North Battleford Kerry Bailey/Janae Dawson Phone: (306) 882-6601

Prince Albert Rob Boulding/Shari Morash Phone: (306) 953-0052

Weyburn Morgan Grainger Phone: (306) 848-0272

Melville/Yorkton Darren Spelay Phone: (306) 728-3860

Humboldt Clint McConnell/ Lynne Morelli Phone: (306) 682-5265

La Ronge Kathleen Cornthwaite Phone: (306) 425-1910

March 2014 | VOLUME 5 | NUMBER 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS

President’s Report 01 Active Workplace Tips 02 Lottery Lingo 03Best Practices 03Benefits of Worksite Wellness 04How to Create a Wellness Committee 05SPRA Puts Recreation to Work 06 Green Spaces and Workplaces 07The Benefits of an Office Ergonomic Assessment 08 Swift Current - Where the ‘Healthy’ Life Makes Sense 09Say Goodbye to the “Desk Potato” and Hello to Workplace Wellness 10Grants and Funding and Events 12 Free First Aid App 13Commercial Ads 14

DIRECTION is published four times a year (December, March, June and September). The publication is provided to members of the Saskatchewan Parks and Recreation Association. Direct all communications to:

Editor, DIRECTION #100 - 1445 Park Street Regina, Saskatchewan S4N 4C5

You may also send letters or comments to Lori Ross, Communications Consultant, at 306.780.9370, by fax at 306.780.9257, or by email at lross@spra.sk.ca.

Articles within this magazine are the opinions of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the policies or opinions of SPRA. Articles in DIRECTION may be reprinted, provided that full credits are shown for the author and the magazine.

SPRA BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President Mike Powell

Director for Cities Jasmine Jackman

Director for Towns Vacant

Director for Villages Clive Craig

Director at Large Corrine Galarneau Director at Large Mimi Lodoen

Director at Large Dawna Nielson

Director at Large Coralie Bueckert

Director for the North Derek Sylvestre

in motion STAFF

Manager Cathie Kryzanowski

Manager - Community and Target Strategies Marnie Sinclair

Communications Consultant Kim Herperger Amanda Perry Administrative Assistant Stephanie Woitas Jill McDougall

Phone: (306) 780-9248 or 1-866-888-3648 Fax: (306) 780-9466

Supported by:

March 2014 01

PRESIDENT’S REPORTenough time balancing that work time with some recreation time. I am reminded that I am more productive when I make time for some noon hour fitness. A nice workout always makes us feel better - not only for the fitness activity but also for the social interaction with the regulars. It is always refreshing to enjoy a swim and not be mocked for my speedo! What happens in Zumba…stays in Zumba!

So join me and all those others and be sure to priori-tize your work day to include some “me time”. Find some time to be active and see the difference in your personal and workplace productivity. I bet it will start with a smile on your face and soon everyone will want to be a part of it. Remember…you can always start with something as simple as a room full of bouncy, squishy, throwy things!!

Mike Powell SPRA President

Sometimes, we lucky individuals who work within the recreation sector take workplace wellness for granted. We forget that a typical work environment does not include play…we forget that most people do not have access to Zumba classes…we forget that others may not place a priority on finding time to

participate in active recreation or fitness.

What we do not forget is that wellness has so many benefits, not only for the individual, but for those around them, including the entire workplace. Contemporary work-places recognize this and embrace corporate wellness programs for all employees. Investing time and resources in such programs has proven to produce a return on investment where everyone wins.

In this edition of DIRECTION, we will hear about the benefits of wellness programs and how to start the programs in your workplace. My suggestion is to leave this March edition of DIRECTION in the coffee room, maybe even open to your favourite page. Start a discussion, or better yet, start an activity and then watch as the simple change you introduced blossoms into something that is productive for the workplace.

I will share an example of one such simple idea from my past where a vacant office became a wellness opportunity. One day the manager arrived at the office with a number of toys - things like juggling balls, hoola hoops, brain teasers, bouncy things, squishy things, throwy things and all sorts of goofy distracting things. The idea was that during the work day anyone could take a break and find a distraction in that va-cant office. They would come out with a smile, rejuvenated for the work that still needed to be done. A simple idea that certainly contributed to the wellness and productivity of the workplace! I am sure I am not the only one who reflects upon that memory positively.

This edition is also timely for me personally. I think I have been guilty of spending a little too much time at work and not

In 2011, full-time employees in Saskatch-ewan spent an average of 11 days away from work due to illness, disability and/or personal or family responsibilities. (This is the highest in Canada. The National average is 9.3 days)Dabboussy, Maria and Uppal, Sharanjit. 2012. “Work absences in 2011”. Perspectives on Labour and Income. Summer 2012, vol. 24, no. 2. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 75-001-XIE.

Workplace physical activity programs can reduce sick leave by up to 32 per cent and increase productivity by up to 52 per cent.World Health Organization, Southern Australian Workplace Physical Activity Resource Kit.

DID YOU KNOW

02 March 2014

ACTIVE WORKPLACE TIPS ACTIVE EMPLOYEES ARE PRODUCTIVE EMPLOYEES

Here are some tips on how to reap the benefits of having an active, healthy,

and happy workplace.

It is well-known that physical activity is good for us in more ways than one. However, it can be a challenge to find time in our busy schedules to get the activity that our body needs. Staying active in the workplace can help to increase productivity, lower health-care costs and employee turnover, and promote and foster a positive environment.1

FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURS

Providing flexibility with work hours gives employees more time to attend fitness classes and be involved in different activities. This could be as simple as coming into work a half hour early and leaving a half hour early.

ACTIVE COMMUNICATION

Walk to a coworkers’ desk to communicate instead of using phone or email. Inter-office mail systems can be efficient when time is an issue, but when there is no rush, why not walk around the office and communicate in person? It is a simple way to get moving and improve your working relation-ships with those around you.2

WALK AND STRETCH

Go for a short walk and do some simple stretches every hour. Sitting at a desk all day can be very damaging to your body and mind. Taking a moment every hour or so to take a walk around the office or do some easy stretches gives your muscles a break and your mind a chance to refocus so you can be more productive.

TAKE THE STAIRS

One of the easiest ways to get some extra physical activity is taking the stairs and avoiding the elevator or escalator.

PLAN A WALKING MEETING

This is an innovative way to hold office meetings, with ben-efits that are hard to pass up. Not only are you burning calo-ries and getting energized, but walking and talking allows the mind to become more flexible and creative. It also breaks down hierarchical work distinctions and puts people at ease.3

FITNESS FACILITIES OR GROUP RATES AT NEARBY ONES

Forty percent of workers say that one of the best ways their employers can help them improve their health is to provide recreational or exercise facilities at or near the workplace.4

March 2014 03

BEST PRACTICESSaskatchewan’s Top Employers of 2013 have employee health and wellness on their agenda. Examples of some of the perks these organizations offer:

■ Telecommuting and compressed workweek options■ Discounted memberships to local fitness facilities■ Weekly 15 minute massages■ Paid time off to volunteer■ On-site amenities such as quiet rooms, fitness facility, cafeteria with healthy and special diet menus■ Continuing education funding ■ Extended health benefitsCanada’s Top 100 Employers. 2014. Saskatchewan’s Top Employers. Retrieved from: http://www.canadastop100.com/sk.

LOTTERY LINGO$25,000 WESTERN 649 Win in Regina!Adrian Yaworski won $25,000 on the WESTERN 649. The ticket was purchased at the Sherwood Co-op located at 460 Albert Street, Regina, SK.

$10,000 KENO Win in Clavet!Patrick Aube (In Trust) won $10,010 on the KENO. The ticket was purchased at Neen’s Nook, located at Main Street and Highway 16, Clavet, SK.

HEALTH AND FITNESS RESOURCES

Providing information like brochures, newsletters and sched-ules to employees allows them to stay educated on health and fitness, as well as, find new opportunities and ways to participate.

HOLD CONTESTS IN THE WORKPLACE THAT ENCOURAGE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Competition is often a motivating factor for people to not only participate, but put forth their best effort. This also encour-ages employees to have fun with work and can serve as a bonding experience. PARTICIPATE IN A LUNCHTIME ACTIVITY

Working out at lunch will give you more energy to get through your afternoon, not to mention it is de-stressing and will help you stay focused. If you tend to exercise after work, getting some activity in at lunch could help free up your time in the evening.5

OFFER FACILITIES THAT ENCOURAGE ACTIVITY This could include bike racks, an exercise room, exercise equipment, and change rooms with showers and lockers.6

Having an active workplace is an important part of a healthy and happy lifestyle. Use these tips to fill your time with short and easy activities that will keep you energized and productive all day!

Stephanie SmithSPRA Fieldwork Student, University of Regina

1, 4. Canadian Council for Health and Active Living at Work. (2004). Frequently Asked Ques-tions About Physical Activity in the Workplace. http://www.cchalw.ca/english/faq.aro.

2. Peak Fitness. (2013, July 21). Tips for Staying Active in the Office to Counteract the Ills of a Sedentary Job. Retrieved from: http://fitness.mercola.com/sites/fitness/archive/2013/07/12/ staying-active.aspx.

3. Citron-Funk, Ronnie. (2014). 9 Reasons Walking Meetings are way Better Than Sitting in the Boardroom. Retrieved from: http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/home/walking-meetings-betterthan- boardroom.htm.

5. Waehner, Paige. (n.d.). The Benefits of Lunchtime Workouts. Retrieved from Alliance Training Centre website at: http://www.alliancegym.com/the-benefits-of-lunchtime-workouts/.

6. Alberta Centre for Active Living. (n.d). How Your Organization Can Help Everyone to Be Active. Retrieved from: http://www.centre4activeliving.ca/workplace/ideas/organizational.html

04 March 2014

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS■ Increased awareness of how to improve his or her health■ Improved health and wellbeing■ Increased morale and job satisfaction■ Healthier workplace culture■ Increased productivity■ Reduced personal health care expenses■ Lower levels of stress■ Increased stamina■ Increased self-image and self-esteem■ Improved physical fitness■ Weight reductionSources: Alberta Centre for Active Living. (n.d). Bottom-Line Benefits for Physical Activity @ Work. Re-trieved from: http://www.centre4activeliving.ca/workplace/beforestart/benefits-bottom-line.htmlCanadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. (2008). Workplace Health and Wellness Guide (2nd ed.).

BENEFITS OF WORKSITE WELLNESS

EMPLOYER BENEFITS ■ Improved employee relations■ Improved company image■ Reduced absenteeism■ Fewer injuries and accidents■ Increased productivity■ Enhanced recruited potential ■ Reduced turnover■ Reduced healthcare costs■ Decreased rates of illness■ Reduced disability compensation and life insurance costs ■ Reduced effects of a stressful workplace ■ Improved morale by creating a supportive environment

Worksite wellness programs help support healthy behaviors to the benefit of both the employer and employee. A workplace filled with healthy and fulfilled employees has a direct effect on the overall performance of an organization. Read on to discover the tangible benefits associated with worksite wellness programs.

March 2014 05

HOW TO CREATE A WELLNESS COMMITTEEEstablishing a wellness committee is a very important aspect of wellness programs. Included below are some tips on how to get one started in your organization.

OBTAIN ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENT

Obtain organizational commitment for your workplace well-ness committee through meetings, presentations and pro-posal writing. Get buy-in from management to ensure action on recommendations.

CREATE A WELLNESS COMMITTEE

This step focuses on the creation of a Wellness Committee and involves recruiting members. Ensure that members rep-resent the range of departments or interests within your orga-nization. Designate a Chair and create a Terms of Refer-ence. The Terms of Reference should outline the purpose of the Committee, terms of service, duties and responsibilities of committee members, number of meetings and decision-making protocol.

SET YOUR DIRECTION

Identify your organizational strengths and challenges. Strengths may include existing resources and wellness programs and opportunities for development. Challenges include possible roadblocks that may impede the success of a workplace wellness initiative. You should also create a vision for your workplace wellness activities. For example: “Company ___ will be a supportive work environment where people value and practice healthy and safe living.”

AWARENESS CAMPAIGN

In this step you will educate employees about the importance of workplace wellness, the purpose of the committee and how the program will progress.

GATHER INFORMATION

Gathering information about your workplace environment and the employees needs, interests, and concerns. (i.e. sugges-tion boxes, small group discussions, survey, staff meetings,

or review statistics related to employee wellness - absentee-ism, benefit costs, sick days and staff turnover).

ACTION PLAN

Based on the workplace information collected, you will create an action plan. Set goals, activities and timelines to address workplace wellness issues. Possible activities include:

Awareness Raising: Activities that raise employees’ awareness about a particular wellness topic (i.e. posters, brochures, well-ness newsletter or email tips).

Skill Building: Provide skill building activities that encourage individuals to change their behaviour (i.e. seminars on conflict resolution, financial planning and time management, healthy cooking classes, company wide challenges - physical activity challenge or quit smoking contest).

Building Supportive Work Environments and Policies:Supportive work environment initiatives include: providing preventative safety equipment (i.e. ergonomic chairs and computer stations, or exercise mats); reorganizing the work-place to make maximum use of windows and air flow; creating incentives for employees to become involved in on or off-site fitness clubs; establishing flexible work hours and other fam-ily- friendly work policies; providing healthy choices in vending machines; and creating a smoke-free working environment).

EVALUATION

Measure your expected results (i.e. surveys, individual or group interviews, evaluation forms assessing knowledge, at-titude and behavior changes, environmental audits of wellness policies and programs, collection and analysis of changes in statistics). This information will help you “fine tune” your well-ness strategies to meet the needs of your employees.

Source: Muskoka-Parry Sound Health Unit. (n.d.). Wellness Works Guide: 7 Steps to Building a Healthier Workplace. Retrieved From: http://www.thcu.ca/workplace/sat/pubs/res19_1.pdf.

06 March 2014

SPRA PUTS RECREATION TO WORK

SPRA’S WORKPLACE WELLNESS POLICY

The objective of SPRA’s Workplace Wellness Policy is to improve the well-being of SPRA employees and at the same time provide leadership to the recreation community in the field of employee fitness.

As part of the policy, full-time employees receive two thirty minute workout time off sessions per week before or after work or as an extended lunch break to facilitate fitness activ-ity. Part-time employees receive one thirty minute workout time off session per week. This time is available for em-ployees who use the time specifically for fitness activity. For full-time employees a third workout each week before work or during lunch is expected and is at the time expense of the employee by either forfeiting the regular coffee break that day, by reducing the lunch hour to ½ hour (if the workout is at the beginning of the work day) or by staying ½ hour after work.

Another component of the SPRA Workplace Wellness Policy is the Employee Lifestyle and Fitness (ELF) Program. Through the ELF Program, full-time and part-time permanent employees, including contracted employees, are eligible to apply for up to $250.00 per year. Specifics of the ELF Program are included below:■ New employees are eligible after a waiting period. The support is pro-rated for the remainder of the year.■ At the discretion of the CEO, employees on leave may have their support pro-rated.■ Other positions within the organization may be eligible for support, upon approval of the CEO.■ Employees need to check with their physician before beginning any exercise program.■ Any purchases made must be directly related to a physical activity program (minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity a minimum of 3 days a week).■ The financial incentive cannot be used on clothing. However, equipment (i.e. skates, runners, cleats, etc.) is considered eligible.

SPRA is committed to creating a healthy work environment for its employees, and was recognized by Excellence Canada (Workplace Wellness Month - October 1-31, 2013) for its Employee Lifestyle Fitness Policy. Read on to learn how SPRA is putting recreation to work!

■ Golf expenses are ineligible.■ Expenses over $250.00 can be claimed each year until the full cost is recovered, for a maximum of 3 years. (i.e. Treadmill – cost $1,695.00 – can be claimed for 3 years in a row at $250.00 per year, contributing a total of $750.00 towards the purchase). An application and receipt must still be submitted each year for eligibility.■ Questions regarding eligible expenses are to be addressed to the CEO.

Visit the Healthy Work Place Month website at www.healthyworkplacemonth.ca/en/showcases to access wellness policies from other organizations, both big and small. Maybe you will find an idea you can use to transform your workplace into a happy, healthy and productive environment!

Lori RossSPRA Consultant - Communications

March 2014 07

GREEN SPACES AND WORKPLACES

In the recreation field, one would assume that nature and green space is routinely tied into our working environments. After all, outdoor space is a crucial component of many rec-reational activities and the management of Leisure, Recre-ation and Parks is often done together. It might be surprising to learn that many of our work environments actually contain minimal influence from nature, despite the benefits that green space can have on workplace productivity.

The presence of natural light, outdoor environments and natural aspects contribute to lower stress levels, increased worker productivity and overall workplace wellness.1 Stress in the workplace is becoming increasingly prevalent as demands on staff are increased and resources become tighter. Managing stress is becoming very important and studies have repeatedly shown that exposure to nature in the workplace significantly reduces employee stress - on those particularily stressful days get outside and go for a walk!2

“At work, staff with nature views reported fewer ailments and showed greater job satisfaction. They report feeling less frustrated and more patient, found their job more challenging, expressed greater enthu-siasm for it, and reported higher life satisfaction and overall health.”3

Most employers are continually seeking methods of increas-ing workplace productivity. Tying the natural environment to the workplace can significantly increase productivity.

INDOORS

Encourage the use of natural light when possible. Natural light is proven to reduce stress on an employee and subcon-sciously improve their wellbeing. Indoor plants can also add color, effect air quality and help regulate temperatures; all contributing to a healthier workplace.

OUTDOORS

Focus on introducing nature to your area of work. This could include new planters, sprucing up an existing entrance or patio or just revitalizing an existing landscape. Staff will feel better in a facility that looks better. You can even get them involved in these landscape projects and allow them to expe-rience the true benefit of working outdoors.

A healthy environment will lead to a healthy workplace. Walking through pleasant surroundings to your office, be-ing able to see indoor and outdoor landscapes and having access to an enjoyable outdoor space will all contribute to workplace wellness in your organization.

Andrew ExelbySPRA Consultant - Parks and Open Spaces

Are you interested in increasing productivity

and decreasing stress in the workplace? Maybe its

time to think green!

1. Shibata, S. and N. Suzuki. (2002). Effects of the Foliage Plant on Task Performance and Mood. Journal of Environmental Psychology, 22, 265-272.2. Trow, Tina. (1999). The Power of Trees. Illinois Steward, 7(4). Retrieved from: http://lhhl.illinois.edu/media/thepoweroftrees.htm. 3. Kaplan, R. (2001). The nature of the view from home - Psychological benefits. Environment and Behavior, 33(4), 507-542.

08 March 2014

THE BENEFITS OF AN OFFICE ERGONOMIC ASSESSMENT

Ergo – what? No, it is not a Salsa dance move or a game

you play on your iPhone. However, it is something you

can apply in the office to make you feel better!

Merriam Webster defines ergonomics as “a science that deals with designing and arranging things so that people can use them easily and safely”.

This can pertain to any environment such as home or work. If you work in an office, ergonomics is applied by assessing how you sit or stand to do your computer and paper work. An office ergonomic assessment looks at various factors including: poor working habits such as sitting forward in an office chair, improper positioning of equipment such as moni-tors, keyboard or computer mouse; poor fit or lack of support from an office chair; over-reaching for items such as the printer and reference manuals; and improper working heights of the keyboard and writing surfaces. Any of these problems can contribute to discomfort which can lead to health issues such as tendonitis, joint pain, numbness or tingling.

Various ergonomic strategies can be implemented to prevent or improve issues such as eye, joint, or muscular strain. Some of these strategies are: ■ Altering how you complete duties - incorporating different duties so you are not sitting or standing too long in one position■ Re-organizing your work space - removing obstructions from underneath your workstation ■ Re-adjusting work surfaces to the appropriate working height - altering the height of the keyboard and computer mouse ■ Obtaining equipment and furniture that fits you properly - supportive office chair

An office ergonomic assessment can be done proactively or reactively. When done proactively, an ergonomic assess-ment will improve your comfort at work, improve efficiency, and prevent injury. When done reactively after discomfort or injury, an ergonomic assessment will improve your comfort at work, reduce time loss from work, and decrease health care costs. Overall, benefits will be gained for you the employee, and also for your employer.

If you would like further information regarding Office Ergonomic Assessment services, contact James at (306)539-3036, or via email at jfong@accesscomm.ca.

James Fong Occupational Therapist Regina Occupational Therapy Inc.

The Canadian Policy Research Network estimates that stress-related absences cost Canadian employers about $3.5 billion each year. C. Williams, and J. Normand. 2003. “Stress at Work”. Canadian Social Trends. August 2003, no. 70. Retreived From: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/11-008-x/2003002/

DID YOU KNOW

March 2014 09

Both teams and individuals were invited to enter the Well-ness Challenge which ran from January 13th until February 23rd. Each member tracked daily wellness points in the areas of nutrition, physical activity, water and sleep. At the end of the challenge, the total points from each team were com-piled, and prizes were awarded to the top 5 overall individu-als with the highest points, as well as, a prize for the team with the highest average of points. However, the greatest prize of all was health and well-being!

In line with the Canada food guide, participants received points for eating a balanced food plate at three specific meal times: Breakfast – at least 3 food groups; Lunch – at least 4 food groups; Supper – at least 4 food groups. A daily journal and tracking sheet were included in participants’ packages to monitor food intake so people became more aware of what they are eating.

Participants were encouraged to drink up to eight glasses of water each day - to help flush our systems of waste products and toxins and prevent dehydration which causes tiredness, low energy, and headaches. It’s also common to mistake thirst for hunger, so stay well hydrated!

There was a maximum of 6 physical activity points up for grabs with each point attributed to every 10 minutes of physi-cal activity completed. Rest is just as important as activity as it allows your body to repair itself and recover from the day’s events. Participants could potentially accumulate a maximum of 8 points in this category - 1 point equalling each hour of sleep.

Val Choo-Foo, the in motion community facilitator with the City of Swift Current, coordinated the Wellness Challenge. 45 teams and over 450 participants took part this year, which is up from 22 teams and 250 participants the previous year.

“This year’s challenge is themed ‘a healthy start to the centennial year’ and I am excited that so many people have

signed up,” said Choo-Foo. “We have teams represented by city council, local businesses and school administration, to mention a few. There is a real buzz around Swift Current about the Challenge.”

A special thanks goes out to the Cypress Health Region who helped with the design of the Challenge, as well as Pharma-save, for offering free weekly seminars on several important health issues including stopping smoking, coping with stress, nutrition and more. Coordinators would also like to thank to Body Fit, Central Avenue Physiotherapy, Glass Slipper Spa and the Aquatic Centre for donating prizes.

Choo-Foo is hoping that the Challenge creates awareness, not only in the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle, but also on the importance of reflecting on current habits. By providing some basic guidelines on what constitutes a healthy lifestyle, participants are better able to make in-formed choices.

Here at the City of Swift Current, we want to promote health and wellness and provide our residents’ with the opportunity to live in a place where a ‘healthy’ life makes sense.

One of our own employees has benefited from taking part in the wellness challenge last year. Visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbVSu5w94R8&feature=youtu.be to view Dwayne’s success story.

For more information on the Wellness Challenge, contact Val Choo-Foo at (306) 778-2787 or by email atv.choofoo@swiftcurrent.ca.

Kelly Schafer City of Swift Current

SWIFT CURRENT WHERE THE ‘HEALTHY’ LIFE MAKES SENSEThe City of Swift Current is dedicated to providing its residents with many opportunities to stay active and healthy. One event that did just that was the 2nd annual Wellness Challenge.

10 March 2014

Did you know that more than 15 million Canadians spend half of their waking hours at work and that more than half get no physical activity in their leisure time? The most recent Canadian Health Measures Survey found that 85 percent of Canadian adults do not meet the recommended amount of physical activity (150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per week). Even more alarming, in Saskatchewan 23 people will have a heart attack or stroke each day. But there’s good news - a healthy lifestyle can reduce your risk of this disease by as much as 80 per cent.

WORKPLACE WELLNESS IS A WIN-WIN FOR EVERYONE“Workplace wellness” refers to the health of an entire or-ganization - the employee, the culture at the worksite and the health of the company’s bottom line. A comprehensive workplace wellness program provides opportunities for em-ployees to engage in healthy lifestyles, offering benefits to all involved, such as:■ Improved employee health and well-being■ Increased office morale and productivity■ Decreased health care, disability and worker compensation costs■ Lower rates of absenteeism■ Added incentive for potential employees and improved employee retention

WAYS TO “WELLERGIZE” YOUR DAY

Whether or not your office has a formal workplace wellness program, there are always ways to incorporate healthy life-style habits into your day.

It’s the little things that count■ Use the bathroom on another floor or get water from the cooler or kitchen in another department. ■ Go to the coffee shop across the street for a break instead of heading to your workplace lounge. ■ Offer to run extra errands on your breaks to burn more calories than you would sitting at your desk. ■ Sit on an exercise ball while at your computer to improve balance and tone your core muscles.■ Take the stairs instead of the elevator.

Got 10 minutes?■ Book a walking meeting with a co-worker. ■ Create a strength routine at your workstation. During your lunch hour, warm up by marching in place, then do squats, lunges and push-ups, using your desk or the wall.

Got 30 minutes?■ Over lunch, try a “walk-run,” alternating 2 minutes of walking with 2 minutes of running, or recruit walking club members and walk a different route every day.

SAY GOODBYE TO THE “DESK POTATO” AND HELLO TO WORKPLACE WELLNESSWe all want good health and well-being and more quality years to spend with friends and family, but this doesn’t just happen on its own. The good news is that the workplace is a great environ-ment to start developing healthy habits that will help you have a longer, healthier life.

March 2014 11

■ Enlist 10 or more co-workers, book a meeting room, and hire a yoga or tai chi instructor. ■ Volunteer for field projects that get you out of the office and require you to move more. ■ Sign up at a gym near your workplace for lunch-hour aerobics, treadmill, stationary bicycle or elliptical workouts.

FIND YOUR “ZEN”Work often means stress - whether you’re driving a truck, writ-ing a report or corralling a roomful of toddlers. And stress is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Some people with high levels of stress or prolonged stress may have higher blood cholesterol or increased blood pressure, or be more prone to making unhealthier choices as a way to cope.

So it’s important to keep work-place stress under control. No matter how busy your job, here are six strategies you can try today:

Got two minutes?■ Stretch away tension. A common sign of stress is muscle tension in your neck and jaw. Find a quiet spot to stand or sit with your eyes closed while you slowly move your head from front to back, side to side, and in a full circle. Then stretch your mouth open, slowly moving your lower jaw from side to side and front to back. (If this activity causes pain, or you have had any injuries to your back, neck or jaw, check with your healthcare provider first).

Got 10 minutes?■ Take a walk. Physical activity relieves stress and walking

energizes your body and spirit. Even 10 minutes is enough to make a difference. Bring a friend to add a little social time. ■ Meditate. Find a private room to sit, relax and close your eyes. Breathe slowly and deeply for about three minutes, allowing your thoughts to come and go.■ Make an appointment for help. See if your employer offers an Employee/Family Assistance Program and make an appointment for confidential counselling to help you deal with workplace stress.

Got 30 minutes?■ Talk to your boss. If your workload feels out of control, try to speak to your manager about developing some flexibility in your job demands. ■ Tackle something big. Putting things off can create added stress. Set aside time to start on a looming project, even if it’s just to plan your attack.

WHAT JUNK IS IN YOUR WORK TRUNKWe all feel it, the morning tiredness and afternoon exhaus-tion. What can we do to keep our bodies fuelled and ener-gized during the work day? The answer is simple. Snacking! Snacking, as part of a healthy diet, can boost your energy between meals, help supply your body with the essential vitamins and minerals and keep your sugar levels stable. Healthy snacks can help curb hunger between meals and stop you from overeating at mealtimes.

Here are some tips on how to incorporate healthy snacks into your work day:1. Ensure your snacks include at least two of the four food groups. ■ Apple + Cheese ■ Yogurt + Nuts ■ Crackers + Hummus

12 March 2014

2. Limit snacks to no more than three a day and aim for snacks with less than 200 calories each. Examples include: ■ 1 slice of whole wheat flat bread with 1 Tbsp. hummus ■ ½ whole wheat bagel with 1 Tbsp. peanut butter ■ 7 whole grain crackers with 1 oz. of light canned tuna3. Package foods in small portions. Eating directly from large containers often leads to eating more.4. Drink water often. Water has no calories, quenches your thirst and helps you feel full.5. Learn to recognize true hunger. Skip the urge to nibble when you are bored, tired, upset or stressed.

At work, keep a snacking survival kit filled with canned fruit, whole grain crackers, peanut butter, unsalted nuts, dried fruit, low-fat cereal bars and trail mix. Choose snacks that are lower in calories, fat, sugar and salt (sodium) and higher in fibre.

THE TAKEAWAY More employers are taking ownership and instituting work-place wellness programs to the benefit of the organization and all employees. However, with or without a formal work-place wellness program, healthy lifestyle changes begin with YOU. Create a longer, healthier life for yourself by following some of these simple steps. How to keep with it? Schedule the time into your day; even add reminders to your calendar. Keep tabs on what you’re doing so you can see your im-provements and you’ll be motivated to keep going.

Do yourself a favour and get out from behind your desk today. Your heart will thank you.

For more information about workplace wellness, contact Stephanie Cross, Sr. Manager of Health Promotion, by phone at (306) 244-6822, extenstion 245, or by email at crosss@hsf.sk.ca.

About the Heart and Stroke Foundation The Heart and Stroke Foundation’s mission is to prevent disease, save lives and promote recovery. A volunteer-based health charity, we strive to tangibly improve the health of every Canadian family, every day. ‘Healthy lives free of heart disease and stroke. Together we will make it happen’. Heartandstroke.ca

First Nation Member's Recreation Grant Application deadline: April 1, 2014 This grant assists First Nation active members to develop recreation opportunities in the First Nation com-munities within Saskatchewan.

Métis Recreation Development Grant Application deadline: April 1, 2014 This grant assists SPRA Active Members to develop recreation opportunities for Métis people in Saskatchewan.

Forever...in motion GrantApplication deadline: April 15, 2014A maximum of $3000 is available to Active Members of SPRA for Forever...in motion program implementation. For information on these grants, visit the SPRA website at www.spra.sk.ca/funding.

GRANTS AND FUNDING

EVENTS Spring Education and Training Symposium April 14 - 17, 2014 (Humboldt, SK) The Symposium provides recreation, facility, parks practitioners and volunteers with the latest information and trends in the parks and facility industry.

SPRA Conference and Annual General Meeting October 23 - 25, 2014 (Humboldt, SK)The Conference will bring together recreation practitio-ners, parks and facility operators and volunteers from across the Province for the opportunity to network and learn the latest information in the parks and recreation field. Expect inspiring presenters, informative sessions, a Trade Show and entertaining social events.

For information on upcoming events, visit the SPRA website at www.spra.sk.ca/events.

FREE FIRST AID APP

COULD YOUR PHONE SAVE SOMEONE’S LIFE?

Launched last year, the app supplements training and provides instant access to information in the event of an emergency. Users can sharpen their skills through interac-tive quizzes and videos, or access simple step-by-step instructions to help them respond to an emergency. Used in conjunction with training, the app increases Canadians’ skills and confidence to intervene in health emergencies.

The app is available for Android, iPhone and iPad and can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Android by searching for “Canadian Red Cross.” It is also available on the Red Cross website at redcross.ca/apps.

BENEFITS OF FIRST AID IN THE WORKPLACE

In a workplace emergency, it’s human nature to want to help in any way we can. The value of first aid training provides two main benefits: it gives workers the knowledge and skills to effectively respond; and it provides the confidence and courage to act in emergency situations.

But it also provides another important benefit - people who take first aid training are 40 percent less likely to be injured.

In the workplace, compliance with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations is usually the main motivator to certify employees in first aid and CPR, but training offers ad-ditional benefits.

Financially speaking, the impact of injuries leading to fines, absenteeism, and compensation can be significant.

Nearly 40 percent of Canadians say they’ve been in an emergency situation where they’ve had to perform first aid, according to a recent poll by the Canadian Red Cross. Although more than two-thirds of Canadians say they can recognize the signs of a life-threatening health emergency, like choking or a heart attack, only half are confident in their skills to help. That’s why the Red Cross is urging Canadians to take a first aid course and download its free First Aid App.

Prevention is an important key to mitigating these costs. For employees, training can contribute to the overall well-being and quality of life at work and at home.

WHY CONTINUOUS TRAINING IS NECESSARY

First aid and CPR are based on science and research that continuously evolves. When research findings change, the training content changes. That means the skills employees need to respond to injuries and illnesses in the workplace also change.

As the national leader in first aid and CPR training, the Red Cross is a significant contributor in the development of train-ing guidelines across the country, providing over 600,000 Canadians with first aid courses each year.

The Red Cross First Aid program also offers workplaces flex-ible scheduling options to meet their needs, ensuring training is as accessible as possible.

To learn more, visit redcross.ca/firstaid. To find a course in your area, visit redcross.ca/findacourse or for information on online courses, visit redcrosselearning.ca.

Christopher Clemett Communications Manager, Saskatchewan and ManitobaCanadian Red Cross

March 2014 13

Does Your Community Value: Environmental sustainability Heritage recognition Greenspaces Overall community involvement Community pride

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Henderson has been bringing the fun to playgrounds across Canada since 1971. As the nation’s leading playground maker, we offer a full range of products to satisfy every child. From our flagship PlaySteel line to our new and exciting climbing rocks, play sculptures and rope play products, we have what it takes to make your project a success. Visit our new and improved website to learn more. Protect the fun!

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For more information or to register, contact: Andrew Exelby, SPRA Consultant – Parks and Open Spaces at (306) 780-9262 or by email at aexelby@spra.sk.ca.

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If you said yes, maybe its time for your community to get involved in Communities in Bloom!

March 2014 15

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Publication Mail Agreement #41967532 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: SPRA • 100 – 1445 Park Street • Regina, SK • S4N 4C5 • email: office@spra.sk.ca