Isolation & Health
Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to increased risk of heart disease, stroke, depression, and other health conditions. While physical distancing measures are necessary to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, finding strategies to maintain and improve health – such as physical activity – are more important than ever.
Physical Activity & Well-being
With many Canadians continuing to work from home, finding ways to “detach” from work are increasingly difficult. But according to a recent study, engaging in regular physical activity can improve mood and enhance life satisfaction, both of which contribute to subjective well-being on the job (even if it’s in your home).
COVID-19 Impact Research
Has balancing working from home and childcare decreased the physical activity of Canadians during COVID-19 restrictions; or have more flexible work schedules and social support increase physical activity? These are some of the questions driving new research exploring the impact of public health measures on physical activity and wellbeing.
Throwback Thursday – Cycling
Dusting off your bike to take advantage of the health benefits of cycling during the current public health restrictions? Whether cycling to work, the grocery store or just for fun, this #ThrowbackThursday SIRC blog provides important tips to stay safe including helmet fit, and important signs, signals and regulations for cyclists and drivers.
COVID Communication Fatigue: Before you add another online meeting, stop and reconsider
As the COVID-19 crisis continues, complaints of meeting fatigue are on the rise. Have you found your day filled with back-to-back Zoom calls, where you stare blankly at the poorly lit face of a colleague on the computer screen, as s/he provides a daily update, or report? “I hop from Zoom call to Zoom call…
Sitting All Day
Sitting all day can have short- and long-term health implications, from neck and back pain and mental fogginess, to increased risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Whether it’s a quick morning stretch with the kids, a lunch-time workout, a mid-afternoon walk with the dog, find ways to increase movement throughout the day. Read…
Managing Uncertainty Workbook
Game Plan’s Managing Uncertainty During COVID-19 workbook is a practical tool to support positive mental health through self-awareness, acceptance, adaptability and values-based behaviour. The workbook was developed for Canada’s high performance athletes but is great for anyone wanting to hone their skills and build resilience.
Videoconferencing
Feeling anxious? New research has shown that eye contact during interactions on video conferencing platforms has the same impact on our nervous system as in-person eye contact – helping us feel calm and connected. So turn on the video and adjust your camera to look directly at your family, friends and colleagues.
Carrot Rewards App
New research from Western University shows rewards as little as 4 cents a day can motivate physical activity-related behaviour change. Findings from a year-long evaluation of the Carrot Rewards app demonstrated use was associated with an increase in weekly step count on a population-scale, but was most evident for users who were physically inactive and…
COVID-19 Exercise Recommendations
The abrupt closure of gyms and recreational facilities, coupled with limited access to public parks and trails, has made it much more difficult to exercise. In response, researchers at McMaster University are developing exercise protocols to help combat the anxiety and mental stress brought on by social isolation, physical distancing and the uncertainty of the…