May is an ideal month to focus on physical and mental wellness. As the weather improves, take the opportunity to connect with nature and prioritize your mental health. Here are resources to help you get involved this month, along with other significant celebrations.

Mind Over Miles: Walking Our Way to Wellbeing

👟 Walk your way: Set a personal walking goal for May, whether it’s 5,000 or 15,000 steps a day. Walking is a powerful way to boost your mental clarity and physical health.

🌎 Go global: Share photos on the Pacer app of your favorite walking spots globally.

👥 Team up: Invite a colleague to join you for a “walking meeting” or simply a stroll to recharge. Walking together can foster new ideas and deepen connections.

🏆 Celebrate your wins: Track your steps and celebrate milestones.

Fun fact: Just 30 minutes of walking a day can reduce depression by 36%.

Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that wellbeing is also mental wellness. Prioritize your mental health by:

  • Checking in with yourself regularly
  • Practicing mindfulness or meditation
  • Learning more about mental health
  • Reaching out for support if needed

Helpful Resources

Books:

  • “Maybe You Should Talk to Someone” by Lori Gottlieb: A funny, wise and emotional look into therapy from both sides of the couch.
  • “The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel van der Kolk: A groundbreaking book about how trauma reshapes the body and brain.

Documentaries:

  • “The Mind, Explained” (Netflix): An accessible and fascinating look at how the human mind works.
  • “Heal” (Netflix/Amazon): Explores the mind-body connection and the science behind the healing process.

Monthly Mentions

Here are other important observances this month to keep in mind:

  • Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
  • Global Employee Health & Fitness Month
  • Military Appreciation Month

 

Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support Is Always Available 

Free confidential help is available through the employee assistance program (EAP), provided by BHS: 

  • In-the-moment support for personal or work-related challenges 
  • Master’s level clinicians ready to assist you 24/7 
  • MyBHS Portal offers over 500,000 tools, webinars, and resources on health and wellness 

Call or text any time: 800-327-2251 

Portal: portal.BHSonline.com (ID: MCIUSA) 

Examples of reasons to reach out:

  • Stress and anxiety
  • Burnout and work conflicts
  • Parenting support
  • Relationship challenges
  • Financial or legal concerns

    This service is confidential, free and available to you and your household members. 

 

We Want to Hear from You!

How are you celebrating Mind Over Miles or supporting Mental Health Awareness this May? Share your story or a photo with us, and we’d love to feature you in an upcoming newsletter. Email us at USSustainabilityChamps@wearemci.com. 

Let’s make this month about motion, mindfulness and connecting.