Mental Health Matters
I cannot dive into business without first asking how you are doing. The terrorist attack on Israel, the humanitarian crisis developing, and the daily increase of tension in the Middle East has been overwhelmingly stressful. You can feel it in the air here in NYC. In times like these, we have to take extra good care of ourselves and one another. I will continue to hold space for you and your loved ones as you need me.
With the events of the past week, it seems very fitting to talk about how Global Mental Health Awareness Day was October 10th. It is a day to “raise awareness and promote mental health education, advocacy, and support.” As many of you know, as a result of my mental health journey, mental health is a passion of mine. I spoke recently on my social media platforms about the stigma I faced, from the very healthcare professionals that I was seeking help from, as I was first navigating my care. I vowed to always be open and provide support for others because no one should be made to feel shame when trying to seek help.
As a result of my conversations, I was recently connected to the nonprofit organization, Still I Run. Its mission is to promote the mental health benefits of running. It started as a Facebook group and now has a national presence. While they have several methods of outreach, I’d like to highlight their Starting Line Scholarship program. It is designed to remove all barriers that one might face when trying to get into running. They provide sneakers, gear, coaching, etc. If you or anyone you know would like to run for their mental health and is having trouble with mojo, finances, etc., I would love to connect you.
For more information here is the website.
On an exciting note, they have a team running the NYC marathon on November 5th. I will be a guest at their pre-marathon brunch where I will speak and lead the runners in a guided meditation. I will let you know how it goes.
October also happens to be National Physical Therapy Month.
Does mental health affect your PT outcomes? ABSOLUTELY!
You cannot have good physical health if you are not healthy mentally. Pain is also harder to manage in times of stress and anxiety. It is why I treat pain from a biopsychosocial approach. While we might have soft tissue or bony injury (bio), your mental health, social support, economic status (all psychosocial) can influence your ability to recover. It is important to look at the WHOLE picture when someone is trying to heal.
If you or someone you know is dealing with “sciatica”, here is a link to my latest media appearance. In this article are several tips to manage symptoms at home.
If you have any PT or wellness needs, please reach out. Did you know I also do 1:1 yoga and small group classes? If you think yoga is something you would like to add to your self-care routine or you want to grab some friends for a class, let me know. I think yoga and stress management is more important than ever.
For more entrepreneurial musings and PT/yoga tips, follow me on IG: @slptnyc
As always, I am grateful to YOU.