CHAPLAINCY&

WELLBEING

October is mental health month!!

As we start winding up towards Christmas and the loooooong school holiday break – take some time to check in on your self. We are often our own worst enemy and coming out of winter and hitting the unpredictability that is spring weather, we can be at our lowest.

On those days when the sun is shining  - take the opportunity to get some Vitamin D.

Why Vitamin D is Important 

• Bone Health: It helps your body absorb calcium, which is crucial for strong bones and preventing conditions like osteoporosis.
• Immune System: Vitamin D supports a healthy immune system.
• Mood: It can also help improve your mood.

How to Balance Sun Exposure

• Incidental Exposure: For many, adequate vitamin D levels are reached through brief, incidental sun exposure on most days. 
• Be Cautious: While sunlight is vital, it's also the main cause of skin cancer. Always remember to protect your skin with sun-safe clothing and sunscreen when the UV Index is 3 or above. 

Check your water intake.

Drinking water regularly is crucial for overall health because it regulates body temperature, transports nutrients, and helps the body eliminate waste. Staying hydrated supports nearly every bodily function, from lubricating joints to aiding digestion and maintaining organ health. Insufficient water intake can lead to dehydration, which causes fatigue, headaches, and reduced cognitive and physical performance. 

How much sleep are you getting?

Prioritizing good quality sleep supports emotional regulation and overall mental well-being.

General Sleep Recommendations by Age 

• Newborns (0-3 months): Around 14-17 hours
• Infants (4-11 months): Around 12-15 hours
• Toddlers (1-2 years): Around 11-14 hours
• Pre-schoolers (3-5 years): Around 10-13 hours
• School-aged children (6-13 years): Around 9-11 hours
• Teenagers (14-17 years): Around 8-10 hours
• Young Adults to Older Adults (18+ years): 7-9 hours

Be kind to yourself.