December 2022 Open Line
December 16, 2022
Find Your Fitness Challenge
Monday, Jan. 9 - Sunday, Feb. 5
This New Year, uncover ways to be physically active that are enjoyable to YOU. Each week you’ll have a different task to try. You’ll also have an opportunity to reflect on how you felt about the week’s tasks. Then you’ll rate whether you enjoyed it! Don’t worry if you don’t do each task perfectly – just give it your best effort and don’t forget to have fun.
Visit https://stateoftennessee.formstack.com/forms/wfhtn_find_your_fitness_challenge to sign up for the optional Microsoft Teams chat and/or challenge communications by Friday, Jan. 6. You can also access the challenge tracker to participate on your own time: https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/wfhtn/documents/wfhtn_find_your_fitness_challenge_worksheet_final.pdf
You can access all upcoming activities, webinars, and workouts at https://www.tn.gov/wfhtn/challenges/wellness-events.html
No Late Fees at This LIbrary!
The Working for a Healthier Tennessee team regularly updates the Video Library on our website. From Food Safety When Hosting a Party to Deskercise-Neck and Shoulder Stretches to How to Create a Standing Desk, you’re sure to find something for you.
Check it out at https://www.tn.gov/wfhtn/resources/video-library.html
Recipe of the Week!
Happy Hanukkah! This Baked Latkes recipe is a healthier way to make a dish that’s traditionally fried. Enjoy with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream!
https://www.tn.gov/wfhtn/resources/recipes/sides/baked-latkes.html
December 9, 2022
Eating Mindfully Can Help This Holiday
During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it can be a challenge to take a break and savor the moment, including when we enjoy meals or snacks. Eating mindfully can be helpful in several ways. These include feeling fuller sooner, which means eating less, allowing more appreciation for food, and having an opportunity to slow down.
Try this 10-minute Mindful Eating Meditation and share what you learned from the exercise.
*Five participants chosen at random will win a prize!*
Upcoming Virtual Events
Tips for a Healthy, Stress-free Holiday (presented by ActiveHealth)
Friday, Dec. 16 from 10-10:30 a.m. CT
The holidays can be exciting, but they can also add stress – both good and bad. We’ll discuss common holiday stressors, ways to manage your stress, and coping skills that can help with holiday anxiety.
Download calendar invite.
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
Last week state employees gathered to test their holiday food knowledge. If you couldn’t join the fun, take this quiz by Tuesday, Dec. 20 for a chance to win one of three prizes! Holiday Food Trivia:
https://stateoftennessee.formstack.com/forms/holiday_food_trivia_submission_form
You can access all upcoming activities, webinars, and workouts at https://www.tn.gov/wfhtn/challenges/wellness-events.html
Recipe of the Week
Cozy up with some Healthy Hot Chocolate. ☕ Using fat-free or low-fat milk or a plain non-dairy alternative and/or dark chocolate makes this a healthier and delicious treat.
https://www.tn.gov/wfhtn/resources/recipes/drinks/healthy-hot-chocolate.html
December 2, 2022
Spotlight on Volunteering
Research shows volunteering has many health benefits including improving mental and physical health, providing a sense of purpose, teaching valuable skills, and nurturing new and existing relationships. This holiday season there are plenty of ways to get involved. Find volunteer opportunities and learn about the health benefits:
Upcoming Virtual Events
Food is a staple at holiday parties around the world. From sweet potato casserole to latkes, foods that may be familiar to you might be new to someone else. Learn more about 15 unique holiday foods from around the world:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/holiday-foods
Join us for Holiday Food Trivia!
Thursday, Dec. 8 from 1-1:15 p.m. CT
Do you know your holiday foods? Join us to find out!
What to Expect: WFHTN Wellness Coordinator Morgan will lead trivia. The top three winners will be awarded a prize. An additional prize will be awarded to a participant chosen at random! We’ll play using the platform Mentimeter. The link to play will be provided the day of trivia.
Download the calendar invite.
You can access all upcoming WFHTN activities, webinars, and workouts at https://www.tn.gov/wfhtn/challenges/wellness-events.html
Recipe of the Week
Thursday, Dec. 8 is National Brownie Day!
To celebrate this important holiday, try these brownies with a surprise ingredient: black beans! This sweet treat is delicious and has the nutritional bonus of fiber.
https://www.tn.gov/wfhtn/resources/recipes/desserts/black-bean-brownies.html