Guide a team of dogs across the frozen tundra in the north, travel across the western plains like the pioneers did, or swim with the dolphins in the Caribbean. That is what employees of Southport Animal Hospital will be doing as they participate in a virtual physical activity tour of North America. The PEI Active Living Alliance marked Canadian Healthy Workplace Week by launching a North American Adventure program today. This program is designed to help workplaces encourage their employees to become more physically active. The program was launched at Southport Animal Hospital where the employees of Southport Animal Hospital are taking the challenge to become more physically active.
The Honourable Elmer MacFadyen, Minister of Community & Cultural Affairs, was on hand to participate in the launch of this program. He indicated that currently, "Islanders are working harder and longer hours, which can lead to such negative effects as increased stress, hypertension, and anxiety. The need for people to participate in physical activity has never before been so important as it is today. With time as a major barrier against our regular participation in physical activity, we need to start thinking about ways we can incorporate more activity into our daily routine."
Canada's Guide to Physical Activity recommends that adults receive 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week in order to receive the health benefits associated with being active. By participating in A North American Adventure, employees will be encouraged to reach this goal and to incorporate simple activities into their daily routine and realize the benefits of leading a healthy active lifestyle!
Dawn Binns, President of the PEI Active Living Alliance indicated, "Workplaces have much to benefit from encouraging their employees to be more active. Physically active employees have reduced stress and lower rates of absenteeism as well as increased self-esteem and productivity." In addition, it has been shown that employers who support and encourage workplace wellness are more likely to attract and keep talented employees. Dr. Claudia Lister, owner of Southport Animal Hospital echoed these thoughts. She has been encouraging her employees to participate in physical activity through offering a workplace Stepping Out program last year and now participating in this program this year. "It helps to build staff morale and it is easy to implement programs such as these in the workplace."
For more information or to register your workplace for the North American Adventure, contact the PEI Active Living Alliance at 569-7688 or 1-866-569-7688 or visit us online at www.peiactiveliving.com.