Where Wellness Matters

Staff Wellness Program

Vision

Employees of the Anoka-Hennepin School District will value a healthy lifestyle and will make choices that demonstrate their desire for wellness.

Mission

To promote and support employee wellness. Being healthy and happy is something that all Anoka-Hennepin employees and their families deserve. The staff wellness program, Where Wellness Matters, created by the district's Wellness Steering Committee, is devoted to helping achieve this goal. You are welcome to participate in various ways through district-sponsored wellness. Each building has identified a Wellness Champion (wellness contact) to help serve as a resource.

Our partner Medica provides designated funds towards the wellness program; this program is not district funded. Let's work together in bringing continued health and happiness to our Anoka-Hennepin team!

Building Wellness Champion

Did you know that each building in our district can apply for a $750 mini grant to be used toward wellness initiatives? Check with your building to find out who your wellness champion is. For 2024-2025, an extra $100 will be given to those early birds that submit their wellness grants ahead of the deadline. Grant submission deadline is March 6, 2025.

• Community Education Classes and discount codes:
  
  • Staff Wellness discount code: WSWD25. Use this discount code for up to 2 classes related to money, health, or fitness.

May 2025

Hey there!

Feeling a little blah? Need a quick pick-me-up that's absolutely free and has incredible health benefits? Look no further than the simple act of laughter! It's more than just a reaction to something funny; it's a powerful tool for your physical and mental well-being.

The Happy Hormones are Calling!

When you laugh, your body releases a cascade of feel-good chemicals. Think of it as an internal happy hour!

• Endorphins: These natural pain relievers and mood boosters can help reduce stress and create a sense of euphoria.
• Dopamine: This neurotransmitter plays a key role in pleasure and motivation, leaving you feeling satisfied and content.
• Serotonin: Often associated with feelings of well-being and happiness, serotonin helps regulate mood and anxiety.

Laughter: A Workout for Your Body (Believe It or Not!)

That hearty belly laugh isn't just a sound; it engages various muscle groups:

• Core Muscles: Your diaphragm, abdominal muscles, and even your face get a gentle workout.
• Respiratory System: Laughter increases your oxygen intake, stimulating your heart and lungs.
• Stress Relief: By reducing stress hormones like cortisol, laughter can ease tension throughout your body.

More Than Just Physical: The Mental Perks of a Good Giggle

The benefits of laughter extend beyond the physical realm, significantly impacting your mental and emotional health:

• Stress Buster: Laughter helps you cope with stressful situations by shifting your perspective and providing a temporary escape.
• Mood Elevator: It's a natural antidepressant, lightening your mood and promoting a more positive outlook.
• Social Connection: Sharing a laugh with others strengthens bonds, fosters intimacy, and creates a sense of belonging.
• Pain Management: Studies have even suggested that laughter can help increase your pain tolerance.

Injecting More Laughter into Your Day:

So, how can you bring more of this amazing medicine into your life? Here are a few ideas:

• Seek out humor: Watch funny movies or TV shows, listen to comedy podcasts, or read humorous books.
• Spend time with funny people: Surround yourself with friends and family who make you laugh.
• Don't take yourself too seriously: Learn to laugh at your own mistakes and imperfections.
• Practice laughter yoga: This unique practice combines deep breathing with playful laughter exercises.
• Share a joke: Brighten someone else's day (and your own!) with a funny story or one-liner.
• Embrace the silly: Sometimes, the best laughs come from the most unexpected and ridiculous moments.

A Final Thought:

Laughter truly is a gift. It's a natural, accessible, and powerful way to boost your overall well-being. So, go ahead, find something that tickles your funny bone today and let the good times (and the good health!) roll.

Wishing you a day filled with joy and laughter!

Additional resources:

• The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise
• Community Education Classes and Staff Wellness discount code: WSWD25. Use this discount code for up to 2 classes related to money, health, or fitness.
• Wellness website.

Contact the Optum Employee Assistance Program toll-free 1-800-626-7944 24 hours a day, 7 days a week anytime you need help with life’s concerns. Liveandworkwell.com Access code: medica