Importance of Staying Hydrated
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the hot summer months. Proper hydration helps regulate body temperature, keeps joints lubricated, prevents infections, and ensures that organs function properly. It also improves sleep quality, cognition, and mood.
Creative Ways to Increase Water Intake
- Infused Water: Add slices of fruits like lemon, lime, or berries to your water for a refreshing twist.
- Hydrating Foods: Include water-rich foods in your diet such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges.
- Set Reminders: Use a phone app or set regular reminders to drink water throughout the day.
- Water Bottles: Carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times and make it a habit to take sips regularly.
- Herbal Teas: Enjoy iced herbal teas that are caffeine-free and hydrating.
Signs of Dehydration to Watch For
- Thirst: Feeling thirsty is a sign that your body needs more water.
- Dry Mouth: A dry or sticky mouth can indicate dehydration.
- Dark Urine: Urine that is dark yellow or amber in color can be a sign of dehydration.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or lethargic can be due to low water levels.
- Dizziness: Experiencing dizziness or light-headedness might be a sign that you need to hydrate.
Stay safe and healthy this summer by keeping these hydration tips in mind!
Importance of Regular Mental Health Assessments
Regular mental health assessments are crucial for maintaining overall well-being. Just as we prioritize physical health check-ups, monitoring our mental health allows us to detect early signs of stress, anxiety, or other concerns. These assessments can help us identify areas where we may need support and ensure we're taking proactive steps towards better mental well-being.
Simple Techniques for Stress Management
Deep Breathing: Practice deep breathing exercises to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, then exhale slowly through your mouth.
Mindfulness Meditation: Dedicate a few minutes each day to mindfulness meditation. Focus on your breath and observe your thoughts without judgment. This practice can help calm the mind and reduce stress levels.
Physical Activity: Engage in regular physical activity to boost mood and reduce stress. Whether it's a brisk walk, yoga session, or workout routine, exercise releases endorphins that improve overall well-being.
Resources for Seeking Professional Help
It's important to recognize when professional support may be beneficial. If you or someone you know is experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, consider reaching out to:
- Employee Assistance Program: Confidential counseling services available through GPISD benefits.
- Licensed Therapists: Seek recommendations from your healthcare provider or Employee Assistance for licensed therapists who specialize in mental health.
Regular mental health check-ins and proactive stress management techniques contribute to a healthier and more resilient workforce. Prioritize your mental well-being, and remember, seeking help is a sign of strength.
Gym Membership
Exciting news! As of July 1st, 2024, One Pass Select is available to UHC Medical Members. With One Pass Select, we aim to make fitness engaging for everyone. This program can help you reach your fitness goals while discovering new passions along the way. Whether you prefer working out at home or at the gym, you can choose a membership tier that fits your lifestyle and provides everything you need for whole body health in one easy, affordable plan.
You and your eligible family members (18+) can get started with One Pass Select when you activate UnitedHealthcare Rewards. Plus, you can use your earnings to help pay for your One Pass Select membership.
To learn more about One Pass Select, please view the resources below and the attached member flyer.
- One Pass Select member engagement Brainshark and video.
- View Brainshark: One Pass Select Presentation
- Video: One Pass Select Video
- Flyer: One Pass Select Video
Birthdays are a time for joy, reflection, and gratitude, so let's take a moment to send our warmest wishes to our colleagues and friends.
π Let's celebrate the following birthdays:
- July 1: Umeka Wright, Grand Family Service Center
- July 3: Patience L. Baity, Grand Family Service Center
- July 5: Monica Agnew, Education Center
- July 5: Brianna Chandler, Ellen Ochoa STEM Academy
- July 12: Edgar Chavez Saldana, Education Center
π To all our July birthdays, may your special day be a reflection of the joy and positivity you bring to the lives of those you touch. Here's to celebrating you today and always! π
If you would like to be included in the birthday shoutouts, simply fill out the Staff Birthday Recognition/Shoutout form linked below. We look forward to celebrating each of you and making your special day even brighter!
Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken
Making this dish is really quite easy and perfect for summer months. They are great over salads, or served as a main dish with all sorts of sides. You canβt go wrong with grilled chicken!
Ingredients:
- 8 Boneless skinless chicken breasts, about 2 lbs.
Marinade:
- 2/3 bunch fresh cilantro
- zest of 1 lime
- 3 tablespoon lime juice, about 2 limes
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Garnishes:
- Cilantro leaves
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
Combine all the marinade ingredients to a blender or food processor and pulse until it forms a smooth mixture.
Add chicken breast to a large freezer-safe sealable bag, followed by the marinade. Press the air out of the bag and seal it tightly. Now gently press to the marinade around the chicken cutlets to coat well.
Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to overnight. Marinating overnight will enhance the juiciness and flavor of the chicken.
Next, brush the grill or a heavy-bottomed pan with some oil and heat over medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken breast onto the hot grill.
Grill without moving them around, about 5 minutes on each side, or until charred and cooked through.
Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges if desired.