Physical and nutritional well-being

Exercise is a fundamental pillar of a healthy lifestyle, offering many physical and mental benefits. From strengthening our muscles and bones to improving cardiovascular health, exercise enhances our overall well-being. Regular physical activity boosts our mood, reduces stress, and bolsters cognitive function. In an increasingly sedentary world, recognizing the vital role of exercise in promoting longevity and vitality is more crucial than ever. 

Explore reduced rates at the VIU gym.

Lifestyle Health Coaching: telephonic one-to-one coaching

When it comes to your health, how are you feeling?  Manulife’s Lifestyle Health Coaching service might be what you need to convert “not so good habits” into “healthy” ones. Working with a qualified professional Lifestyle Health Coach is like having a virtual trainer, nutritionist or health supporter completely dedicated to you. This program is available to all VIU employees with extended health care coverage. Contact the service by calling 1.855.584.4004 or emailing mycoach@manulife.ca. 

When dealing with specific medical conditions or diagnoses, reliable health resources offer essential information, support, and guidance. These resources include trusted websites, medical experts, support groups and community organizations, all aimed at helping individuals make informed decisions for better health. 

Women enter menopause in the prime of their lives, while they are making outsized contributions to their families, workplaces and society at large. Ending the silence, misinformation and stigma of menopause benefits us all. Explore resources to help you on your menopause health journey or share with family and friends.

What we eat profoundly impacts our health, energy levels, and overall well-being. A balanced diet provides essential nutrients that fuel our bodies, support growth, and help avoid chronic diseases. Beyond physical health, good nutrition also influences mental clarity, mood, and longevity. 

Sleep

Sleep is of paramount importance for physical well-being. It enables tissue repair, muscle growth, and immune system support, while regulating metabolism and cardiovascular health. Additionally, it enhances cognitive function and emotional well-being. Chronic sleep deprivation, on the other hand, poses multiple health risks. Prioritizing sufficient, consistent sleep of 7-9 hours per night is crucial for maintaining overall health and vitality.

Office ergonomics

OfficeErgo is an evidence-based and standard-compliant, free online training program on the proper way to set up and work at office workstations in order to prevent musculoskeletal disorders and other injuries. By the end of the program, you will be able to:

• discuss the risks associated with computer work
• explain the importance of varying your work posture
• determine the key factors in maximizing your “comfort zone”
• evaluate your office work environment
• apply ergonomics strategies to the arrangement of your work environment
• explain the importance of healthy computing habits, including rest breaks

MoveSafe Home Office Worker Guide. Everything you need to know about preparing and maintaining the body, including movement in the workday, preparing your work area, adapting available home furnishings to establish an ergonomic home office and learning how to sit properly, hold a mouse properly, text without neck strain, and more.