AAMC Magazine

Fall 2009

Be Well, Be Present

Relax and renew with AAMC Community Health and Wellness

The gift-giving season is fast approaching and, with it, the stress and hassle of shopping and traffic. Enjoy – and practice – these stressreducing tips from the AAMC Community Health and Wellness Department and Sharon Cameron, Reiki master and Reiki teacher.

Stay focused with daily affirmations. This is an easy way to stay focused on the positive events throughout the day. There are many books and Web sites that can help you keep engaged in positive thoughts. “I have a good and happy life,” “I will give my best throughout the entire day,” or “I will find the humor in all situations today” are examples of affirmations.

Find a new and fun hobby. Discovering a new hobby can be a great way to relax. Laugh! Laughter is the best medicine. It can release tension, anxiety, fear and guilt. It also releases endorphins, which increase happy thoughts and good feelings throughout the body.

Exercise. It’s a great way to keep your mental health in check. Break up your exercise time if you can’t complete a workout in one setting. Park your car farther away from the store, walk to get your mail, use the stairs instead of the elevator. All of these movements will add up quickly to give you the recommended 30 minutes of activity a day for adults.

Remember to eat. Many times we forget to fuel ourselves when we become overscheduled. Snack throughout the day and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Meditate. You will quickly discover that meditation will help you complete your chores with a more peaceful mind. Start by sitting quietly for two minutes each day and gradually increase your meditation time. Focus on your breath and allow your mind to unwind.

Experiment with random acts of kindness. As Aesop so famously said, “No act of kindness is ever wasted.” Hold a door open, smile at a stranger or buy a cup of tea for the person behind you in line.

Give yourself a gift. Treat yourself to one of AAMC’s Healing Art Services, which include Reiki, Massage and Healing Touch.

Whether you’re seeking a registered dietitian to keep your weight loss goals on track, looking to start a new fitness class or seeking peace and comfort with AAMC’s Healing Arts, we are here to help. Stop by the Sajak Pavilion, Suite 250 or call 443-481-5360 to schedule your next appointment.