5 Takeaways from Dr. Sanders
Dr. Christine Sanders
In partnership with Hutch Rec and HEAL Reno County, we relaunched our Walk with a Doc program on Saturday, June 13. Walk with a Doc events will take place the second Saturday of each month.
I had the pleasure of hosting the June 13 walk. It was a fun opportunity to spend time with Hutchinson community members, talking about what’s top of mind for them while getting a little exercise. To no surprise, quarantine fatigue was a prevalent topic of discussion. The past few months have been difficult for all of us, but with the simple act of being able to walk outside together, we all felt a sense of relief – and normalcy.
As we enter the summer months, there is uncertainty about social expectations, proper safety measures and the upcoming school year. We talked about how we should approach living in this “new normal” and here are a few topics that stuck with me that I’d like to share with you:
Wear a mask when appropriate: It can be hard to know when or where to wear your mask. Just remember that masks are recommended if you are in a healthcare facility, are at-risk or know you will be around at-risk individuals, or if you are going to a place where social distancing is not possible.
Continue following reopening guidelines: Rule of thumb, if you want to know if you should attend an event or go to certain public settings, it is important to make sure you are following the reopening guidelines for group size, sanitization, masks and other safety measures.
Make walking part of your day: Not only does walking provide many physical health benefits, being active and absorbing vitamin D are huge factors for improved physical and mental health – which is especially important in a time like today.
If you travel, do it safely: Road trips are a much easier way to control your environment compared to flying. Either way, make sure to carry travel hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes, remember to pack and wear a mask while around others, and follow the guidelines outlined by your destination city, hotel and airline.
Focus on the “now”: Stress and anxiety are common feelings when thinking about the uncertainty of the future. Try to stay in the present and appreciate the now, which will usher in the future in a healthy way.
During this time, it is more important than ever to stay physically and mentally healthy.
At Hutchinson Clinic, we’re putting your health first, so you can, too. We look forward to seeing even more of you at the July 11th Walk with a Doc.
For more information on scheduling an in-person or virtual visit, please call us at 620-669-2500.