Health Tips from Rotary District Leadership

Make change and make time for your health this fall.
Rotary Transcends Embracing Change - We are Change Makers!
The year 2020 has shown us that we are more resilient than we ever imagined - as individuals, teams, and Rotarians. Rather than shrinking from change, we have embraced it and made this Rotary year one for the record books:
  • We’ve adapted to virtual meetings - including the Rotary International Conference.
  • We’ve donned our masks - some Clubs have even ordered specialized Rotary masks for members who choose to wear them.
  • And really, we’ve done the same things we’ve always done...a little differently.
Through it all, we’ve gained a new appreciation for what it means when we do get to come together. As Rotarians, we know we are better together, even if we are physically apart. We take on challenges as a unit - none of us is an island. By embracing these challenges as a team, we can go about our work with a spirit of service and a renewed perspective. 

Change creates new opportunities. Innovation is born from adversity. Nothing worth doing well comes easy, and change is tough. But we’ve been through enough change this year to know that apathy is unacceptable. Change can be a really good thing - when we decide it to be.

September Health Awareness for Rotarians 

Amidst the hustle and bustle of fall, we must continue to be mindful about - and grateful for - our health. September is full of noteworthy health observances, and I’d like to highlight three to keep top-of-mind in our personal, professional, and Rotarian interactions:

  1. National Self-Care Awareness Month: Self-care is not a hippy ideal - it’s a necessity for staying mentally and physically well. Make time every day, even for 15 minutes, to do something good for yourself. That might be taking a walk, reading a good book, or playing cards with your partner. Self-care helps us stay grounded and refreshed. 
  2. Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: No one enjoys talking about scary and personal health issues. However, it’s important to be aware of your own or a loved one’s risk of this type of cancer, which is highly treatable if caught early. If you are at risk for prostate cancer, talk with a doctor about screening. Experiencing a little discomfort may save your life.
  3. Suicide Awareness Month: Depression and suicide go hand-in-hand, and both can happen to anyone of any gender, race, creed, or socioeconomic status. Keep an eye out for concerning behavior, which may include self-harm, thoughts or talk of hurting oneself, loss of interest in favorite pastimes, or giving away cherished items. Speak up if you are concerned. If you, a loved one, or fellow Rotarian need help, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Learn more at www.nami.org/Find-Support.

Prioritize health and wellness in your life to feel your best - and to show up as your best self for those around you. Rotary would be nothing without our members, and we must all do our part to advocate for our health and the health of our fellow club members.