Four egg-cellent tips for a happy, healthy Easter

This year, we asked Darren Ferleyko, director of Staff Wellness at the University of Calgary, to give us his top four tips for a restful holiday.

1. Stay active

It can be tough to find the time during such a short holiday, but even with the hustle and bustle of the long weekend it's important to get moving. Whether it’s hitting the gym or exploring the outdoors, just 30 minutes of exercise helps manage stress, boost energy and mood, and reduce anger, tension and fatigue.

Despite the snow on the ground, Ferleyko says there’s no better way to celebrate the warm weather than putting a spring in your step — literally. “Spending time outdoors helps improve mental health. Enjoy that fresh air and go for a walk with family or friends.”

2. All things in moderation

When tasty treats and sugary sweets are everywhere you look, it’s easy to get carried away on a chocolate-heavy diet. However, overindulgence in sweets can take a serious toll on your health. Remember to always balance your meals with nutritional food and plenty of water to keep your body healthy and happy.

3. Make time for yourself

For many, the Easter weekend includes a lot of family time. However, Ferleyko points out that for some, family fights can be as common as festivities. "Personality conflicts between family members are a major source of stress and anxiety," says Ferleyko. “Meals and family events may not always turn out perfectly. Make sure you take time for yourself to relax and unwind."

Ferleyko suggests treating yourself to much needed “me-time” with self-care activities like practising mindfulness techniques, sneaking some extra shut-eye, getting off the grid and unplugging from technology, or curling up with a book as good ways to relax and take care of mental health.

4. Avoid overscheduling

Although being social and connecting with those around us is an important part of overall wellness, spreading yourself too thin leads to increased stress and anxiety. “We have a tendency to take on too much during holidays and to commit to too many activities,” explains Ferleyko. “It’s ok to say no to attending events or preparing meals. Your needs are just as important as the needs of others.” Be honest with yourself about what’s reasonable over the long weekend, remember that it’s OK if everything isn’t ‘perfect,’ and learn to say no when you’re maxed out.

The University of Calgary’s Campus Mental Health Strategy is a bold commitment to the importance of mental health and well-being of our university family. Our vision is to be a community where we care for each other, learn and talk about mental health and well-being, receive support as needed, and individually and collectively realize our full potential.