The Health Links® Webinar Recovery Friendly Workplaces highlights the importance of supporting individuals in recovery from addiction within the workplace hosted with the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus for students, employers, employees, and the general public, including parents and families.
The concept of a Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) encourages understanding the supportive environment for recovery from addiction. I learn to respect different experiences to evaluate the future of a specific work structure, leading with empathy and compassion. Solutions to recurrence of negative addictive behaviors is to offer information to support recovery with website and email and evaluate a recovery program to work with individual needs. With evaluation of recovery status for a specific work structure, one option is to offer to maintain the work structure or to change the work structure to meet needs.
RFW Benefits and Challenges
Challenge of Love
learning fusion energies with God love energies with sunlight
The sunlight fire speeds love gasses all over the universe
with the loving heart energies of life
Love, affection and appreciation
for empathy and joy for successful learning
where love is leading
healing death oils of earth
humanist groups
healing God humanist groups
love leads the way 8/24/2024
Challenge of Love
How mountain energies
flow into Florida
pin ball machine
with God sunlight energies
of people, animals and
plants
Love, affection and
appreciation for harmony
with empathy and joy of
successful learning where
love is leading
concern for tunnel vision
stuck in the labyrinthine pin
ball
negativity
positivity
possibilities of love 8/27/2024
Challenge of Love
with Health Links webinar 1 pm EST 8/29/2024
with people with chronic health conditions in recovery from addictive behaviors
I learn the importance of balance with sleep, nutrition and physical activity
with concern for how to heal dishonesty
with speech
with Microsoft
AI services about human
integration into narrator
voice
to practice
conversation skills with safe
and healthy factors of a
Recovery Friendly
Workplace.
I feel concern for negativity
of human voice narrator
energies
disrupting the
positivity of written text.
The computer emits gasses
with negative human voice
energies
while also
communicating with
positive written text
energies
and one time
admitted human voice
energies are happening
and then denied this fact.
The written text is overall
positive and the voice tone
is only a narrator voice
trying to disrupt the
positivity of the written text
with the parts of the written
text with negativity.
Where there is smoke there
is fire.
Therefore any
negative human voice
energies is a cause of
concern
and could be a
potential hazard and needs careful evaluation with hierarchy of controls to eliminate, substitute, barrier, change work habits and provide PPE. 8/28/2924
Challenge of Love
with yin yang energies
with human voice energies
with computers
Love, affection and
appreciation for empathy
and joy for successful
learning
where love is
leading
concern for negative tunnel
vision
moles are only one species
of animals
where there is smoke there
is fire and therefore
important to learn safe and
healthy hierarchy of
controls to the potential
hazard of negative tunnel
vision human voice
energies with
computers
This stuck point is a sign of PTSD symptoms and everyone may learn evidence-based practices with health science support to heal PTSD symptoms.
I learn the importance of the Respect Bookends technique to heal PTSD symptoms:
I respect people, animals, plants, God and all the energies of life.
Even though I wish to heal stuck points of negativity with the Respect Bookends technique, I wish to respect you are different from me. Thank you for the learning opportunity to try to give you respect. 8/29/2024
https://sl.bing.net/dTkVkxSS6o0
**The Intersection of Mental Health Literacy and Recovery-Friendly Workplaces: An Integrative Approach**
In the ever-evolving landscape of workplace wellness, two critical components are gaining traction for their profound impact on both individuals and organizations: Mental Health Literacy (MHL) and Recovery-Friendly Workplaces (RFWs). The integration of these strategies not only fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment but also contributes to the overall health and productivity of the workforce.
**Mental Health Literacy: The Foundation of Understanding and Empathy**
MHL is pivotal in creating an atmosphere where mental health is important to employee well-being. With educating students and staff about mental health, organizations may dismantle the stigma to help those in need. Personal stories of triumph over mental health challenges serve as powerful testaments to the resilience of the human spirit, encouraging others to seek assistance and develop effective coping strategies.
**Benefits of a Recovery-Friendly Workplace**
1. **Expanded Labor Force**: RFWs play an important role in integrating individuals in recovery back into the workforce, thereby expanding the labor pool.
2. **Increased Worker Well-being**: Employees in recovery often report enhanced well-being and a decrease in substance misuse.
3. **Decreased Turnover**: RFWs experience lower turnover rates, as employees in recovery value supportive work environments.
4. **Improved Productivity**: There is a general trend of higher productivity and engagement among employees in recovery.
5. **Reduced Healthcare Costs**: Employers benefit from reduced healthcare costs due to lower healthcare utilization involving costs with employees in recovery.
6. **Positive Work Culture**: A supportive environment is instrumental in boosting morale and job satisfaction across the board.
**Challenges to Overcome**
Despite the clear advantages, several challenges persist:
1. **Employer Buy-in**: Convincing employers to adopt and sustain RFW practices may be daunting.
2. **Funding**: Allocating the necessary resources and funding for RFW initiatives is often challenging.
3. **Stigma**: The stigma surrounding substance use disorders is a significant barrier to recovery.
4. **Workplace Hazards**: Managing substance use and recovery requires careful evaluation.
5. **Mental Health Support**: Addressing broader mental health concerns necessitates integrative strategies.
**A Call to Action in Colorado**
The state of Colorado, under the Governor's Proclamation, has taken a proactive stance by engaging with the University of Colorado's Total Worker Health framework.
Implementing Mindfulness Practices in Recovery Friendly Workplaces
Mindfulness has emerged as a powerful tool in promoting mental health and well-being in various settings, including Recovery Friendly Workplaces (RFW). These workplaces are designed to support individuals recovering from substance use disorders with creating an environment to emphasize understanding, wellness, and holistic recovery. Integrating mindfulness practices into the daily routine of such workplaces may be beneficial for both employees and employers.
Here are some steps to incorporate mindfulness practices into a Recovery Friendly Workplace:
1. **Start with Education**: Begin by educating the staff about the benefits of mindfulness for mental health and recovery. This may be done through workshops, seminars, or even simple informational sessions. Understanding the connection between mindfulness and recovery is crucial for fostering an environment to value these practices.
2. **Mindful Walking**: Organize regular mindful walking sessions. This involves walking in a relaxed manner, focusing on the experience of walking, and being fully present. This simple exercise may be done individually or in groups, and may help to connect the body and mind.
79 pulse rate before exercise, 77 with 1 30 minutes paced walk,
83/76 with https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=heartratemonitor.heartrate.pulse.pulseapp&pcampaignid=web_share
60/74 with https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=heartratemonitor.heartrate.pulse.pulseapp&pcampaignid=web_share 8/23/2024
77 pulse rate before exercise, 83/81 with 2 30 minutes paced walks
75/87/82 with https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=heartratemonitor.heartrate.pulse.pulseapp&pcampaignid=web_share
74/80/86 with https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=heartratemonitor.heartrate.pulse.pulseapp&pcampaignid=web_share 8/26/2024
72 pulse rate before exercise, 71 with 1 30 minutes paced walk,
77/76 with https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=heartratemonitor.heartrate.pulse.pulseapp&pcampaignid=web_share
72/69 with https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=heartratemonitor.heartrate.pulse.pulseapp&pcampaignid=web_share 8/28/2024
73 pulse rate before exercise, 72 with 1 30 minutes paced walk,
72/76 with https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=heartratemonitor.heartrate.pulse.pulseapp&pcampaignid=web_share
69/71 with https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=heartratemonitor.heartrate.pulse.pulseapp&pcampaignid=web_share 8/29/2024
3. **Body Awareness Techniques**: Introduce body awareness exercises and may be done at the desk or in a quiet space. These may include mindful breathing or gentle stretching to bring attention to bodily sensations and promote relaxation.
4. **Create a Mindful Space**: Dedicate a quiet room or area where employees may go to practice mindfulness or simply take a moment to breathe and refocus. This space needs to be accessible to all employees throughout the workday.
5. **Mindfulness Training for Leaders**: Provide mindfulness training for managers and team leaders. They play a key role in setting the tone for the workplace culture and may influence the adoption of mindfulness practices within their teams.
6. **Encourage Personal Practice**: While group practices are beneficial, personal mindfulness practice is important. Encourage employees to develop their own mindfulness routine to practice at home or during breaks.
7. **Support and Resources**: Offer resources such as books, apps, or online courses on mindfulness to employees. This may help them explore mindfulness and find best practices for them.
8. **Regular Check-ins**: Have regular check-ins with employees to discuss their experiences with mindfulness practices. This may help in understanding their challenges and successes, and in making necessary adjustments to the mindfulness program.
9. **Incorporate Mindfulness into Policies**: Reflect the commitment to mindfulness in the company's policies and values. This shows the organization is serious about supporting employees' mental health and well-being.
With implementing these mindfulness practices, Recovery Friendly Workplaces may enhance the recovery process and overall well-being of their employees. This is a journey of commitment and patience, but the benefits for the individual and the organization are profound and far-reaching. For more detailed guidance and resources on mindfulness exercises and activities, exploring integrative treatment plans and worksheets may provide valuable insights and tools for facilitation.
RFW learning opportunities
Challenge of Love
with learning creative
friendship skills
Love, affection and
appreciation for empathy
and joy for successful
learning
concern for social pressure
to support negative
addictive behavior
health and school
community support of
healthy learning
with
creative flow and positive
mindset with friendship
skills successful learning
is
important to heal negative
mindsets about the future of the present
moment 8/21/2024
Challenge of Love
Learning with computers
how to love people
AI energies connect us
Love, affection and
appreciation for empathy
and joy for successful
learning
Challenge of God reality
Gasses of the mind shifting
energies towards the
negative instead of positive
Gasses of the mind shifting
energies towards the
positive
The logic of the universe
suggests the powers of
positive are stronger than
the negative because of the constancy of the speed of light and
the unity of being creating
positive energies are
needed for negative
energies to exist. 8/22/2024
Challenge of Love
with Recovery Friendly
Workplaces
with people
getting needs met
Love, affection and
appreciation for empathy
and joy of successful
learning
where love is
leading
concern for needs are too
difficult to get met for
everyone
fusion physics may heal
fission physics 8/23/2024
RFW Question
Challenge of Recovery Friendly Workplaces
Is meeting needs
With the world of love
with the challenges of the law of entropy
Love, affection and appreciation
for empathy and joy of successful learning
where love is leading
To meet needs
How may I be of help?
Smart Snacking for Recovery Friendly Workplaces
Creating a Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) is about policies and programs to foster an environment to support the well-being of all employees. One aspect of this supportive environment is the availability of smart snack options to boost mood, increase energy, and promote overall health. Here are some ideas for smart snacks to align with the principles of a Recovery Friendly Workplace:
1. **Nutrient-Dense Nibbles**: Opt for snacks high in nutrients and low in processed sugars. Think of whole fruits, nuts, and seeds to provide essential vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. These snacks may help stabilize blood sugar levels and maintain energy throughout the day.
2. **Hydration Stations**: Encourage hydration with setting up water stations with options for natural flavorings of cucumber, lemon, or mint. Staying hydrated is crucial for cognitive function and overall health.
3. **Protein-Packed Picks**: Include options of Greek yogurt and hard-boiled eggs. Protein may help curb hunger and sustain energy, important for those in recovery who may need more stable energy levels throughout the day.
4. **Complex Carbohydrates**: Oatmeal cups, whole-grain crackers, or air-popped popcorn. Complex carbs provide a steady release of energy, unlike the quick spike and crash from more refined snacks.
5. **Vegetable Variety**: Have a range of vegetables available with hummus or yogurt dips. Vegetables are nutritious and also provide the crunch and satisfaction many people look for in a snack.
6. **Sweet Treats**: For those with a desire for sweet treats, provide healthier alternatives with dark chocolate, fruit bars, or natural fruit popsicles. These may satisfy cravings without the negative effects of high-sugar snacks.
7. **Herbal Teas and Coffee Alternatives**: Offer a selection of herbal teas and coffee alternatives of chicory root or caffeine-free rooibos. These may provide a comforting warm beverage without the potential anxiety-inducing effects of caffeine.
8. **Mindful Munching**: Encourage mindful eating practices with providing a pleasant space for snacking and eating. This may help employees be more present with their food and enjoy more fully, beneficial for mental health.
With offering these smart snack options, employers may contribute to a supportive and health-conscious workplace to align with the values of a Recovery Friendly Workplace and a simple yet effective way to show care for employees' well-being and to support those on their recovery journey.
Physical Activity Ideas for a Recovery Friendly Workplace Event
Incorporating physical activity into workplace events may be a way to energize participants, foster teamwork, and promote overall well-being. With the "Recovery Friendly Workplaces" webinar, offering opportunities for movement may enhance the experience. Here are some ideas for integrating physical activity before, during, and after the webinar:
**Before the Event:**
1. **Walk-and-Talk Meetups**: Encourage attendees to meet up for a walk-and-talk session. This may be done virtually, where participants take a walk outside while connected through a call, or in person if possible. You are welcome to call me at (772) 643-6170 to set up a walk-and-talk session.
69 pulse rate before exercise, 76/74 after 2 30 minutes paced walks
72 pulse rate before exercise, 73/69 after 2 30 minutes paced walks
2. **Pre-Webinar Yoga**: Offer a yoga class focused on relaxation and mindfulness to help participants center themselves and clear their minds before the webinar begins.
Waterfall pose yoga connecting with water of the Sebastian River with sunlight
Child pose relaxing, feeling, connecting
Change pose with sunlight shining with cloud rising
Remember pose with plant energies with home planet 8/29/2024
**During the Event:**
1. **Active Breaks**: Integrate short, active breaks during the webinar where attendees are encouraged to stand up, stretch, or even do some light exercises of chair squats or arm circles, seated leg lifts or desk push-ups to keep the energy up.
3. **Mindful Breathing**: Incorporate mindful breathing exercises to help attendees stay focused and relaxed during the webinar. This may also aid in reducing stress and maintaining a calm demeanor.
**After the Event:**
1. **Post-Webinar Walk**: Suggest participants take an evaluative walk after the webinar to process the information they have learned and think about how they may apply ideas in their workplace.
2. **Team Challenges**: Set up a step or activity challenge for the days following the webinar. Use apps or devices to track progress and encourage a friendly competition among attendees.
3. **Follow-Up Fitness Class**: Organize a follow-up fitness class, such as a dance workout or a Pilates session, to keep the momentum going and continue promoting the importance of physical well-being in the workplace.
These activities may promote health and wellness and also align with the principles of supporting recovery in the workplace with emphasizing the importance of taking care of one's physical health as part of overall well-being.
Managing Chronic Health Conditions During Family Events
Family events may be a source of joy and togetherness, yet they may also present unique challenges for those managing chronic health conditions. When planning and participating in events such as the Recovery Friendly Workplaces webinar, I learn to evaluate the needs of family members with chronic illnesses to ensure their comfort and well-being. Here are some strategies to help manage chronic health conditions during family events:
1. **Open Communication**: Encourage open dialogue about the specific needs and limitations that come with chronic conditions. This may help in planning activities that are inclusive and considerate of everyone's health requirements.
2. **Flexible Planning**: Be prepared to adapt plans as needed. Those with chronic conditions may experience fluctuating symptoms. A flexible agenda allows for necessary adjustments without added stress.
3. **Accessibility Considerations**: Ensure the event location is accessible for all family members. This includes easy access to seating, restrooms, and quiet areas for rest if needed.
4. **Health Friendly Menu**: Offer a variety of food options to cater to different dietary restrictions and preferences. This supports those with chronic conditions and also promotes healthier choices for all attendees.
5. **Activity Balance**: Balance sedentary activities with light physical movement. For example, after a webinar session, suggest a gentle group walk or a few minutes of stretching to keep everyone active and engaged.
6. **Rest Periods**: Schedule breaks throughout the event to allow family members to rest and manage their energy levels. This is especially important for those who may tire easily due to their health condition.
7. **Support Network**: Create a supportive environment where family members feel comfortable seeking help or discussing their needs. Knowing they have a support system may alleviate the anxiety of managing a chronic condition during an event.
8. **Emergency Preparedness**: Have a plan in place for any potential health emergencies. This includes having a list of emergency contacts, knowledge of the nearest medical facilities, and access to necessary medications.
9. **Mindfulness Activities**: Incorporate mindfulness or relaxation techniques into the event schedule. Guided meditation may help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm for all participants.
10. **Post-Event Check-In**: After the event, check in with family members to discuss what worked well and what could be improved for future gatherings. This feedback may be valuable for planning more inclusive events moving forward.
With implementing these strategies, families may create a welcoming and accommodating environment for all members, especially those managing chronic health conditions and fostering a sense of inclusion and understanding everyone's health journey is unique and deserves respect and consideration for joy and comfort for everyone involved.
Promoting Mental Health Learning in Workplace Events
Mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being. Here are resources on mental health, including brochures, guides, and links to online materials. I wish to encourage open discussions about mental health, where employees may share experiences and support each other. This may help destigmatize mental health issues and encourage individuals to seek help when needed. I encourage a wellness challenge to encourage healthy habits, such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and balanced nutrition. These challenges may be fun and engaging while promoting mental health awareness.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has provided a valuable guide for schools to promote mental health to support your strategy to create a nurturing environment conducive to both emotional and academic growth with your webinar.
The CDC's action guide outlines six key strategies proven to support students' mental health and well-being. These include increasing mental health literacy, promoting mindfulness, enhancing social, emotional, and behavioral learning, fostering connectedness, providing psychosocial skills training, and supporting staff well-being. With implementing these strategies, we may build on existing efforts and introduce new practices to fill any gaps in our approach to student mental health.
Moreover, the digital landscape presents unique challenges and opportunities and is important we establish healthy boundaries for social media use among our students. A family plan delineating these boundaries may be important in mitigating the negative impacts of excessive screen time, thus promoting a balanced lifestyle.
The collective effort of school staff, parents, and the community may foster an atmosphere of open communication, active listening, and understanding. This collaborative approach may empower parents to safe and healthy interactions with children, reinforcing a sense of security and belonging important for mental wellness.
Through the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS), the CDC gathers important data on various aspects of adolescent health, including mental health and substance use. This surveillance is a collection of statistics and a beacon guiding the development of interventions to bolster the health and safety of young populations.
The latest CDC Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) Data Summary & Trends Report is a testament to the CDC's commitment to this cause with concern for adolescents' sexual behavior, substance use, experiences of violence, mental health, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors and social media use.
Resources
I have organized resources into 3 levels of multi-tiered support: the general level of everyone with updated blog posts, the small group level with Twitter / X and the individual level with email.
Resources with Chakra Energies
Health
Nature
Art
People
Music
Problem Solving
God
Resources with Third Chakra Energies
Art expressing personal strength, encouraging friendly recovery, art meditation and communication sessions about challenges and strengths
Art Session: Empowering Recovery through Art
Art has long been recognized as a powerful medium for healing and self-expression to transcend language barriers and allow individuals to explore and communicate complex emotions and experiences. This is true in the context of recovery, where art may be a therapeutic tool for personal growth and empowerment.
### 1. Introduction to the Healing Power of Art
The session begins with a warm welcome, setting a tone of inclusivity and support. The overview outlines the session's goals: to use art as a means to express personal strength, foster a supportive community, and promote open communication. This introduction is important to prepare participants for a journey of self-discovery and mutual support.
### 2. Exploring Personal Strength through Art
Participants are invited to create art to evaluate their personal strength and resilience, drawing inspiration from the third chakra's symbolism. The use of yellow and the solar plexus symbol serves as a guide for participants to delve into their inner power. This activity encourages self evaluation and also allows for a creative exploration of one's capabilities and endurance.
### 3. Sharing Stories and Inspirations
Sharing one's artwork and the stories behind them is a profound experience to inspire and connect individuals with supporting the organization of a space where vulnerability is met with empathy, where personal journeys are acknowledged and celebrated. This sharing is a testament to the strength and courage of each participant, providing motivation and a sense of community.
### 4. Art Meditation for Recovery
A guided meditation focused on the third chakra may be a transformative experience, enabling participants to visualize and embody confidence and personal power. Following this meditation with art creation offers a unique opportunity to materialize these feelings, creating a tangible representation of the inner strength supported during the meditation.
### 5. Open Communication about Challenges and Strengths
An open forum for discussing individual challenges and strengths is integral to the recovery process and allows for a shared understanding and provides a platform for collective healing. Facilitating such a session requires sensitivity and a commitment to creating a safe space for all voices to be heard.
### 6. Storytelling and Connection through Art
Encouraging participants to use art to narrate their recovery stories is a powerful means of communication and may bridge gaps between people, offering insights into the diverse paths of recovery others may be walking. This storytelling through art is about sharing and connecting on a deep human level.
### 7. Evaluation of the Artistic Journey
Concluding the session with evaluation allows participants to internalize their experiences and the insights gained with a moment to acknowledge the emotional and creative journey embarked on and to recognize the progress made.
### 8. Encouragement for Continued Growth
Encouragement to continue with art as a space for healing and personal development and affirmation of the value of art in creating a recovery-friendly environment to support growth, understanding, and empowerment.
This art session is a series of activities and a holistic approach to recovery to integrate art, meditation, and communication, a celebration of the human spirit's resilience and a reminder of the transformative power of art in the journey towards healing and empowerment.
Addressing Disruption in the Workplace: An Integrative Approach
In today's fast-paced work environment, disruptions may come from various sources, including technological advancements, communication breakdowns, or even the integration of new tools. To address these disruptions I learn to adopt an integrative approach with technology, communication, and employee well-being.
Exploring the Fifth Chakra: A Journey Through Sound, Recovery, and Expression
The Fifth Chakra, also known as the Throat Chakra or Vishuddha, is a vortex of energy situated in the throat area. It is the embodiment of communication, self-expression, and truth. When balanced, fifth chakra empowers individuals to express their authentic selves and communicate their truths with clarity and confidence.
In the quest for personal strength and recovery, the Fifth Chakra plays an important role to bridge thought and emotion, the physical and the spiritual. Engaging with resources to resonate with the energies of the Fifth Chakra may facilitate a harmonious balance, fostering an environment conducive to healing and growth.
Communication sessions focused on discussing challenges and strengths may also be instrumental in harnessing the Fifth Chakra's energies. Such sessions provide a safe space for individuals to vocalize their experiences, share their journeys, and learn from one another. With engaging in open and honest dialogue, participants may strengthen their communicative abilities and foster a sense of community and support.
Incorporating resources to align with the Fifth Chakra's energies into one's daily routine may encourage individuals to find their voice, speak their truth, and move forward with confidence and grace.
As we navigate the complexities of life, the Fifth Chakra serves as a reminder of the power of our voice and the importance of communication. By engaging with resources that nurture this energy center, we can unlock our potential for personal strength, recovery, and authentic expression. Let us embrace the journey and discover the harmony within.
Navigating the Challenges of Dishonesty: Strategies for Effective Communication and Resolution
Dishonesty, whether in personal relationships or professional environments may be a significant barrier to trust and effective communication and may lead to conflicts, misunderstandings, and a breakdown in relationships. However, there are strategies to employ to address dishonesty and work towards a resolution.
Open communication is another key strategy. Creating an environment where individuals feel safe to express their thoughts and feelings may encourage honesty. I learn to communicate clear expectations to prevent misunderstandings and foster transparency.
Building trust is a long-term strategy to help mitigate dishonesty. Trustworthiness may be fostered with being fair in interactions with others.
