Wellness day helps members safeguard their wellbeing in a world turned upside down by COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic may have thrown Albertans and health care workers into incredibly strange and stressful times, but UNA members are finding ways to safeguard their mental, physical and spiritual health in a world turned upside down.

On January 29, more than 600 UNA members took part in a live wellness event on Zoom that aimed to lower stress levels and help nurses adapt to the constant rapid change that’s leaving many feeling burned out.

Organized by UNA’s Membership Committee, the daylong event included speakers, health and diet information, relaxation skills, and hints on coping with an ever-changing workplace. There were also welcoming remarks by UNA President Heather Smith and Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions President Linda Silas, and, for those who wished to participate, yoga.

“UNA members have endured exceptionally difficult circumstances and have risen to the challenges of the pandemic, often at the expense of their own personal wellbeing,” said Second Vice-President Cameron Westhead. “I’m grateful to the UNA Executive Board for identifying the resulting need for a wellness event and to the Membership Committee for putting together an uplifting, inspiring and energizing event focused on caring for the caregivers and giving them more tools in their self-care toolbox.”

Speakers included Barb Campbell, UNA member and addictions/recovery coach, RN Barb Bancroft, acclaimed national speaker on diet issues, and Kim Hyshka, who brings people together to create positive change.

Wellness Day video now available for UNA members

UNA members can watch the video recording of the Wellness Day event and discuss wellness issues with other nurses in UNA Forums. Members will need to create a UNAnet account in order to access the video and chat.