MUSCATINE, Iowa–As Muscatine County residents look to start the year off right, the Muscatine County Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Office hopes to help through their upcoming “What About Me? My Wellbeing” workshop series. Through four weekly sessions held each Thursday in February, participants can learn concrete steps that will help them take care of themselves so they can better take care of others.
Because the COVID-19 pandemic has made the last two years particularly challenging, especially for parents, County Director Heidi Hoffman considers now an especially good time for people to find ways to take care of their own needs. “For two years individuals have been impacted in various ways by the pandemic,” she observed. “Now is the time to bring adults together for some self-care support, to think about their own wellbeing!”
Beyond looking at wellbeing basics, such as eating well, the Extension Office’s wellbeing series will explore practices individuals can implement to lead happier and less stressful lives. These will include techniques to improve social and emotional health, get more physical activity, and implement financial planning strategies that can help people achieve their goals.
With the new year giving people a chance to reflect on things they would like to do differently, Hoffman considers it a perfect time for anyone to learn ways they can promote their own wellbeing. “It is never too late to spend some time focusing on you and to enhance your wellbeing and quality of life in ways that are personally meaningful to you,” she emphasized. “You will learn strategies for taking time for yourself, building relationships, and improving physical and financial health.”
Each of the four 45 minute sessions will take place each Thursday in February at the Extension Office (at 1601 Plaza Place in Muscatine) around the lunch hour. A free course, any adult in Muscatine County may register to participate. If you would like to reserve a spot for yourself, you may do so by calling the Extension Office at 563-263-5701.
As 2022 gets started, Hoffman anticipates offering many ways for the Extension Office to support the community, including through the wellbeing workshop series. “We are looking forward to engaging with individuals who want to journey with us in the new year to personal wellness!”
