Spring Into Your Community
EMS DIRECTORs CORNER
By Jake Mullery, Eagle Nest EMS Director, Contributing Writer
Wherever there is a human being there is an opportunity for kindness
Lucius Annaeus Seneca
Humans are social creatures that evolved in tight knit communities. Ironically, in our species’ technologically advanced state many individuals choose to self-isolate. This phenomenon existed before the COVID pandemic and was highlighted in an American Psychological Association publication in 2017: Advancing Social Connection as a Public Health Priority in the United States. “Humans need others to survive…[y]et, social connection is largely ignored as a health determinant because public and private stakeholders are not entirely sure how to act.” This statement, although relevant, places the burden of responsibility on larger entities that draft public health policy. The beauty of this conundrum is that small communities such as the Moreno Valley can take steps to create space for healthy social connections.
As the winter lifts and the first blades of grass push through the thawing soil we may begin to ask ourselves how we can help create or be a part of wholesome community events. In today’s world with all of the distractions and commitments that life seemingly forces upon us it becomes difficult to see outside one’s life. If entering a new space it may be best to start small and go with a friend! For example, a 2017 article published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine concluded that dance “can significantly improve muscular strength and endurance, balance, and other aspects of functional fitness in older adults”. This is great news, but have you ever gone to a dance class…alone? It can be intimidating, especially for those of us with two left feet! By taking this first step you are not only doing some good for yourself, but you also inspire your friend and the rest of the community to stick with their health goals. And this is not restricted to just dancing, but it could be a painting class, dog walking group, or a book club! Find what interests you, grab a friend, and join the community in something fun!
Speaking of something fun to do in April, the Village of Eagle Nest has two great events planned! The first is a blood drive scheduled for Monday April 17th from 12:00 PM until 4:00 PM. Please register online at Vitalant.org or by calling (877) 258-4825. The second event is a community CPR course set to take place on Monday April 24th and will begin at 11:00 AM. Please note that the CPR course is a free community event that does not provide the student with a certification. That said, what is more important than a certification is the knowledge that might one day save someone’s life! Both of these events will be held at the Village of Eagle Nest’s Community Center located at 151 Willow Creek Drive.
Believe it or not, you are a superhero! You can save a life by being ready to provide CPR, help someone in need of a transfusion by sharing your blood, or brighten another’s day by showing up to a community event!