Like every organization, Blue Zones Project has had to pivot and search out new ways to connect with individuals and organizations during this time of social distancing and working and learning remotely. Because of the physical and mental impact of COVID-19, practicing the primary tenets of a Blue Zones lifestyle – healthier eating, increased activity, and stronger social connections – has become even more important to our well-being. Fortunately, many Blue Zones engagement programs have proven to work well in online formats and allowed Blue Zones Project to increase the content and frequency of virtual offerings for partner businesses and the community.
Blue Zones Project’s popular Purpose Workshops were the first to go online. Since May, more than 500 participants have virtually learned to rediscover their sense of purpose and put their talents and gifts to better use. Virtual Purpose Workshops are now offered free to the public once a month. Blue Zones Project approved organizations can also schedule private Purpose Workshops for their own team members, subject to facilitator availability and minimum number of participants.
As a result of this online success, additional virtual programs have been developed. The new Lunch & Learn Series offers such topics as Living a Plant-Based Lifestyle, Lunchbox Toolbox Healthy Eating Tips, and Mindfulness in the Workplace. These 1-hour presentations are available to Blue Zones Project partner organizations and area businesses upon request (minimum of 25 participants required). Later this year, offerings will expand even more with online Mental Health First Aid training, which teaches the skills needed to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance abuse challenges and crises.
In addition to the virtual Purpose Workshops, Blue Zones Project also offers the public a free monthly Live Well Series, covering everything from mindful eating to how to promote well-being to children. A new Live Well Podcast is being added to the mix and will roll out via social media channels later in October. And a “10 at 10” series on the Blue Zones Project Facebook page continues at 10 a.m. every Monday through Friday providing 10 minutes of live yoga moves, cooking demos, community engagement, and breathing techniques. Tune in for in for 10 minutes of fun and easy stress relief, whether you’re back in the office or still working from home.
A listing of upcoming virtual and public programs can be found on the Blue Zones Project Fort Worth Facebook page. For more information about virtual Lunch & Learn options and to inquire about a program for your business or organization, contact BlueZonesProject@texashealth.org.