Is burnout taking over? Here’s how to fight back

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Life can be overwhelming. Whether you're juggling work, family or personal goals, it’s easy to feel like you're running on empty. But burnout doesn’t have to be your destination. By focusing on your health and well-being, you can take proactive steps to keep your energy high, your mood balanced and your stress levels in check. 

 

1. Prioritize self-care 

Self-care is more than spa days. It’s about finding time to recharge. Whether it’s reading, taking a walk or meditating, make sure you carve out time for yourself every day. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is important when you prioritize self-care to practice being present in the moment. This will help with maintaining energy and mental clarity. 

 

2. Move your body 

Exercise is a natural stress reliever. You don’t need to go to the gym every day, but simple activities like stretching, yoga or walking can boost your mood and energy levels. Regular movement helps combat fatigue and enhances overall well-being. 

 

3. Get enough sleep 

Sleep is your secret weapon against burnout. Lack of rest can lead to irritability and lower productivity. Aim for 7-9 hours a night and create a calming bedtime routine to ensure restful sleep. 

 

4. Set boundaries 

Don’t hesitate to say no. Setting clear boundaries at work or with friends helps conserve your energy for what truly matters. Taking a step back to prioritize your health is more than okay. It’s necessary. According to the Mayo Clinic, learning to seek support, even if it starts with saying "no," is essential. Surrounding yourself with people who value and support you can make the difference in maintaining your well-being. 

 

5. Eat well and stay hydrated 

Fuel your body with nutritious foods and drink plenty of water. Balanced meals and proper hydration give you the energy you need to stay strong and focused throughout the day. 

 

Avoiding burnout is about balance. Prioritize your health, set boundaries, and make time for rest. By taking care of your physical, emotional and mental well-being, you’ll have the energy to face each day with a clear mind and a positive attitude. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first, and everything else will fall into place. 

 


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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Is burnout taking over? Here’s how to fight back

By focusing on your health and well-being, you can take proactive steps to keep your energy high, your mood balanced and your stress levels in check.

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Unseen symptoms of a hernia

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

When most people think of a hernia, they picture a visible lump or bulge in the abdomen. While this is a common sign, there are many unseen symptoms that can easily be overlooked until they lead to bigger problems. In this blog, we’ll shed light on these subtle signs that you shouldn’t ignore. 

1. Mild abdominal discomfort 

A hernia can cause a dull, persistent ache or pressure in the abdomen, especially after physical activity like lifting, bending or coughing. This discomfort might seem like regular stomach issues, but it could be a sign that something’s wrong. 

2. Feeling full or bloating 

If you feel unusually bloated or full even after eating small meals, a hernia could be the cause. The bulging tissue or intestine can put pressure on other organs, leading to discomfort and bloating. 

3. Acid reflux or heartburn 

As stated by the Mayo Clinic, some hernias, especially hiatal hernias, can cause heartburn or acid reflux. This happens when the hernia pushes against the stomach, interfering with digestion and causing that all-too-familiar burning sensation in the chest. 

4. Pain when straining 

If you experience sharp pain or discomfort when coughing, lifting or during bowel movements, your hernia might be the culprit. Straining puts added pressure on the area, making the hernia more noticeable. 

5. Nausea or vomiting 

According to Digestive Health Services, in severe cases, a hernia can cause nausea or vomiting, especially if part of the intestine becomes trapped. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical help immediately. 

If you're noticing any of these subtle symptoms, don’t wait. A hernia can worsen over time, so it’s important to get checked out by a doctor. Early treatment can prevent complications and keep you healthy. 

 

 


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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Unseen symptoms of hernia

There are many unseen symptoms of a hernia that can easily be overlooked until they lead to bigger problems.

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Morning vs. evening exercise

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Are you a morning person who hits the gym before the sun comes up? Or are you more of a “workout after work” kind of person? Both morning and evening workouts have their perks, but they also come with a few downsides. Let’s break it down to help you figure out which one fits your lifestyle.  

Morning exercise: The early bird gets the gains 

Benefits: 

  • Boosts your energy: Starting your day with a workout can leave you feeling energized and ready to conquer the world. According to Piedmont Healthcare, exercise gets your blood pumping, making you more alert and focused throughout the day. 

  • More consistency: When you exercise in the morning, it’s less likely that your workout will get derailed by work or social plans. You’ve already checked off your fitness goal.  

  • Improved mood: Morning exercise releases those feel-good endorphins early, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day. 

Negatives: 

  • Tough to wake up: If you're not a morning person, getting up for a 6 a.m. workout can feel like a battle. Plus, your body might feel stiff, making a morning workout less enjoyable. 

  • Lower strength: Your muscles may not be as awake and ready to work first thing, so you might not push yourself as hard in the morning. 

Evening exercise: end your day on a high note 

Benefits: 

  • More strength & performance: According to the Mayo Clinic, your body’s temperature is higher in the evening, which means your muscles are looser, and you can perform at your peak. This could mean better strength gains.  

  • Stress relief: A workout after a long day can help you de-stress and unwind, clearing your mind and releasing tension from the day. 

  • Flexibility: You have more time in the evening to experiment with different workouts, whether it’s yoga, weight training or a good old dance party in your living room. 

Negatives: 

  • Late-night energy boost: If you exercise too late, it can interfere with your sleep. Your body might still be too revved up, making it harder to fall asleep. 

  • Potential distractions: After a long workday, you may find it harder to stay motivated, or other evening plans might get in the way. 

Conclusion: what's the best time to work out? 

The best time to exercise is the one that fits your schedule and feels the best for your body. Whether you're an early bird or a night owl, as long as you move, you’re on the right track. So, get your sweat on whether it is morning, evening or whenever the mood strikes.  

 


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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Morning vs. evening exercise

Whether you're an early bird or a night owl, as long as you move, you’re on the right track.

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Planting seeds to retain better health

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

April showers bring May flowers, warmer temperatures and the beginning of the gardening season. Some of us may have a green thumb, and others may have a hard time keeping a succulent alive. Either way, gardening and tending to fresh produce plants may be the right activity for you.

Nutritional benefits 

We know it’s important to incorporate fruits and vegetables into our daily meals. Fresh produce that we can grow has many benefits. According to Franciscan Health, gardening can promote heart-healthy eating.

Since the food is not being transported or processed, you still retain all the nutritional benefits we don’t usually get from store-bought produce.

Physical benefits 

Gardening can be as intricate as you want it to be. No matter how big or small your garden is, the University of Texas in Austin says that gardening encourages a combination of aerobic exercise, strength training, flexibility, muscle strength, joint mobility and overall physical well-being.

Mental health benefits 

While eating healthy and exercising is important, we also need to make sure we are taking care of our mental health. Being “unplugged” from your phone while enjoying a hobby, like gardening, is a great way to practice self-care.

Gardening is a hobby that allows you to be outside and benefit from the result. According to UNC Health Talk, gardening can build self-esteem, reduce stress and make you happier.

Gardening is a great way to stay active in the spring while gaining the nutritional benefits of fresh produce. Embrace your inner green thumb and try it out for yourself this spring.

Find more wellness resources at genesishcs.org/wellness.

Planting Seeds to retain better health

Gardening and tending to fresh produce plants may be the right activity for you.

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One team makes a bigger difference

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Building homes. Serving lunches. Fostering relationships. Our generous community gives time and money to help others when they need a hand.

Genesis and our 4,400+ team members also want to help local nonprofit organizations make a bigger difference.

On any given day, our team members volunteer to help those in need.

 

Need a volunteer?

Nonprofit organizations that meet the requirements can contact Genesis, and we will share opportunities with our team.

 

Qualifying guidelines include:

  • Events that support Muskingum, Coshocton, Perry, Guernsey, Noble or Morgan counties.

  • Church events that benefit the entire community.

  • Submit your organization’s request at genesishcs.org/request-volunteers at least 30 days before your event. Requests are reviewed weekly.

 

Donation and sponsorship opportunities

In addition to volunteering our time and talents, we also support nonprofit organizations through sponsorships and donations.

Organizations that meet the following guidelines can apply for a donation or sponsorship.

  • Supports health and wellness in our community.

  • Supports Muskingum, Coshocton, Perry, Guernsey, Noble or Morgan counties.

  • Church events that benefit the entire community.

  • Submit your organization’s request at genesishcs.org/sponsorships at least 30 days before the deadline. Requests are reviewed weekly.

For more information, contact Genesis Community Relations at 740-454-5913, option 2.

 

Genesis Volunteers One Team

Genesis and our 4,400+ team members also want to help local nonprofit organizations make a bigger difference.

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Early detection is key to surviving prostate cancer

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Prostate cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the prostate. It is the most common nonskin cancer among men in the United States.

The earlier that prostate cancer is detected, the better your odds are of surviving it.

 

Prostate cancer 5-year survival rate:

Prostate Screening Stats

 

Screenings

  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test

  • Digital rectal exam

  • Supplemental PSA blood tests like prostate cancer antigen 3 (PCA3), prostate health index (PHI), 4Kscore

 

Risk factors

The recommended age for screening depends on risk factors, including:

  • Men ages 50 to 70 are more likely to develop prostate cancer

  • Family history of prostate cancer

  • African American men are at a higher risk to develop prostate cancer

 

Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and when you should consider getting screened.

Visit Genesishcs.org/Screenings for more information on cancer screenings.

 


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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Prostate Screening

The earlier that prostate cancer is detected, the better your odds are of surviving it.

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Do it for your heart

Kyle.Norton
Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

We hear many recommendations about keeping our hearts healthy. With a plan, small changes are easier than you think. Try these manageable tips to help you become your heart’s hero.

 

Check blood pressure

The American Heart Association (AHA) reports almost half of American adults have high blood pressure. A healthy reading for people over the age of 20 is less than 120/80. High blood pressure doesn’t always have warning symptoms, so check yours often.

 

Prioritize rest

Poor sleeping habits can contribute to high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. The AHA recommends 7 to 9 hours of sleep. Set a bedtime alarm to remind you when it’s time to wind down.

 

Stay relaxed

Breathing helps more than your lungs. Deep breathing can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. The AHA suggests a daily routine of “4-7-8 breathing.” Breathe in for four counts, hold for seven counts and breathe out slowly through your mouth for eight counts.

 

Learn your genetics

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends learning and sharing your family’s health history. This includes everyone from your parents and grandparents to nieces and nephews. Share details with your doctors so you can take action to reduce your chance of developing heart disease or other conditions.

 

Know the warning signs

While these suggestions are not substitutes for a well-balanced diet, ideal weight and plenty of exercise, you have the power to make a few heart-healthy changes now. In addition, take time to learn the warning signs of a heart attack to save your life or the life of someone you love. Call 911 immediately, even if you don’t think it’s a heart attack.

 

Heart attack symptoms:

  • Chest pain or discomfort

  • Arm or shoulder pain or discomfort

  • Pain in the jaw, neck or back

  • Shortness of breath

  • Feeling a cold sweat

  • Vomiting, feeling lightheaded or nauseous

 

 


Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Do it for your heart

Try these manageable tips to help you become your heart’s hero.

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Help your community: Hospice care for everyone

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

After 35 years and thousands of families served, the Morrison House, the region’s only dedicated inpatient hospice facility, needs to be replaced.

Anyone who has ever had a loved one at the Morrison House knows our program’s lasting impact on families during the most difficult times.

Numerous community members and businesses have already stepped forward to pledge their support. Your donation, small or large, will make a difference in the lives of our patients and families.

Together, your contributions will help build a new facility and ensure our nonprofit, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Five-Star Rated Hospice facility will continue to provide the critical care you’ve come to know and trust.

Your donation will create private patient rooms and bathrooms with beautiful garden views. Every patient’s room will accommodate families with desks and comfortable sleeping areas to help loved ones feel at ease.

We are immensely grateful to the J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation for its naming donation. We also thank the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity for donating the land.

If you would like more information or to contribute, please visit genesishcs.org/foundation or call 740-454-5052. Thank you for helping us support our community’s future.

 

Help your community: Hospice care for everyone

After 35 years and thousands of families served, the Morrison House, the region’s only dedicated inpatient hospice facility, needs to be replaced.

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A heart that beats for family and dogs

Dale Marlatt has spent over 53 years with his beloved wife, Joyce. They have raised two children and always had at least one dog, usually more, and a cat or two.

Being surrounded by family and pets (whom Dale considers family) is what makes him happy. They make his heartbeat with joy.

“As it became harder to breathe while doing everyday activities, I knew I had to do something,” Dale said. “Too many loved ones were counting on me.”

Dale requested advice from his doctor and was referred to Kinan Kassar, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Interventional and Structural Cardiologist, and Trevor Ellison, M.D., Ph.D., MBA, Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Medical Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute.

This was when Dale learned his aortic valve between the lower left heart chamber and the body’s main artery, called the aorta, had narrowed, leading to a condition called aortic stenosis. The disease reduces blood flow from the heart to the body.

Dale’s choice

After meeting with Dr. Kassar and Dr. Ellison, Dale knew he was in the right place. “They explained everything in detail,” said Dale. “They made me feel relaxed and confident in choosing Genesis for help, which was important as my life was on the line.”

Soon after, Dale was scheduled for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). It is a minimally invasive alternative to open heart surgery.

“We started performing TAVR at Genesis in 2019,” said Dr. Kassar. “As a minimally invasive procedure, it offers several benefits, including a much faster healing process.”

Replacing heart valves through a tube 

Dr. Kassar and Dr. Ellison performed the TAVR procedure by inserting a small tube called a catheter through the skin in his right groin and into the blood vessel.

They then maneuvered the artificial valve through Dale’s body until it reached the damaged valve. At that point, the valve expanded and replaced the damaged valve and returned blood flow to normal.

“TAVR was the easiest surgery I ever had,” said Dale.

“I felt 10 years younger as soon as I came out of surgery.”

Dale spent one night in the hospital before returning home to his wife, dogs and cats.

“The procedure changed everything in my life,” said Dale. “I am stronger and able to breathe much better.”

Kinan Kassar, M.D. LW Spring 25

Kinan Kassar, M.D.   
Fellowship-trained and Board-certified   
Interventional and Structural Cardiologist   
Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute


Trevor Ellison, M.D., PH.D., MBA LW Spring 25

Trevor Ellison, M.D., Ph.D., MBA  
Fellowship-trained and Board-certified  
Cardiothoracic Surgeon  
Medical Director of Cardiothoracic Surgery


 

Learning about aortic stenosis Aortic stenosis occurs when the aortic valve narrows, restricting blood flow from the left ventricle of the heart to the rest of the body. The condition tends to worsen over time. Some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms in the early stages.

Warning signs:

• Heart murmurs

• Chest pain or tightness with activity

• Feeling faint or dizzy or fainting with activity

• Shortness of breath, especially when active

• Fatigue, especially during activity

• Heart palpitation

Causes and risk factors:

Age: The risk increases, especially over 60, though symptoms may not appear until your 70s or 80s.

Impaired valve growth: The aortic valve opening may not grow at the same rate as the heart.

Congenital heart defects: Some people are born with an abnormal aortic valve, which can lead to stenosis over time.

Rheumatic fever: Having had rheumatic fever during childhood can lead to damage to the aortic valve, increasing the risk of stenosis later in life.

If you have questions, talk to your doctor.

 

Top 50 heart hospital

Genesis is one of America's Top 50 Heart Hospitals

For the 2nd year in a row, as rated by Fortune Magazine and PINC AI.

A heart that beats for family and dogs

“As it became harder to breathe while doing everyday activities, I knew I had to do something,” Dale said. “Too many loved ones were counting on me.”

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