FREDERICTON (GNB) – The following message was issued today by Families and Children Minister Stephen Horsman on the occasion of Wellness Week, Oct. 1 to 7:

Wellness is shaped by the people and places around us. During Wellness Week, various activities are being hosted in communities throughout New Brunswick. I invite you to get out and participate.

Across our province, communities, organizations, schools and workplaces are taking action to build a culture of wellness. Wellness Week is a chance to celebrate our achievements and invite more people to get involved in growing the Wellness Movement.

The Wellness Movement is a grassroots initiative in support of the province’s Wellness Strategy. It is about more than eating well and staying active. It is about how we feel and how we live our lives. Factors such as income, education, literacy level, employment and child care can also affect our ability to live well.

Wellness affects us no matter where we live. It influences the decisions we make; how we create and learn; how we build our lives, families and communities; how we connect with each other and contribute to making our province the best place to raise a family.

Our government believes in building supportive environments to make wellness possible for everyone. This is the best recipe for strong, healthy individuals and families and a stronger province.

By taking steps to improve wellness for ourselves and those around us, we are able to enhance the quality of life we experience and enjoy each and every day. I encourage all New Brunswickers to celebrate Wellness Week. Check the Wellness Events Calendar to find an activity near you.