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Consider this our collective effort to bring some of the most organic, rewarding parts of the Internet to you. Take what you need and share anything you’d like. We hope you find what you’re looking for here!

Activity pages from the "Community Garden"

Until next time, please enjoy this bundle from our harvest!

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Press Pause Activities Calendar

It’s time to spring into action because things are heating up!

Unprecedented times call for updated measures. Finding new ways to stay connected, entertain each other, educate ourselves and organize our homes is important as ever. That’s why the team at Press Pause is sharing a list of weekly activities designed to help you bond with loved ones, learn or do something new, and most importantly, have fun! Check back weekly for new suggestions or download the calendar at the beginning of the month.

From our team (and homes) to yours!

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Featured friends

Here’s where you’ll find our Featured Friends of the week. We're taking every opportunity to highlight our people at Pearson by spotlighting your story submissions. Join us weekly to celebrate the growing community inside Press Pause. If you would like to be featured, please submit your story through the form below. Please keep submissions to 1,000 words or less. We can’t wait to see what you share!

Troy from Minnesota
So many people started working from home in the past year, and my job was no different; I traded my in-person role for an at-home position. Here, I oversee a technical support team who serves customers online and over the phone.

As a result, my wife and I have encountered so many... surprises. Don’t get me wrong, getting cozy with my better half for the better half of a year was actually pretty great! Still, the experience presented new challenges for the both of us. At one point, the Wi-Fi signal was so weak, we both worked from the same 280-square foot office for a day (Video calls were not on the agenda).

One of my favorite parts from working at home with my wife was the surprise conversations we’d have with each other. I’d host a meeting with my team, but my wife wouldn't know I was on a call. I wouldn’t know she was standing outside of my office either. I’d ask my coworkers questions like, “Have you tried the new Girl Scout cookie flavor yet?” I’d share, “That episode of WandaVision blew my mind!” Next thing I know, I’d hear her verbally responding to my thoughts and expressions on the other side of my office door. If my wife didn’t quickly realize I wasn’t talking to her, I’d text her as a heads up.

Other times, my wife would keep her office door closed when she could not be disturbed. Some days, she was buckling down and being productive. Other days, her schedule was stacked full of meetings. Occasionally, she would leave her office door open, only because her office was overheating... but how was I supposed to know that? There were definitely a few days where I interrupted her video calls by asking her about lunch/dinner plans, or sharing that I was hopping in the shower. Awkward!In the end, I recommend quarantining with your partner for an extended period. If you can thrive during that time together, there’s really nothing you two can’t do.

- Troy (35), Minnesota

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At your leisure

Getting on board with the “fake commute”

Like most things in life, working from a distance comes with its benefits and of course, some drawbacks. You risk delaying your drive by sitting in traffic, but you have the chance to finish that sensational podcast. Your train may be running behind, but a few extra minutes allows you to clear your inbox. Whether you love or loathe the traditional morning commute, studies are finding value in creating a “fake commute” as the world continues to work from home.

What is a fake commute?

Without realizing it, many travelers were granted guaranteed time to themselves through their daily commutes. The traditional morning commute allowed drivers, riders, runners, and walkers alike, to clear their minds before beginning their workday. Commuters accepted their commutes and quickly developed habits that supported their overall well-being.

The “fake commute” is ultimately a new way to look at “me time” before and after your workday. Developing a “fake commute” helps define your time dedicated to work and your time divided among everything else. At its core, the “fake commute” is a great way to introduce new habits and benefits into your daily routine.

What are the benefits?

Creating clear distinctions between work and home improves your overall well-being while increasing mental alertness and motivation during working hours. Allocating time for meditation, reading, or visiting your local coffee shop before diving into work can help refresh and relax your body and mind. If you introduce a 20-minute walk or run to your day, a “fake commute” can even improve physical health. Incorporating a “fake commute” into your daily routine also promotes better sleep; studies indicate our eyes require a certain amount of light for proper internal clock functionality. Offering significantly more pros than cons, this new morning ritual is worth testing.

How do I create a fake commute?

Start by setting aside 15 – 30 minutes of your day before work begins or after your workday ends. Try recreating your regular route by biking or walking. Consider finding a new setting to sip your morning coffee. Follow a guided meditation or listen to podcast. Whichever activity you choose, make it enjoyable and sustainable. Add a social element for extra support. Simply “Press Pause” and give yourself some space from work. Then thank us later.

All the details on the digital detox

As technology advances to provide new solutions, it’s no surprise that new electronics also create new problems. Studies about how the Internet, content consumption, and electronic usage affect the body and mind are ongoing. At least, we know it’s possible to strike a balance between life and activities online, and meaningful interactions and engagement offline. Experts suggest completing a “digital detox” as an effective first step in finding that balance.

What is it?

A “digital detox” refers to a period of time during which a person actively refrains from electronic use to regain focus on offline endeavors and interactions. This type of cleanse is valuable for decreasing stress and anxiety while increasing mindfulness and connectedness. This temporary purge can produce positive effects on the mind, body, and spirit.

Digital detox data

It’s important to understand the side effects of Internet and electronic addiction. Prolonged exposure to screens (a.k.a. screen time) is proven to interrupt the natural sleep cycle, increase the risk for obesity, and deteriorate mental health. Other effects include an increased risk of developing depression, anxiety, and attention disorders like ADD and ADHD, especially in young people. Neuroimaging research shows excessive screen time and Internet use can literally damage the brain in terms of emotional processing, executive attention, decision making, and cognitive control. If that’s not bad enough, United Healthcare found American adults are spending an average of 13 hours per day on a screen since the pandemic began in early 2020.

How to prepare for a digital detox in seven steps

Get inspired!
Plan a variety of fun offline activities to keep you motivated!
Determine a reasonable length of time to complete your cleanse from technology.
Give yourself grace and understand some screens will be unavoidable, such as work or distancing learning.
Set realistic boundaries and consider partnering with a buddy who will support your quest for quality time.
Get outside to enjoy the great outdoors or get into a good book!
Ask yourself questions about your electronic habits and take notes throughout your “digital detox” to see how you’ve grown (and for future reference).

Now that you’re armed with information, do you have what it takes? Test your limits and separate yourself from your screens with these easy-to-follow guides: The 7-Day Digital Detox Challenge and The 30-Day Digital Detox Challenge.

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Resources

Products with a purpose: Part I

Five mental health resources for your reference

Five gift guides from Etsy’s editors to celebrate in 2021

Products with a purpose: Part I

Giving back in any capacity is so important these days. So why not treat yourself to something special and give back to the community with the same purchase? Take a look below to learn about a few companies close to our hearts.

Bombas Socks

According to their website, Bombas exists to help support the population experiencing homelessness in the United States. For every product purchased, Bombas will donate a pair of socks to someone in need. This company may sound familiar following their presentation on ABC’s “Shark Tank” in 2014. Since then, Bombas has donated over 40 million clothing items with over 3,000 giving partners in all 50 states. Bombas truly brings a new meaning to the phrase, “Look good, feel good”.

Woodchuck USA

Founded in St. Paul, MN, Woodchuck USA’s mission is simple: Putting nature back into people’s lives. With every purchase of their real wood products, a tree is planted. Millions of trees have been planted across six continents, with a positive impact on all seven. Not only is their team dedicated to connecting all generations to nature, they’re also committed to creating sustainable jobs while producing high-quality items for consumers. Who wood-n’t want to support this cause?

Prosperity Candle

Creating new beginnings both inside and outside the studio, Prosperity Candle supports female refugees in the United States. The owners teach women artisans how to craft ethically responsible candles while providing living-wage employment. The company also provides resources for female refugees to gain their US citizenship, attend school, or even become first-time homeowners. Things are looking brighter already!

Grounds & Hounds Coffee Co.

Twenty percent of all profits from their sustainably sourced coffee-based products are donated to rescue organizations across the country. These funds are dedicated to innovative and impactful programs to help solve animal welfare issues. Their coffee keeps volunteers fueled while proceeds fund valuable resources for the animals. Grounds & Hounds has donated over 2.1 million shelter meals and nearly 3,000 vaccinations for furry friends across the nation. If that’s not paw-sitively awesome, we don’t know what is!

Self-Care is for Everyone

Making self-care resources, reminders, and experiences more accessible is what Self Care is for Everyone is all about. The organization has curated a community of mental-health advocates and self-care practitioners and created a safe space for expression. From tote bags to sweatshirts, each product inspires hope for individuals through independent artists. In 2020, they donated nearly $49,000 to mental health and suicide prevention nonprofits. That’s something everyone can smile about in 2021.

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Five mental health resources for your reference

At Pearson, we recognize the power of our people and the value of our community. We acknowledge the passionate, talented individuals who make up our clients and crew. That’s why we want to provide resources for our team members so they can take care of themselves and each other, both near and far. Take a look at a few of our favorite mental health assets below.

HelpGuide

In 1996, Morgan Leslie Segal died by suicide at age 29. Grappling with their grief, Morgan’s parents discovered other people experienced similar struggles. Dedicated to their daughter, the Segals created HelpGuide as a way to educate and empower individuals through mental health and wellness tools. For 21 years, HelpGuide remains a completely independently funded non-profit organization, dedicated to improving emotional, mental, and social health (among others).

The Blurt Foundation

Depression is difficult. Talking about depression doesn’t need to be. That’s the mission behind The Blurt Foundation. The organization features a strong network of peer support and resources to create awareness, encourage discovery, and ultimately, foster recovery. The Blurt Foundation exists to demolish stigmas about depression and bring people together so they can build each other up.

The CDC

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers much more than COVID-19 guidance. As part of the Department of Health and Human Services, the CDC works to protect the United States from a variety of health and safety threats. As an institution, they offer free data, tools, and resources for an array of mental illnesses. They offer a holistic view of health because they understand how mental health contributes to overall health and well-being.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline

Half of Us

Aimed at individuals between the ages of 15 and 24, mtvU and The Jed Foundation seek to initiate a dialogue about mental health issues and provide resources to struggling young people. Like a conversation with a good friend, Half of Us breaks the stigma of mental health discussions by partnering with public figures to share their personal experiences with stress disorders, anxiety, depression, addiction, and so much more.

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Five gift guides from Etsy’s editors to celebrate in 2021

Everyone knows about Etsy, the online marketplace for independent sellers and handcrafted goods. We didn't need any additional reasons to love Etsy, but we’re delighted to learn about the gift guides assembled by the editors. Sharing the spotlight with creators is just another way Etsy fosters their community of small business owners. If you’re searching for something special, there’s a good chance you’ll find it on Etsy while supporting a cause close to your heart. Keep reading for a preview of the generous gift guides created by Etsy’s editors.

Black-owned shops

Even though Black History Month has passed, Etsy wants to celebrate Black community members all year long. As part of their brand commitment to supporting Black business owners, Etsy continues to showcase Black creators with their Editors’ Picks. Current seller spotlights include MAW SUPPLY for bold fashion, Candice Luter | Art + Home for home décor, Kingsley Leather for personalized leather gifts and others.

Latina-owned shops

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month beyond October, Etsy’s editors curated a collection of Hispanic and Latina-based shops for all your shopping needs. Empowering Latinx entrepreneurs can be as simple as shopping. Visit Mai Solorzano’s shop for natural statement jewelry and Shop La Flor for vintage fashion and accessories

Earth-friendly finds/sustainable shops

Shopping sustainably has never been easier thanks to Etsy’s own selection of eco-friendly shops. Each purchase from these specialty shops helps reduce carbon emissions and create positive environmental change. A recent featured favorite from Etsy editors is AdrianMartinus, a sustainable woodworking and homewares shop that transforms used skateboards into practical furniture and fine art.

Everyday supplies: masks and more

At the beginning of the pandemic, Etsy was the go-to place to purchase re-usable masks when resources were scarce. Since then, the assortment of materials, fabric patterns, and mask types only continues to expand. Etsy is also sharing a variety ofcleaning supplies and self-care products to help everyone adjust to the “new normal” from the comfort of their homes.

DIY kits

Over the past year, we were forced to adapt our learning processes. From students transitioning to distance learning to adults who learned how to work from home, 2020 proved your education never truly ends. Many of us needed to re-learn how to spend our free time, often indoors. Thankfully, the editors at Etsy collected an assortment of shops who sell DIY kits for a variety of crafts and interests, like baking, embroidery, painting, and more.

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