National Women’s Health Week
As a woman, I am fully cognizant of the fact that we forget to take care of ourselves. We place everyone’s health over our own. How many times have we ignored our needs over the needs of a loved one? Or how many times have we moved things in our schedule, to make time to take our loved one to a doctor’s appointment?
The reality, however, is that if we don’t take care of ourselves, then we will be unable to care for others. This is where the National Women’s Health Week comes in. It always begins the day after Mother’s Day, May 8th and goes until May 14th, 2016. The goal is to empower women to take charge of their health and make it a priority. Further, the goal is to help women understand what steps they can take to improve their health. Health, doesn’t just imply physical well-being. It includes emotional and mental well-being as well. In order to be completely healthy, all three aspects must be met.
What are some things that women can do to take care of their health?
- Consult with your general physician to schedule a preventive screening
- Exercise at least 20 minutes daily
- Eat healthy –
- More fruits and vegetables in the diet
- Eating whole grains
- Reducing trans fats is essential
- Reducing sodium in your diet
- Reducing added sugars
- Avoiding beverages high in sugars
- Take your daily multi-vitamins
- Drinking alcohol in moderation
- Avoid smoking or decrease your smoking habits
- Avoid behaviors like drinking and driving, or texting and driving
- Taking care of your mental health
- Getting plenty of rest/sleep every night
While this list isn’t exhaustive, it is definitely a good starting point. Taking care of ourselves and our health is a way of loving ourselves. We not only ensure our well-being, but we can ensure others’ well-being as well. The choice to take control starts with each one of us.
And while you are calling your mother to wish her a happy Mother’s Day, encourage her to take care of her health too 🙂
