Let’s Celebrate National Women’s Health Week

This month, we’re taking time to shine a light on women’s health. National Women’s Health week begins on Mother’s Day, May 10th. It’s a time to reset and refocus on healthy living. This is more important than ever, as the COVID-19 pandemic has many women taking on even more responsibilities at work, their children’s schools, and at home.

A Holistic View of Women’s Health

Too often, women’s health messaging is focused exclusively on diet and weight loss. While those things are important to maintain your health, they’re just one part of a healthy lifestyle. National Women’s Health Week reminds us to take a holistic view of women’s health, including physical, emotional, and psychological health.

Take a moment to ask yourself the following questions to check in about your health:

• How is my mood? Do I feel anxious, depressed, or sad?
• How are my relationships with family and friends? Do I feel supported, or am I feeling lonely?
• Am I managing any chronic health conditions? How well are they managed?
• What is my stress level? What things could make it better?
• How do I feel about my body shape? My physical strength? My ability to engage in activities I enjoy?
• How much sleep have I been getting?
• What have I done in the past week for myself? Do I set aside time for fun and relaxation (even in small amounts)?
• How is my financial health? Am I making progress toward my goals?
• What are my goals for living a healthier life?

Take Steps Toward a Healthier Lifestyle

Once you’ve thought about the questions above, you probably have a sense of areas in which you could be doing better with your health. Many of us are struggling to find a healthy balance during the pandemic, so know that you’re not alone if you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or exhausted. That makes it all the more important to take small steps to improve your everyday health. Consider the following ideas to stay healthy during this challenging time:

• Go for a daily walk.

  Spending some time outside each day is incredibly helpful for your mood. Plus, it gives you an opportunity to move your body. Even places with stay at home orders offer exceptions for personal recreation, so take advantage with a short walk every day.

• Set aside time to spend with friends.

  Perhaps social distancing means you’ve been feeling lonely and isolated. If a real-life hangout can’t happen, make a date for a video call. Social connection is incredibly important, especially during this stressful time.

• Have a home dance party.

  Feeling cooped up and stressed out? Put on your favorite tunes and dance it out! You’ll get a natural endorphin boost that will bring a smile to your face. This is also a good way for kids to burn off extra energy.

• Make time for meals.

  When life gets pressured, mealtimes are often the first things to go. If you’re finding yourself eating in the car, quickly eating at your desk, or mindlessly chowing down in front of a screen, it’s time to carve back some time for meals. Even taking 10 or 15 minutes to focus on what you’re eating can make you feel physically and mentally rejuvenated. Bonus points if you can coordinate with your partner or children for family mealtime.

• Meditate.

  Research shows that meditation can have a profound effect on your mood, stress level, and even your thinking abilities. Set aside a few minutes each day (before bedtime often works well) to meditate. Free guided meditation apps like Headspace or Calm are a good way to get started.

Women’s Health Week is an opportunity for women across the country to join together in healthier living. To find other people on a journey to healthier living, check out #NWHW and #FindYourHealth on social media. Together, we can build stronger communities and take small steps toward a healthier life.