It's Your Time: Get Inspired, Get Healthy

By: Red Hot Mamas

Published: July 14, 2010

National Women’s Health Week begins this year on Mother’s Day, May 11, 2008. Sponsored by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health (OWH), the week-long initiative empowers all women of every age across the nation to get healthy by taking action .

Far too often, women forget about taking care of themselves in order to take care of their spouses, children and parents. But, research shows that when women take care of themselves, the health of their family improves. National Women’s Health Week is a reminder to take some time for yourself.

During the week, families, communities, businesses, government, health organizations and other groups work together to educate women about steps they can take to improve their physical and mental health and prevent disease. Make your health a top priority. This week, start with some simple steps:

• Engage in physical activity most days of the week- walk briskly, mow the lawn, dance, swim, bicycle. If you’re not already physically active, remember to start slowly.
• Eat a nutritious diet- Lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat milk, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, nuts. Stay away from saturated fats, cholesterol, salt and added sugars.
• Visit a healthcare provider to receive regular check-ups and preventive screenings.
• Avoid risky behaviors like smoking and not wearing a seatbelt- Drink alcohol in moderation. Limit it to one drink a day.
• Think you’re up for a challenge? The Office of Women’s Health has some exciting activities planned including the WOMAN Challenge kicking off during National Women’s Health Week (May 11-17, 2008). Join thousands of women across the country that plan to embark on an eight-week physical activity challenge for better health.

The WOMAN Challenge (Women and girls Out Moving Across the Nation) encourages women to take 10,000 steps or 30 minutes of moderate activity most days of the week. Participants will receive a tracking log to record their progress throughout the eight weeks, motivational e-mails and health tips to help reach their goals. Women can chose to travel one of six different virtual routes across America. It is a free and it begins on Mother’s Day this year! Get a team together to take the challenge with you. Ask us or your local program director about starting a Red Hot Mamas Walking Group.

The Red Hot Mamas is pleased the Office on Women’s Health recognizes the importance of having a week devoted to women’s health across the nation. We encourage you to make your health a top priority not only this week but throughout the entire year. For more information about how to get involved in Women’s Health Week, visit the OWH website.