National Women’s Health & Fitness Day
National Women’s Health and Fitness Day is a day to be celebrated! Today we focus our attention on women’s physical and mental health and the small steps that can be taken to increase overall wellbeing as we age. Making health a priority is sometimes easier said than done. Some days life gets in the way, motivation lacks, and other responsibilities take precedence. Today is a day to reflect, and perhaps revisit how we can continue to prioritize a healthy lifestyle!
As women go through life, the loss of muscle mass can reduce both strength and endurance. Muscle weakness can contribute to fatigue, imbalances, and reduced activity tolerance. Along with this, the risk of injury may increase opening the door to osteoporosis, poor posture, and loss of balance. Exercise, specifically strength training, is one of the best ways to prevent complications with muscles, joints, and bones. A moderate exercise regimen can help us maintain our strength, balance, and flexibility! Consider adding small med balls or dumbbells to your fitness routine. Small steps can make a big difference!
Just as our physical health is important, so is our mental health. Women who struggle to stay physically healthy may struggle to stay mentally healthy as well. Chronic health issues such as diabetes and heart disease can trigger higher stress levels, depression, and anxiety. It is important for women to carve out time and space for themselves to relax and recharge. Whether it be getting lost in a good book, grabbing coffee with a friend, exercising, or spending time in prayer, find a moment each day to do something that you love and fills your cup back up.
Health is a lifelong journey and most certainly not a “one size fits all.” Every woman is unique and what works for one might not work for another. We all have different goals, different motivations for wanting to stay active, and different approaches to reaching our best selves. The key to building healthy habits into daily living is finding balance and what works best for us as individuals.
