While in elementary school, we were taught many of life’s most valuable lessons. Perhaps one of the most important was balance. While we were instructed to sit at our desks and work, we were also encouraged to play on the playground and have fun. Unfortunately, as we grow older the balance gets disrupted by demanding careers and busy schedules. We need to remember that physical activity is just as important as an adult as it is as a child. Just as there is a need to work, there is a need to “play.” Losing sight of this balance often results in physical inactivity and the decline of personal health.
Since we’re reminiscing on our “school days,” let’s talk about our food choices. Many of us never outgrew the sweet tooth and that’s okay. Just remember, you can still have your chocolate, as long as you keep it in moderation. However, fruits and vegetables are still the most important part of your diet and always will be. Not only do you need them daily, but your family does too. Help keep a balanced diet in your home by providing these nutrients to your kids and spouse. Also, don't forget to drink plenty of water. The recommended amount is eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. Be sure to keep yourself hydrated or you could over-exhaust yourself, which could lead to fainting, low blood pressure or worse, a heat stroke.
Healthy goals for you to try this week:
· Exercise – Get a minimum of 30 minutes most days, if not all days of the week.
· Eat a balanced diet emphasizing a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, low-fat or non-fat dairy products, fish, legumes and sources of protein low in saturated fat (e.g., poultry, lean meats and plant sources).
· Don’t smoke – if you smoke, stop. Cut the amount of cigarettes you smoke daily in half…each day cut the previous day’s cigarettes in half until you end up with nothing left to smoke.
Remember to avoid second hand smoke.
· Don't let a slip up keep you down. If you get off your exercise schedule, have a cigarette or overindulge yourself on a meal, just get back on track with more determination to establishing a healthy lifestyle.
So, remember to maintain a healthy balance of work and play!
Posts
At the end of any journey, it’s always nice to reflect on the experience and enjoy the exhilaration that comes with accomplishment. During the past 12 weeks, seven real women have opened their hearts and minds to women across the country. They’ve revealed struggles, shared empowering messages, offered valuable tips and served as genuine advocates for this program.
During the Choose To Move challenge, these women not only engaged in physical activity, they discovered a community of women who share a common goal – increase physical activity in order to develop a healthier lifestyle. Their success is a direct result of determination, commitment and the support they received from those in the Choose To Move community.
From a mom with three kids to a full-time college student to women in the workplace, our real women take on many important roles. And as women juggling multiple responsibilities, we want to be the best we can be - a common thread among women in America. However, in order to be the best for our families, we must do what’s best for ourselves. Our seven real women did exactly that! Each woman, in her own way, learned how to make time for physical activity and develop better eating habits!
For Ruann, Kara, Lisa, Melanie, Vernita, Kathleen and Zulema, the 12-week challenge has come to an end. However, the ultimate reality is that their life-long journey to maintain a healthy lifestyle has only begun. No matter where you are in this journey, I encourage you to rely on women in the Choose To Move community, as well as those around you. Take advantage of the Choose To Move program and turn this challenge into a way of life.
Dear Dr. Mieres:
About the only time I can find to walk is during my lunch break. Is it better to eat prior to or following a vigerous walk?
Thank you,
Ruth
Dr. Mieres,
I saw you on TV several months ago and while the face has changed some, the name surely was very familiar. I finally found out that you are a native of Trinidad and just wanted to tell you how proud I am of you and the great job you are doing.
I believe we attended the same high school in Curepe, Trinidad, SAGHS.
Keep up the good work.
Denise Baptiste formerly Charles
(Math Teacher/College Instructor)
Dr. Mieres,
I saw you on TV several months ago and while the face has changed some, the name surely was very familiar. I finally found out that you are a native of Trinidad and just wanted to tell you how proud I am of you and the great job you are doing.
I believe we attended the same high school in Curepe, Trinidad, SAGHS.
Keep up the good work.
Denise Baptiste formerly Charles
(Math Teacher/College Instructor)
Comments
Apr 12 | Melanie said …
Thanks for such good advice. I "overindulged" last Monday night and felt terrible about it! I have to forgive myself and move on, doing better every day. BTW, do you recommend a baby aspirin for women my age (53) ?
Melanie
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