Women's Health Week for Life
Women's Health Week runs from September 2 - 6 and is an essential reminder for women of all ages to prioritise their well-being. The week can serve as a way to reset health habits, set new goals, and take actionable steps toward a healthier lifestyle. So lock the bathroom door, put on a candle, take a bath and review some of my practical wellness tips that can help extend Women's Health Week for a lifetime. I can guarantee no one in your house will starve while you do this!
1. Schedule regular health check-ups
Routine health check-ups are crucial in detecting potential health issues early on. Use Women's Health Week as a reminder to schedule an annual GP appointment, mammogram, Pap smear, or any other screenings recommended for your age and health history. Regular visits to your healthcare provider can help you stay on top of your health and address any concerns before they become serious.
2. Prioritise mental health
Mental well-being is just as important as physical health. Take time to assess your mental health and make self-care a priority. Whether it’s practicing mindfulness, journaling, meditating, or talking to a therapist, find what works best for you. Stress, anxiety, and depression can have significant impacts on your overall health, so it's important to address these issues with care and attention. I have personally been able to link my mental health to a physical activity such a yoga. It provides the mental space to check in with my body and assess what I need.
3. Incorporate Physical Activity into Your Routine
Exercise is vital for maintaining a healthy body and mind. If you’re not already active, Women's Health Week is an excellent time to start. Aim for at least 20 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This could be anything from brisk walking, light weights, active stretching, or yoga, to more intense activities like running or strength training. Try 20 min a day for the first week then build up 10 minutes a day for the following week and so on until you get to at least 45 minutes a day. Focussing on building strength to improve joint health naturally helps to keep you active for longer.
4. Eat a Balanced Diet
Nourishing your body with the right foods is foundational to good health. Focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats and pure collagen supplements to assist muscle recovery post exercise. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine. Consider consulting with a nutritionist if you need personalised advice or meal planning tips. Gut health is essential to absorb the benefits of wholefoods and nutrition (see more below). Natural supplements for a leaky gut such as grass fed and sustainably sourced collagen assist with strengthening the gastrointestinal tract which means your gut has the best chance to do good with the nutrients you eat and drink.
5. Stay Hydrated
On the topic of drinking, proper hydration is essential for overall health. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Staying hydrated can improve your energy levels, support gut health, and help maintain glowing skin. If you find it challenging to drink enough water, try setting reminders or infusing your water with fruits or herbs to make it more enjoyable. Adding hydrolysed collagen to water in the afternoon can also help to keep you feeling fuller for longer as well as improving skin vitality and elasticity.
6. Get Quality Sleep
Sleep is often overlooked, but it is a critical component of wellness. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night. To improve your sleep quality, establish a consistent bedtime routine, reduce screen time before bed, and create a relaxing sleep environment. Poor sleep can lead to a variety of health issues, including impaired cognitive function, mood swings, and an increased risk of chronic conditions.
7. Cultivate Healthy Relationships
Healthy relationships can have a positive impact on your mental and emotional well-being. Surround yourself with supportive and uplifting people. This Women's Health Week, take time to nurture your relationships with friends, family, and loved ones. Set boundaries where necessary, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re in an unhealthy or toxic relationship.
8. Practice Preventive Care
Preventive care is about taking proactive steps to avoid illness or injury. This includes getting vaccinated, practicing safe sun exposure, performing regular self-examinations (like breast exams), and avoiding risky behaviors such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. Prevention is always better than cure, so take this week as an opportunity to review your habits and make necessary adjustments.
9. Mind Your Gut Health
Gut health plays a vital role in overall wellness, influencing everything from digestion to immunity to mental health. Incorporate collagen for gut health and fiber-rich foods into your diet to support a healthy gut. Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are great options. If you experience a leaky gut, consider consulting with a healthcare provider to address any underlying problems.
10. Engage in Regular Screenings
Health screenings can detect diseases early when they are most treatable. Depending on your age and risk factors, screenings for conditions like breast cancer, cervical cancer, osteoporosis, and heart disease are recommended. Be proactive in discussing with your healthcare provider which screenings are right for you.
Women's Health Week is a sage reminder that we often dismiss our health and well-being. By incorporating practical tips into your daily routine, you can take meaningful steps toward a healthier and more balanced life. Remember, wellness is a journey, not a destination, so be patient with yourself and make adjustments as needed to support your overall health.
Take this week to celebrate your health, make informed decisions, and empower yourself with the knowledge and tools to live your best life.
Women's Health week runs from September 2 - 6. The Jean Hailes Foundation is a wonderful resource for women's health issues and topics.
