When it comes to health, many women are great at caring for others but often put themselves last. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health will be helping women to put their own health first during the 2018 Women’s Health Week, 3-7 September.
This year, we are encouraging women to make time to better care for their health. Research tells us the biggest barrier to a woman maintaining a healthy lifestyle is lack of time.
“We can be so busy taking care of others that we can fail to find the time for our own health,” says Janet Michelmore AO, Executive Director of Jean Hailes.
“Many of us need reminding that sometimes we have to put ourselves first to ensure we are able to look after others.
“We’re encouraging all women to put themselves first by signing up to the week to receive our free health information, including some simple steps to help pave the way to positive health outcomes.”
We also want women to set aside some time during the week of 3-7 September to focus on their health.
Here are FIVE simple things you can do for yourself during Women’s Health Week:
- Make an appointment with your GP for a health check and ensure you are up to date with any preventive screenings, such as cervical cancer and breast checks
- Spend at least 30 minutes a day doing moderate activity such as walking. Three 10-minute sessions are just as effective as 30 minutes of continuous activity
- Invest time in your nutrition by shopping fresh and preparing your meals at home, or swapping unhealthy snacks for healthier options (such as your afternoon biscuit for a piece of fruit)
- Nourish your emotional wellbeing. Do something during the week for no other reason than it makes you feel good, such as reading a book, watching a funny movie, or catching up with a friend
- Try to change at least one unhealthy habit such as smoking, snacking when you are not hungry, spending too much time sitting, or skipping breakfast.
Jean Hailes for Women’s Health also invites women to host their own Women’s Health Week event.
It could be a morning tea, a fun health information session, a workplace gathering, a book club session, a bike ride, or even just a walk with friends – whatever you like! It’s easy and fun.
Visit the Women’s Health Week website for more details and, like last year, you could be one of more than 1500 events around the country celebrating women’s good health during the week of 3-7 September.
Go on – put yourself first. By investing in yourself, you’ll be better able to look after those you care about.
For more information on Women’s Health Week and for inspiration on fun events you can join in during the campaign, please go to www.womenshealthweek.com.au
