What is Women's Health?
What does it mean to be a healthy woman in this day and age?
Everywhere you look, you see articles and advertisements to make you a healthier version of yourself. Things are getting confusing! How many sit-ups do I need to do to be healthy? Do I need to start counting calories, or stop eating chocolate?
Never fear ladies! Looking after yourself doesn’t need to be difficult. Let’s have a look at some basic information about women’s health and see what it is all about.
Good Food
I’m not here to tell you to deprive your body of delicious food in exchange for lettuce leaves, so don’t go throwing away that block of chocolate!
The key is to focus on the nutrients that keep our bodies going. Feel free to indulge in that extra of scoop of ice cream but try to remember to balance it out with some fruits, vegetables, proteins, grains, and carbohydrates.
Find out some great information in Healthy Food Guide.
Fabulous Mood
Your mental health is super important. What simple activities make you feel happy? Is it watching the sunrise, playing with your dog, or sitting in the quiet while having your morning coffee?
I try to dedicate at least 20 minutes per day to doing something completely for myself. Dancing around in the kitchen to my favourite songs, relaxing on the couch with a book or talking on the phone to my sister. It helps to clear my mind and makes me a nicer person to everyone around me!
See Prevention Magazine Australia for more tips on keeping a healthy mind.
Movement Matters
I’m not going to insist that you join a gym and commit to exercising there every day (although if that suits you, go for it!) It can be as simple a gentle walk, some yoga in your loungeroom or some stretches when getting out of bed in the morning. Whatever works for you!
It is about keeping your muscles and joints active to allow your body to do what you want it to do.
For help with exercise and movement, check out Women’s Fitness International Magazine.
Women’s Health Week is celebrated from 4–8 September.
Come along to Whittlesea Library on Wednesday 6 September from 6.30pm – 8.30pm to learn how food and mood are connected to your general wellbeing in this informative session with local Women’s health practitioner Justine. Find out how you can lift your mood with a 10-minute daily meditation and get some tips on positive psychology. We will also share foods that lift the spirits and soul. If you are keen to come along, you will need to register for the event – spaces are limited!
Lalor Library will also be hosting some events to celebrate Women’s Health Week. A volunteer from Breast Screen Victoria will be holding an information session in English on Saturday 2 September from 1.00pm – 2.00pm, and in Arabic on Tuesday 5 September from 4.30pm – 5.30pm. Women can learn how to conduct a breast check at home, and also find out how to book a breast screen appointment.
On Thursday 7 September from 11.00am – 1.00pm, come to Lalor Library for the Let’s Talk Money Workshop. This workshop is for women who are interested in learning about managing money and finances!
If you identify as a different gender, we are happy to help you out with resources to suit your needs – speak to your librarian!