Even though Women's Heath Week is over, it doesn't mean you have to stop exploring the different ways to be healthy. Whether you lobby your representatives on issues of women’s health like the Wisconsin women did at their Health Policy Summit, attend a workshop or event like the group of women at the Carl Vogel Center, tell a friend about something you learned, go for a run, eat an apple, or do something else completely – it is all a fabulous part of our country’s effort to be more conscious of the health issues women face on a daily basis. Know that whatever you do, you are part of a nationwide movement to make women’s health a priority from the ground up - starting by feeling good about yourself!
Here are four more ideas to help keep you going:
1.Schedule an appointment for a general check-up
This year’s theme for National Women’s Health Week was “It’s Your Time” – time to become concerned about your own well-being and give priority to your personal mental, emotional, and physical health. Take the time to ensure that you are up to date on your immunizations and health screenings; remember that health is not just the absence of sickness. Preventative care provided in these general check-ups is crucial to maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
2. Write a letter to the editor
In this frustrating era of divided government and outrageous radicals, politics are getting more and more personal, especially when it comes to reproductive rights and women’s health. Writing a letter to the editor is a great way to make your voice – as a constituent, a patient, a caregiver, a parent, or simply as a woman – heard. Letters are usually 200-250 words long, depending on the newspaper. Perhaps something happened in your community that you feel strongly about or there is a perspective of a recent national event you believe wasn’t fully represented. Write about your own opinion on the status of women’s health and the way our nation is or is not dealing with the challenges. It’s up to you. Express yourself! If you are interested in this, and would like ideas of what to write about – please don’t hesitate to message me.