World Health Day is celebrated annually in April and each year draws attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world.
“The theme for World Health Day 2024 is ‘My health, my right’. This year’s theme was chosen to champion the right of everyone, everywhere to have access to quality health services, education, and information, as well as safe drinking water, clean air, good nutrition, quality housing, decent working and environmental conditions, and freedom from discrimination.” ~ World Health Organisation, who.int
Although these rights remain a challenge for many, it is worth focusing on healthy life choices that you and your family can control – even if your current circumstances are restrictive.
Exercise
Even a small amount of regular exercise can have tremendous benefits for your physical and emotional health. Besides losing weight, regular exercise can help reduce your chances of developing chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, strokes and Type 2 diabetes and can also help strengthen your bones.
Those on a tight budget can exercise effectively without gym memberships or expensive equipment. Walking, running, dancing and stair-climbing is available to everyone. There are also many free workout videos online, which include varying options from yoga to Pilates.
- Stretch your body before and after exercising.
- Use MYO2 as part of your post-exercise recovery routine, massaging the cooling gel into stiff and sore muscles after training.
- Consider MYO2 an essential supplement (“muscle oxygen”) for your muscles and joints, ensuring that when you are required to put in a little extra effort, your kinetic chain can handle the burden, while reducing your risk of injury.
- Keep a tube of MYO2 in your gym bag or first aid kit so that it is handy at all times.
- Aim for a balanced work-out routine, which includes cardio and strength training.
Sleep
Sleep is a critical factor in maintaining good health and a lack of sleep impacts your work and relationships, speeds up the aging process and can result in depression. Most healthy adults get 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night.
- Develop a sound bedtime ritual to prepare you for sleep every night.
- Turn off your device a few hours before bedtime. When the blue light in your device hits your optic nerve, your body stops producing melatonin – melatonin creates the urge for your body to sleep.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and late meals before bedtime.
- Some medications can obstruct your sleep. Consult your doctor.
Stress
Stress occurs when you feel that you are unable to cope with demands or responsibilities (be it work or family pressures) placed on you. Chronic stress results in fatigue, a decrease in immunity, an increase in heart rate and high blood pressure. Stress can also lead to other serious health problems including depression, obesity, insomnia and muscle pain.
- Decide what is stressing you out. Can you eliminate the small things that are causing you stress? If you can, take a short break from what is stressing you out – it may give you a new perspective on your problem.
- Keep your blood sugar stable. Avoid alcohol, refined foods and caffeine.
- Exercise regularly and get enough sleep every night.
- Find support. Share your concerns or feelings with someone you trust.
- Find time for relaxation/meditation.
It is up to you to take an active role in your health care. Do your research, make the necessary lifestyle changes and you will experience better physical and emotional well-being.
