Marla Ahlgrimm: Tips For Women’s Week

Each year in May, the FDA declares one week dedicated to women’s health. In 2022, this is May 9th through the 15th. Today, Marla Ahlgrimm shares a few ways that you can make yourself a priority when it’s time to celebrate being a woman. 

 

Schedule a visit with your doctor. 

 

Each year, our bodies change. The older we get, the faster these changes happen. Make time to visit your primary health care provider for an annual well visit. Marla Ahlgrimm says that this is especially important if you put off visiting the doctor during the worst of the coronavirus crisis.

 

Spend time with people you love. 

 

Valentine’s Day might’ve come and gone, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t show some love to yourself and the people that you care for most. Make spending time with friends and family a priority. Having people that you love near you helps you remember that you have a support network when you need it most. Marla Ahlgrimm says that time with positive influences is also a great way to maintain your mental health. 

 

Stay active. 

 

It doesn’t matter whether you run, jog, swim, or simply work in the yard, keep yourself on the move. Marla Ahlgrimm notes that physical activity can help trim down your waistline while also keeping your joints and bones flexible and strong, respectively. You don’t have to spend countless hours at the gym, but you should stay on your feet and on the move at least 30 minutes every day. 

 

Get adventurous in the kitchen. 

 

There are many different types of cuisine that are healthy that you may not have tried. Marla Ahlgrimm says to check online for recipes from cultures outside of the food you are used to. Thai food, for example, uses lots of lean meats and vegetables. Plus, it relies on spice instead of fat for flavor, and pad Thai is a healthier (and arguably more delicious) alternative to spaghetti. 

 

Explore. 

 

While social distancing guidelines might not still be in play, there’s nothing wrong with heading outdoors where you can spread out and enjoy nature by yourself. Marla Ahlgrimm explains, however, that women should take extra precautions when hiking or biking remote trails. Always let someone know where you’re going or, ideally, go with a group of other women for fun, fitness, and safety.