As I walked into the quiet clinic at 7:45 a.m., I saw my nurse sitting at her station and her son bouncing a small basketball on the wall.
I nonchalantly ask him, “What game are you playing?” He proceeded to explain to me the rules of the bounce-the-ball-on-the-wall game and how to garner points. Fifteen minutes later we’re both chuckling, out of breath, and high-fiving each other for a great game. That’s how simple it was. We did not even know we were exercising. We were simply having fun.
In marking National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, I would like to spread awareness about the valuable tools available at our fingertips. However, I would be remiss if I failed to mention the common challenges that prevent us from living a healthy lifestyle.
Some include the expense of eating healthy foods, finding time for meal prep and exercise and a lack of motivation. The good news is that although healthy living comes with its challenges, it also come with its rewards. The choice of living a healthy life starts anew each day with being intentional about nutrition and exercise. Creating new habits for ourselves and family can be met first with a sense of healthy skepticism.
It is important to be knowledgeable about this and plan to stay committed. Here a few tips:
- Have a family meal without screens or devices. Use this time to share elements about your day with your family or friends.
- Model a healthy lifestyle at home and at work. Share with your colleagues healthy recipes you enjoy making, or choose to take a walk during your lunch break and bring others with you.
- Make your health and well-being a priority. Craft out a specific time during the day you can commit to for self-care.
- Ask for help and use resources to develop your healthy living plan. A few resources include MyPlate, the Dr. Yum Project and Kids Eat in Color.
Learn more about primary care services at Northside.
