Celebrating Women’s Health Week 2021
Women’s Health Week, 6 to 10 September 2021, is a reminder for all women to set aside time for their health and wellbeing by encouraging them to take proactive steps to be healthy in mind and body.
According to HSS Audit Manager, Jo Lawton, sometimes it can be hard to prioritise your time and own health as a busy wife and working mother.
“Since starting a family in 2003 and then returning to full-time work in 2015, I found I had less and less time for myself,” Jo said.
“Over the years my health declined through bad eating habits and not enough exercise. I had all the excuses – too tired, too late in the day, not enough time and other commitments getting in the way.”
“At the start of COVID-19 last year when schools closed late March and I was pretty much working from home full-time, I very quickly had time to reflect on where my life was at.
“My kids are now teenagers and not so dependent, I’m in my mid-40s and not getting younger, and I now have at least an hour and a half back in my day not travelling to work.
“It just felt like a light-bulb moment.”
In early April last year, Jo started her ‘me’ regime with healthier food options, daily exercise which included walking, cycling and running, and less indulging in chocolate, cheese and alcohol.
“The results have been really rewarding,” she said.
“I have more energy and motivation, a positive mindset, I have lost weight and feel better than I have in 15 years.
“There are now no more excuses and I make sure I find time ‘for me’ every day – even it’s just 15mins.”
Jo’s top tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle;
- Prioritise yourself and your time – if you’re not healthy, you’re not giving your family or your work your ‘best self’
- Set achievable goals – weekly to start with
- Find a balance – it’s ok to indulge every now and again
- Make it fun!