Wednesday, April 15, 2009

April Is Stress Awareness Month

April is Stress Awareness Month, and April 16th is National Stress Awareness Day, as sponsored by the non-profit Health Resources Network, http://www.stresscure.com/hrn/.

To assist with long-term stress relief, the American Counseling Association recommends, among other things, finding forms of exercise you enjoy and doing them often, and getting enough sleep and good nutrition.
For weight management, the American Dietic Association offers this:
People who keep physically active are more successful at losing and keeping off extra pounds. A physically active lifestyle offers many rewards in addition to weight management, such as heart health, strong bones, and stress relief. For weight management, experts recommend a combined total of 30 minutes of moderate activity on most days. Smaller amounts are OK, but try to accumulate at least 30 minutes a day. If you haven't been physically active, build up the time gradually. Focus on increasing daily physical activity, rather than setting unrealistic "exercise" goals. Pick an activity that you enjoy and are likely to continue, such as a brisk walk in the morning or a swim after work. Before beginning any exercise program, however, be sure to consult your physician.

So consider going for a walk or run through one of our many city parks, taking a fitness class at the rec. center, playing some pickup hoops at one of the city basketball courts, etc.

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