The purpose of Women's Health Month is to maximize public awareness of women's health issues, empower women to be their own health advocates, reduce health care disparities, and promote the physical and emotional well-being of women in Hawaii.  This year women have the additional issue of dealing with tough economic times while maintaining the health of their families and themselves.  

Following the lead of First Lady Michelle Obama this year Women's Health Month will have an initiative on promoting healthy eating through gardening.  So much of our current health care crisis can be tied back to our eating, such as the number one killer of women,
heart disease.      

Reduce Anxiety
Feeling anxious? Regain a sense of calm with these easy tips.
Anxiety can strike at any time, and some of us are more susceptible than others. Family issues, workplace worries, and the day-to-day obligations of our busy schedules can take a toll on how we feel, both physically and emotionally. To ease feelings of anxiety or tension, try these easy methods for stress reduction.

1. Take a Deep Breath
   When people are stressed or anxious, they tend to take shallow breaths, which can actually increase feelings of tension. Taking several slow, deep breaths can restore a sense of calm and can be done almost anywhere. Start by exhaling deeply while contracting your stomach, then inhale slowly as you expand your abdomen. Continue inhaling as you expand your chest and raise your shoulders up to your ears. Hold your breath for a few seconds, then slowly exhale in a reverse pattern. Repeat two or three times, and feel the stress gradually leave your body.
   
2. Get Moving
   Physical activity helps the body to relieve anxiety, and it also releases endorphins, the body's natural "feel-good" chemicals. Virtually any type of exercise is beneficial for reducing stress, from jogging to swimming to taking a brisk walk around the office.
   
3. Slow Down
   When things get hectic, particularly at work, we tend to speed up in order to feel like we're getting things done in a timely manner. If you feel anxious while doing your job, practice slowing down. Instead of breathlessly answering your phone the second it rings, take a moment to calm yourself before picking up. Slow down your speech, too; talking at a rapid pace may make you sound tense and feel flustered and out of control.
   
4. Visualize an Anxiety-Free You
   During visualization, also known as guided imagery, you're in control of your own peaceful dream. Imagine a calm, relaxed setting, such as a beach, mountain peak, or your lanai, and insert yourself into the scene. Stay with your vision for several minutes, until you feel your mind and body relax. Visualization can be practiced at home or in your office, with or without an audiotape to guide you.
   
   Shared by Lindsey Tanimoto, UCLA

At the YWCA of O'ahu, we support each other in our journey towards fitness and a healthy lifestyle.  Celebrate Women's Health Month with the YWCA's wellness community during our Open House Week at Laniakea - September 14-18.  See you there!