As we step into the new year, it is a great time for African women to prioritize our health and well-being by making conscious choices to adopt healthier lifestyles and being intentional in our actions. African women can unlock a multitude of benefits that positively impact our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This article will lay out some advantages of embracing a healthy lifestyle and being intentional in our journey to wellness.
Choosing to be healthy and intentional empowers women to take control of our well-being. African women face unique health challenges like higher rates of obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Regular exercise and a nutritious diet will promote weight management, improve cardiovascular health, and enhance overall immune function.
Being African and healthy is revolutionary
Chairman Omali Yeshitela knows this all too well. At 80+ years with a plant-based diet for several decades, the Chairman committed to improving his health so that he could live long enough to see and enjoy the victory of the African revolution.
Even if this is not your goal, Africans need to set healthy goals that will decrease the impact that living under colonialism does to our well-being. This may include decreasing sugars and fats as well as phasing in exercise increments at a time. This is particularly important for Africans 40 years old and older.
By prioritizing wellness, you can enhance your physical health, boost self-esteem, and improve your overall quality of life. Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and practicing stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or yoga can all contribute to an improved sense of well-being.
When was the last time that you breathed deeply? Stretched? Or engaged in physical activity? If the answer to this question is “I can’t remember,” then sister girl, it’s time to get intentional in 2024 and beyond.
ANWO helping you to get healthy
The African National Women’s Organization (ANWO) is here to help with our Jumpstart Mondays, instructional videos, and tips we post in our Facebook group. So far, I’ve encouraged you to drink more water, increase fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, and ride your bike, among other suggestions.
Our L.A. branch has initiated the Fit for the Fight program, where branch members meet weekly for physical activity. In the heart of our community, Fit to Fight is an innovative program designed to be a holistic approach to empower our members for self-sustainability and self-preservation. In a world where resilience is the key to survival, this initiative aims to equip African women with the strength, skills, and mindset needed to navigate life’s challenges.
If it’s hard at first; I guarantee it will get easier. Start with morning walks in your neighborhood, a park, or a trail. Check how much water you drink a day and double it and keep doubling it until you hit your water intake goal. Replace added sugary foods with fruits. You can do this for yourself, but it will make a deep impact on those around you.
Choosing to be healthy and intentional can create a ripple effect in your home and community. African women who are physically and mentally fit have the greatest capacity to inspire and motivate the people around us, including our family and friends.
Sharing experiences, knowledge, and resources will foster a sense of camaraderie, support, and collective growth. By becoming your own health and wellness advocate, you can contribute to reducing health disparities and promoting healthier lifestyles in our communities.
We are all in this together, and remember, “it takes a village.” Next time you want to work out or go for a walk, take a friend or family member with you.
Join ANWO and our health and wellness initiatives. Join our live workouts and follow our group for health tips. Register for the 2024 ANWO Convention at convention.anwouhuru.org.
Let’s spend this year intentionally.
We are Winning!
African Women Must Lead!
