WELL WOMEN OF COLOR | Rosalind Brooks

Getting and Staying Healthy is a Family Affair

Spending time with our families and staying active are both important to our lives. We get a psychological boost from hanging out with the people we love, and regular exercise not only helps maintain healthy weight — it can improve our overall health, reduce stress, and may even strengthen the immune system. So why not combine them whenever the opportunity presents itself?

If the family that prays together stays together, it’s equally true that the family that stays healthier together lives longer together. Here are some ideas for merging family time with fitness:

Bicycle Riding. If you own bicycles, they should not just be taking up space in the garage. Take them out, dust them off, and schedule an after-dinner family bike ride at least twice a week.

Swimming. Summer is here — that means it’s time to get in the pool! Swimming, playing, dancing, or running in the water are great forms of exercises that are also loads of fun!

Walking. Family walks are enjoyable for everyone. Children have a natural love for the outdoors, and this activity will benefit them for their entire lives.

Dancing. Dancing is not just for special occasions. Cranking up the music and dancing around the house together works up a sweat, increases your heart rate, produces much-needed endorphins (from all of the laughing!), and is just plain good old-fashioned fun.

If you have any questions about how you and your loved ones can stay healthy, send an email to roz@wellwomenofcolor.com. You can also visit the Vegas Roots Community Garden to purchase fresh, life-giving vegetables straight from the source. For more information, go to vegasroots.org.