Health

Remember to email your health questions to shes_all_fat@hotmail.com  with "Health Q" in the subject line!

Though I now have a "F*ck Health" attitude, I'm keeping this section because while self-esteem, dignity, and fair treatment shouldn't hinge on it, Health and all it's aspects - for the body, mind, and soul - can be interesting to people. People like me. :p So here we go.

  For Your Body:

Some warm-up and cool down stretches to work your bod and prevent injuries before going on a walk or hike - and remember, stop and go see your doctor if you

• have pain, tightness, or pressure in your chest or left neck, shoulder, or arm
• feel dizzy or sick
• break out in a cold sweat
• have muscle cramps
• feel pain in your joints, feet, ankles, or legs.    

You could hurt yourself if you ignore the pain.

If you can't do them all, do what you can.Remember not to bounce when you stretch. Perform slow movements and stretch only as far as you feel comfortable.

Side Reaches

Reach one arm over your head and to the side. Keep your hips steady and your shoulders straight to the side. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat on the other side.

Knee Pull

Lean your back against a wall. Keep your head, hips, and feet in a straight line. Pull one knee to your chest, hold for 10 seconds, then repeat with the other leg.

Wall Push

Lean your hands on a wall with your feet about 3-4 feet away from the wall. Bend one knee and point it toward the wall. Keep your back leg straight with your foot flat and your toes pointed straight ahead. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat with the other leg.

Leg Curl

Pull your right foot to your buttocks with your right hand. Keep your knee pointing straight to the ground. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat with your left foot and hand.

    For Your Mind:

An article on personal boundaries:

"The purpose of having boundaries is to protect and take care of ourselves.  We need to be able to tell other people when they are acting in ways that are not acceptable to us.  A first step is starting to know that we have a right to protect and defend ourselves.  That we have not only the right, but the duty to take responsibility for how we allow others to treat us."

    And For Your Soul:

"The ocean of suffering is immense, but if you turn around you can see the land. The seed of suffering in you may be strong, but don't wait until you have no more suffering before allowing yourself to be happy. When one tree in the garden is sick, you have to care for it. But don't overlook all the healthy trees. Even while you have pain in your heart, you can enjoy the many wonders of life - the beautiful sunset, the smile of a child, the many flowers and trees. To suffer is not enough. Please don't be imprisoned by your suffering."

- The Heart Of the Buddha's Teaching, By Thich Nhat Hanh