Did you know that Mother’s Day this past Sunday actually marked the first day of National Women’s Health Week? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health.  The goal of Women’s Health Week, May 11-17^th, is to empower women to take charge of their health, and most importantly, to make it a priority. This week is truly a great opportunity to understand what it means to be a well woman.

National Women’s Health Week is sending out the message that being a well woman is a state of mind. It’s about unlocking your potential to be as healthy as you can be, and being proactive in maintaining that health.

This week highlights 5 easy ways that women can improve their health.

1. Get active!

Did you know that just 30 to 60 minutes of moderate or high-intensity exercise can help decrease a women’s risk for breast cancer? Enjoy the weather by going out for a brisk walk, or wind down the day with some relaxing yoga. 

2. Eat healthy!

Fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables! People who eat more fruits and vegetables have a reduced risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.

3. Visit a health care professional to receive regular checkups and preventative screenings.

Did you know that almost 1 out 3 women do not visit a doctor because of cost? However, thanks to the Affordable Care Act, many health plans will cover an annual checkup at no cost.

4.  Avoid unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, texting while driving, and not wearing a seatbelt or bicycle helmet. Avoid risky behaviors to improve your health and that of others!

Did you know that at any given moment during the day across America, approximately 660,000 drivers are using cell phones while driving?

5. Pay attention to mental health, including getting enough sleep and managing stress.

Did you know that women are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder) than men? Mental health and physical health are connected! Take care of your mind and body by doing something you enjoy, like reading or going for a hike.

Want to learn more? Visit the National Women’s Health Week website for more facts and ways to connect with others in your area. Also, checkout the Presidential Proclamation for National Women’s Health Week 2014!

Want to get involved? Get on the map! Join me and other women across the country to take steps to healthier, happier, longer lives! Pledge to be a well woman today!

Make sure to spread the world on twitter by using the hashtags #NWHW and #WellWoman and tweeting at National Women’s Health Week @Womenshealth!