<![CDATA[Mission Healthy Living News and Updates]]> <![CDATA[Prescription for Health]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Prescription-for-Health Fri, 05 Apr 2013 16:00:00 GMT  

The weather is finally warmer, the flowers are blooming and the trees are starting to bud. These are all signs that spring has sprung. Doesn’t it just make you want to get outside and get active? Research proves that exercise plays an active role in treatment and prevention of more than 40 chronic diseases. It can also be an active complement to traditional medical intervention. Many doctors are actually prescribing “exercise” as part of their patient’s medical treatment.
 
There are many different options you can choose from to be active and healthy. The area is dotted with over 100 park and trail locations that provide a variety of amenities.
 
Warwick County Park in Chester County is one of the many locations that offer access to numerous trails and meadows that offer bountiful opportunities for outdoor exercise. Whether your exercise level is easy, moderate, or difficult, there is something available for you. Age-appropriate play areas, a sand volleyball court, and horseshoe pits round out the offerings at Warwick County Park.
 
Check out the website, or call today for your “Prescription for Health”.
 
For a list of other parks and recreation areas near you, click here
]]> <![CDATA[National Nutrition Month]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/National-Nutrition-Month Tue, 19 Mar 2013 12:35:00 GMT  

There are lots of great resources available to guide you to a healthier lifestyle. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, foods choices are made based on lifestyle, food preferences, ethical and cultural customs. A common misconception is that you need to “give up” your favorite foods in order to have a healthy diet. However, it is more important to develop a healthy and “balanced” eating plan that incorporates a variety of foods  that can include your personal favorites.
 
Some common tips to eat healthfully are:
·         Vary your veggies, fruits and protein sources to receive a wide range of nutrients.
·         Go for the whole grains, and select low-fat or fat-free dairy items
·         Think “portion control”. Keep your portion size reasonable and do not go back for seconds.
·         Eat plenty of foods and beverages that include potassium, vitamin D and calcium.
 
For more nutritional tips visit www.ChooseMyPlate.gov.
]]> <![CDATA[Walking is the KEY to good health]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Walking-is-the-KEY-to-good-health Mon, 18 Mar 2013 11:05:00 GMT Boyertown residents are getting geared up to walk from Boyertown to Key West. Why don't you join the fun? Kick off your walking season with eight (8) weeks to healthy change.The program will take walkers to sunny Florida and the tip of Key West!

Get a team together and get ready to start the journey from April 1st to May 26th.  Work together as a team and motivate each other to walk and log 10,000 steps per day, which is needed to reach the Key West goal in eight weeks. Remember... the greater goal is to increase your daily fitness during the spring and implement it during the rest of the year.

Teams can consist of 6-8 team members. The cost is $10.00 per person. Grand prizes will be given to the team that reaches Key West first. The top three participants who diligently put in their numbers every day, regardless of the amount, will be entered into a random drawing of weekly participants who are working hard and logging miles.

Registration begins Friday, March 15th on the Boyertown Area Wellness Council website.

]]> <![CDATA[8th Annual Boyertown Wellness Fair]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/8th-Annual-Boyertown-Wellness-Fair Mon, 11 Mar 2013 16:05:00 GMT  

8th Annual Boyertown Wellness Fair
Saturday, March 23, 2013
10 am - 1 pm
Boyertown Area Sr. High School, 120 North Monroe Street, Boyertown , PA 19512
 
·         FREE FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!!!!!!!
·         Healthy snacks including our Kids’ Celebrity Chef Cook-off finalists with great recipes such as Tangy Fruit Salsa and Veggie Pizza come vote for your favorite.
·         Live Demonstrations by Master Kim’s Black Belt Academy, Dr. Drill, the Boyertown Area YMCA, and Strength in Motion
·         Fitness fun by N-Motion Fitness, Greater Pottstown Tennis Association and Tri-County Hoops and Basketball Association
·         Running of the Bears walking competition starts at 9:30 and runs for 1 hour – this year the Running of the Bears race will also be collecting donations for JDRF (formally Juvenile Diabetes Research Fund) to help raise money for type 1 Diabetes
·         Don’t miss this great community day!
 
Brought to you by the Boyertown Area Community Wellness Council
 
For more information contact Carla Haydt at 215-292-5866
]]> <![CDATA[Foundation awards over $691,000 in grant dollars]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Foundation-awards-over-691000-in-grant-dollars Wed, 30 Jan 2013 16:00:00 GMT  

“The Foundation consistently receives creative and innovative grant applications that are in line with our mission to enhance the health and wellness of area residents,” comments Dave Kraybill, Executive Director, Pottstown Area Health & Wellness Foundation. “These grant dollars provide the resources to area schools and organizations which allows them to collectively work towards moving the dial to a healthier community.”
The following list identifies the 31 organizations receiving funding during our most recent grant round:
 
PRIORITY #1A: Promoting healthy living through nutrition, activities and programs in public and private schools to reduce obesity and encourage healthy living. $58,105 awarded to support the following six projects:
 
  1. Brookeside Montessori – Growing Up Fit
  2. Daniel Boone Area School District – Healthy for a Lifetime program
  3. Falkner Swamp Nursery School, Inc. – Health & Wellness program
  4. Pottsgrove School District – Wellness Committee Director
  5. St. Aloysius School – “Steps To a Healthier You—Fitness and Nutrition”
  6. West-Mont Christian Academy – Healthy Snack/Lunch Program Extension
 
PRIORITY #1B: Improving parks, programming and the built environment to increase access to physical activity. $60,000 awarded to support the following three projects
 
  1. Borough of Pottstown – Manatawny Gateway
  2. Boyertown Rotary Foundation – Fenstermacher Fitness Campus—Phase II
  3. Royersford Borough – Third Avenue Basketball Court Renovation
 
PRIORITY #1C: Creating and promoting social networks involving healthy living. $152,250 awarded to support the following nine projects:
 
  1. Boyertown Area Community Wellness Council – Steps to a Healthier Community—2013
  2. Centrol Cultural Latinos Unidos, Inc. – Fun & Fitness Education program
  3. Chester County 4-H – After-School & Summer Programs at Park Springs Apartments
  4. Child, Home & Community – Adolescent Prenatal, Parenting and Support Continuum in Pottstown
  5. Friendship House – The Parent-Child Home program
  6. KenCrest Centers – Resources and Education for Achieving Complete Health
(REACH 4)
  1. Pottstown Area Police Athletic League – PAL Operating Program
  2. Pottstown Family Center (Family Services of Montgomery County) – Eat Smart, Play More (ESPM)
  3. Triskeles Foundation – Food for Thought/Green Intern Program
 
PRIORITY #2: Funding programs for physical health and emotional well-being. $343,325 awarded to support the following ten projects:
 
  1. Camphill Village Kimberton Hills – Aging in Community
  2. Carson Valley Children’s Aid – Women’s Voices, Healthy Choices
  3. Child Advocacy Center of Montgomery County – Mission Kids—Continued Expansion of Mission Kids’ Victim/Family Advocate Program
  4. Creative Health Services – Collaborative Family & Childhood Obesity Program
  5. Family Services of Montgomery County – Project HEARTH (Helping Elderly Adults Remain in Their Homes)
  6. Montgomery County Community College Foundation – Dental Sealant Day
  7. Pennsylvania State University Philanthropic Fund – Dining with Diabetes
  8. Perkiomen Valley School District – Construction of Climbing Wall (matching grant)
  9. Pottstown Area Seniors’ Center – Enhancing Prime Time Health for Seniors
  10. Visiting Nurse Association Community Services, Inc. – Personal Navigator Program with Expanded Legal Support Services
 
PRIORITY #3: Funding learning opportunities and strategic planning to strengthen non-profits. $78,000 awarded to support the following three projects:
  1. Montgomery County Planning Commission – Montgomery County 2015 Comprehensive Plan Update
  2. Pottstown Cluster of Religious Communities – Strategic Planning
  3. Preservation Pottstown, Inc. – Community Gardens

About the Foundation: The Pottstown Area Health & Wellness Foundation’s mission is to enhance the health and wellness of area residents, providing education, funding and programs that motivate people to adopt healthy lifestyles. Visit www.pottstownfoundation.org for more information about the Foundation. Discover Pottstown area's online community at www.missionhealthyliving.org to learn and share great information on how to lead a healthier life! You can also follow Mission Healthy Living on Facebook and Twitter

]]> <![CDATA[Kids and Out-of-School Time]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Kids-and-OutofSchool-Time Mon, 28 Jan 2013 12:55:00 GMT  

Is your child receiving opportunities for activity before and after school, and during school breaks? Rather than allowing easy access to “screen” time, plan for your child to have access to local parks and trails, or contact your local YMCA, YWCA or Boys and Girls Club to find programs appropriate for your child.
 

Many residents are unaware of the wonderful parks and recreational areas available in their own community. Some of which may practially be in your own back yard. For a list of all the local parks and recreation opporutnities near you, click on Mission Healthy Living’s Fun & Fitness tab .

Click here for additional information to creating a "healthier generation."

]]> <![CDATA[Create a healthier school]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Create-a-healthier-school Mon, 21 Jan 2013 09:55:00 GMT  

Kids spend a large part of their day at school. Does your school have a Healthy Schools Program? Do they have an active Wellness Council that provides support and learning opportunities for the students in developing a healthy and active lifestyle?
 
Click here to learn more about the Alliance for a Healthier Generation’s Healthy Schools Program. Schools should become an extension of the positive lifestyle changes you are instilling in your child for healthy living. Become involved with your child’s school.
]]> <![CDATA[Do Something For Your Kids]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Do-Something-For-Your-Kids Mon, 14 Jan 2013 10:15:00 GMT  

Your children are learning new habits or strengthening old ones every day. Children learn by example, and the home is the greatest influence in developing a healthy and active lifestyle.
 
Teaching the importance of a healthy diet and including them in the process of meal planning and preparation provide the basis to developing healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.
 
Planning for family activities at the local parks, bike rides on a local trail, or dancing in the kitchen while preparing meals, will all encourage movement.
 
Click here for further ideas on how you can get your kids involved.
 
Check out the Fun & Fitness section for local parks and trails to visit on your next family outing.
]]> <![CDATA[Start the New Year off right!]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Start-the-New-Year-off-right Mon, 07 Jan 2013 11:30:00 GMT  

Start the New Year off right!
 
Did you start the New Year with a resolution? Are you still on track? You may want to consider a “little health every day”, rather than a daunting goal for a major change that can be overwhelming.
 
According to the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, the key is to focus on small steps every day with a few simple goals. You will be sure to see results in the long run.
 
First, begin with YOU. Become a “better health model” by setting a good example for your kids. Where to begin? Try these few simple steps:
 
  • Make gradual changes
  • Balance bad habits with good ones
  • Start walking
  • Drink more water and less soda
  • Listen to when you’re full
  • Grocery shop on a full stomach
  • Slow down
  • Be positive
  • Focus on the why as well as the how
 
For more detail on how to make these simple steps work for you, click here.
]]> <![CDATA[Simple and practical holiday tips]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Simple-and-practical-holiday-tips Mon, 10 Dec 2012 08:45:00 GMT  

The holiday season is without a doubt one of the most challenging times of the year in terms of temptations.  They are all around us; holiday parties with huge spreads, people bringing in tins of cookies to the office, coffee shops' seasonal selections, etc. 
 
It is no wonder that many of us find this time of the year the most difficult to maintain our weight. However, here are a few tricks you can use to avoid some of the pitfalls of the holiday season.
 
1.  Pick your favorite:  Although we think just having a little of this and a little of that saves on calories, we often underestimate just how much all those little bites add up to.  Instead of indulging in a little of EVERYTHING, pick your favorite item or two and have a normal serving of it.
 
2.  Drink before you eat:  Don't get too excited, I'm not talking about alcohol, or that calorie laden eggnog!  Before you hit the buffet table or sit down for you holiday meal drink 1-2 glasses of water.  This will help fill you up so that you are less likely to overeat.
 
3.  Fit in exercise:  I think even more so than doing it to "burn off calories", exercising after a big meal helps you mentally get back on track with your healthy habits.  If you indulge and let it be followed by feelings of guilt, you are fostering an unhealthy cycle.  Get in a good sweat the very next day to mark that you are back on track.
 
4.  Carry healthy snacks with you:  If you know you are going to be out all day shopping, running errands, or even traveling for the holidays, make sure to have some healthy snacks on hand.  Not only is it difficult to find many healthy options on the go, but letting yourself go hours without eating can lead to overeating later on.
 
5.  Distract yourself:  Instead of hanging around the buffet table or picking at things in the kitchen, distract yourself by going for a walk, playing a game, or even volunteering to do the dishes!  Removing yourself from the temptations makes it a lot easier to say no.
 
Here's to a very healthy & happy holiday season!
]]> <![CDATA[December is Safe Toys and Gifts Month]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/December-is-Safe-Toys-and-Gifts-Month Thu, 06 Dec 2012 13:05:00 GMT  

“I want an official Red Ryder, carbine action, two-hundred shot range model air rifle!”  “No, Ralphie, you’ll shoot your eye out!”

 
You’re probably familiar with this quote from the 1983 movie, “A Christmas Story.” Nine-year-old Ralphie asks for a BB gun for Christmas, only to find out that the present he’s been pining for may not be age-appropriate. While this movie is quite comical, it does bring up a good point. During this time of year, when many Americans celebrate holidays in which there is gift-giving involved, the safety of those gifts is important, especially for anyone giving gifts to children. That’s why we celebrate Safe Toys and Gifts Month in December.
 
There are age ranges and safety precautions on the boxes for a reason. Just because your four-year-old has his eyes on some robotic dog in the store doesn’t mean it’s what you should get him—especially if the box says it’s for children five years and older. Toys for older children may have smaller parts, sharper edges and may be made of more flammable materials. For reasons such as these, it’s important to read everything written on the box before purchasing a toy.
 
Another element to gift safety takes place on the day the present is opened. It’s crucial that parents and guardians fully explain or demonstrate how to use a specific gift before it’s handed over to the child. That way, you eliminate any future breakage, misuse or frustration. Although your child may be anxious to get the gift back into his or her hands, you will thank yourself later when the toy stays in one piece and your child has been playing with it safely for weeks.
 
During this time of year, it’s easy to get caught up in great sales and exciting advertisements. But for the sake of your little family member or friend, practice toy and gift safety!
]]> <![CDATA[Healthy Thanksgiving Options]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Healthy-Thanksgiving-Options Wed, 21 Nov 2012 15:55:00 GMT The American Heart Association and the Alliance for a Healthier Generation offer the following tips to make the Thanksgiving meal healthy and delicious. Many of the traditional foods served during Thanksgiving can be healthy — a simple trick is to not load on the butter, cream and sugar.

 
For many people, more than half of annual weight gain occurs between Thanksgiving and New Year’s. Some studies say the average American puts on up to five to seven pounds in these few weeks. To avoid seasonal weight gain, fill your plate with veggies first and watch your portion sizes of the calorie-heavy foods.
 
Try the following tips to ensure a healthy and delicious Thanksgiving meal:
 
1. Start small. When it comes to Thanksgiving, the biggest concern is not just what you are eating, but how much of it you are eating. Aim to have small portions of those foods that are high in calories, such as casseroles and desserts, while filling up on lighter fare such as vegetables and lean turkey.
 
2. Turkey is a great source of lean protein and is healthiest if you skip the skin and go for the white meat. If you prefer the dark meat, mix and match in order to get a little extra flavor without adding too much fat.
 
3. Sweet potatoes are a source of vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber that can make a tasty side dish or dessert. A healthy way to cook them is to cut them in half, sprinkle with orange juice and a little brown sugar, and pop them into the oven.
 
4. Canned cranberries are packed with antioxidants that can help keep you healthy. Unfortunately, canned cranberry sauce is often also packed with sugar and calories you don’t need. Try making your own by mashing fresh cranberries with a generous splash of balsamic vinegar or apple juice concentrate.
 
5. Pumpkin is low in fat, low in calories, and loaded with potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Make pumpkin pies with canned evaporated fat-free milk, half the amount of sugar in the recipe, a graham cracker crust, and light or fat-free whipped topping for a light and tasty dessert.
 
6. Opt for less bread in your stuffing and add more onions, celery, vegetables, or fruits such as dried cranberries or apples to make a lower calorie version of the old standby. Try using whole wheat bread in order to make it an even healthier option.
 
7. Baked apples, poached pears, or roasted stone fruit are perfect, light ways to end any autumn meal.
 
8. Avoid greasy gravy by using a fat separator or refrigerating the pan juices and skimming the fat off before making the gravy. This can cut out a significant amount of fat.
 
9. Use low-fat buttermilk or low-sodium chicken stock in place of cream or whole milk in dishes like mashed potatoes, whipped sweet potatoes, or butternut squash. You’ll achieve a creamy consistency and loads a flavor, minus the unnecessary fat and calories.
 
10. Try sneaking in more low-calorie vegetables by mashing or pureeing steamed or boiled cauliflower with low-fat milk. It’s a flavorful substitute for mashed potatoes and can help balance an otherwise potato-rich meal.
 
11. Fall veggies such as squash and green beans are great side dishes that can add color and variety to the meal without adding too many extra calories.
]]> <![CDATA[Donate Blood and Save a Life]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Donate-Blood-and-Save-a-Life Mon, 19 Nov 2012 14:15:00 GMT  A prematurely born baby. A father after a motorcycle accident. A four-year-old diagnosed with leukemia. A mother after a C-section operation. A victim of a random gun shooting. These are the people who you are saving by donating blood.

 
If you have ever donated blood before, you have probably heard of Miller-Keystone Blood Center. This is an independent, non-profit organization that serves as the only blood provider to 24 hospitals in local counties like Berks, Bucks, Chester, Montgomery and Philadelphia.
 
As recognized by Miller-Keystone Blood Center in the establishment of this organization, donated blood can save the lives of many. They highlight some very touching stories on their website. Take that of Alicia Rodriguez:
 
“In early 2003, I was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). This is a very aggressive form of cancer and completely took over my body in a matter of days. I was placed at St. Christopher's Childrens Hospital in Philadelphia for four months straight. During this time, I received a brutal assortment of experimental chemotherapy, which left my body completely drained. It soon became necessary for me to receive blood transfusions almost every day. My blood counts were so low that I needed just as many platelet transfusions as blood, but the platelets were harder to come by. It was a long uphill battle for me to overcome this debilitating disease, but with help from the good people who decided to take time out of their busy lives to donate blood, I am now a healthy, 21-year-old full-time student."
 
Moved by this story? Donate.
 
While Miller-Keystone Blood Center does not have any donor centers in the immediate area, the Miller-Keystone Blood Mobile is always on the move. Click here to find a Miller-Keystone Blood Mobile in your area.
]]> <![CDATA[National Healthy Skin Month]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/National-Healthy-Skin-Month Mon, 05 Nov 2012 13:30:00 GMT Most people are very conscious about their skin during the summer, afraid of the sun doing damage. So then why has November been declared National Healthy Skin Month? To help prepare you for the long, cold winter months ahead!

 You may like the rosy-cheeked look that the wind and sun shining off the freshly fallen snow may give your cheeks. But remember, your skin is pink because it’s irritated! WebMD highlights 10 ways to take care of your skin during this winter months:
 
1.       Seek a skin specialist. Even if you don’t go for regular visits, seeking out the advice of a dermatologist just once can prevent you from wasting money on products that aren’t right for your skin type.
2.       Moisturize more. Though you may be moisturizing during the warmer months when more of your skin is exposed, it’s important to keep up that regimen during the colder months as well.
3.       Slather on the sunscreen. Yes, it’s important to protect your skin year-round, not just when you’re at the beach in a bikini.
4.       Give your hands a hand. Don’t forget your gloves when you go out in the cold!
5.       Avoid wet gloves and socks.
6.       Hook up the humidifier. The air blasting from the heater may be warm, but it’s also very dry.
7.       Hydrate for your health, not for your skin. That cold glass of water may have looked much more appealing during the hot months of summer, but it’s just as important to stay hydrated during the cold months of winter.
8.       Grease up your feet. Even though your feet aren’t being directly hit by the cold, it’s crucial to keep them moisturized as well.
9.       Pace the peels. Try to stay away from using harsher products, such as face peels, during this time.
10.   Ban superhot baths.
 
Click here to read more.
]]> <![CDATA[Benefits of Vegetarianism]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Benefits-of-Vegetarianism Tue, 16 Oct 2012 09:55:00 GMT Are you thinking about becoming a vegetarian? Many people say, “No way, I like meat too much!” But there may be some benefits to a vegetarian diet that could do you some good.

The Vegetarian Times, the world’s largest collection of vegetarian recipes, highlights some of the best reasons out there. Vegetarians consume more fiber and antioxidants while taking in less cholesterol and no animal fat. This helps you feel more energized during the day, and this kind of diet keeps your bowel movements regular. Additionally, being a vegetarian has been proven an effective way to help prevent coronary artery disease.
 
And did you know that disease-fighting phytochemicals are what give fruits and vegetables their color? Cooking a meal with lots of color is a good way to ensure you’re enjoying a healthy diet—and the varied color makes your plate look more appealing! Head to the Vegetarian Times’ website (www.vegetariantimes.com) to find more health benefits and to browse through their seemingly never-ending list of vegetarian recipes. 
 
So maybe you don’t have to cut meat entirely from your life. But after learning about some of the health benefits, aren’t you at least inspired to designate one night a week to trying vegetarianism? Or are you more motivated to make a vegetable side dish part of every meal? A great place to help you make this happen would be Janet’s Nutritional Foods in Pottstown. Located at 26 South Charlotte Street, Janet’s offers a variety of vegetarian—and even vegan—frozen, canned and boxed items. Let Janet’s Nutritional Foods help you plan your first vegetarian meal today, and check out the rest of the store’s offerings while you’re there! Your body will thank you—tomorrow and for years to come.
]]> <![CDATA[National Breast Cancer Awareness Month]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/National-Breast-Cancer-Awareness-Month Mon, 08 Oct 2012 08:10:00 GMT About one in eight women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. With a statistic like this, it’s not hard to believe that aside from skin cancer, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among American women.* Because breast cancer is so prevalent as compared to other diseases, most Americans are affected by it in some way.

We recognize October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month to acknowledge those who are currently fighting breast cancer, those who have survived breast cancer and those who have lost their lives to breast cancer. We also recognize National Breast Cancer Awareness Month because it’s very important to help educate Americans about breast cancer’s symptoms and treatments as well as other day-to-day matters relevant to the disease. 
 
The mammogram is one breast cancer topic that many women need more education about. According to breastcancer.org, mammograms are probably the most important tool doctors have, not only to screen for breast cancer, but also to diagnose, evaluate and follow people who’ve had breast cancer. But while a mammogram has the ability to save your life, it doesn’t come without risks. Breastcancer.org provides information about both the benefits and risks of mammograms: http://www.breastcancer.org/symptoms/testing/types/mammograms/benefits_risks.jsp. Your doctor should be your next resource, and he or she will be able to answer all of your questions.
 
]]> <![CDATA[October 3 is Walk to School Day]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/October-3-is-Walk-to-School-Day Tue, 02 Oct 2012 15:15:00 GMT Students, parents and community members across the country will be improving their health by walking and biking to school on October 3rd.  According to The National Center for Safe Routes to School, "This one-day event is part of an international effort to encourage more families to get out of their cars and on to their feet to enjoy the many benefits of safely walking and bicycling to school."

To see if your school has registered as one of the U.S. schools participating in this event, click here:  www.walktoschool.org/who/index.cfm.  If not, check your school's website to see if they have scheduled their own activities. Participation and support grows each year and not only contributes to a healthier physical lifestyle, it also contributes to a healthier and cleaner environment by having less cars on the road.

So put away the car keys and put on your walking shoes. Let's get moving!!

]]> <![CDATA[Women's Health and Ftness Day]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Womens-Health-and-Ftness-Day Mon, 24 Sep 2012 14:10:00 GMT Wednesday, September 26th is National Women’s Health and Fitness Day! It is a day dedicated to women’s health awareness.

Although there is a spotlight on women’s health on this day in particular, a woman’s health should be one of her main focuses year-round. Mission Healthy Living is full of great links and information, which many women find useful in keeping up with their health. Browse through the rest of the site after you have finished reading about National Women’s Health and Fitness Day—it’ll be hard not to find a useful tip or trick, no matter where you go!
 
Another resource that can be of assistance is Healthy Woman of the Pottstown Memorial Medical Center. Healthy Woman not only offers free health education events and classes for women locally, but also provides lots of information to help women take care of themselves. Women’s health is the most obvious topic for discussion, but Healthy Woman can also help women in other parts of life that affect well-being, such as with financial, social, or spiritual goals. Because it is online, its accessibility makes it such a great resource—it’s there for you wherever you are, whenever you need it. Healthy Woman is free and easy to join. Follow this link to learn more, and to get started making yourself and your health a priority!
]]> <![CDATA[Healthy Aging Month]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Healthy-Aging-Month Mon, 17 Sep 2012 09:35:00 GMT Baseball player Satchel Paige once said, "How old would you be if you didn't know how old you are?"

While many would say they feel young at heart, the trick is trying to get your body to feel the same way. As you get older, it becomes more obvious how important it is to take care of yourself. September is Healthy Aging Month. This month is dedicated to not only celebrating growing older but also learning how to best take care of yourself once you do begin aging (and for years to come). There are many resources for older adults looking to keep their bodies in the best working condition:
 
Pottstown Area Seniors’ Center offers a variety of services and activities that promote healthy aging. Try a line dancing class as a new way to add physical activity, or purchase fruits and vegetables through the Center from the local Farmer’s Market. Stop by the Pottstown Area Seniors’ Center on any weekday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for a tour of the facilities and to find out more. Follow this link for directions: http://greaterpasc.com/home/contact-and-directions/. 
 
Another local resource is Senior Circle, a national nonprofit organization that works to enhance the lives of those 50 years of age or older. Membership in this organization gives you access to a wide selection of benefits, including, but not limited to, discounts, exercise, wellness classes, and a national publication subscription. Pottstown Memorial Medical Center recognizes this organization and provides a variety of these offerings on location. You can either visit Senior Circle’s website or the Pottstown Memorial Medical Center’s page to learn more about the program.
 
Age is just a number—especially if you make a habit of living well! 
]]> <![CDATA[Childhood Cancer Awareness Month]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Childhood-Cancer-Awareness-Month Mon, 10 Sep 2012 08:25:00 GMT In 2000, 4-year-old cancer patient Alexandra “Alex” Scott announced that she wanted to have a lemonade stand to raise money to help find a cure for all children with cancer. On the first day, Alex and her older brother Patrick raised an incredible $2,000. Alex continued to set up a lemonade stand every year until she passed in 2004. In 2005, her parents started Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation to continue the work that Alex began. Since Alex first opened up her lemonade stand in 2000, she and her foundation have raised more than $55 million to fund education for those looking to learn more about, as well as to find a cure for, childhood cancer. 

 In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, check out this inspiring organization’s website to learn more about their mission and about the disease that affects about 14 in 100,000 children in the United States each year.*: http://www.alexslemonade.org/about. Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation even makes it easy to get involved—whether that means volunteering at a local event or hosting one of your own. 
 
*According to kidshealth.org.
]]> <![CDATA[National Yoga Awareness Month]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/National-Yoga-Awareness-Month Thu, 06 Sep 2012 08:05:00 GMT Bending your body into impossible positions. Sitting in silence for long periods of time. Some people seem to have the wrong impression of yoga. But September is National Yoga Awareness Month—time to get a better understanding of the practice, and maybe even give it a try! 

Adding yoga to your weekly routine has many health benefits. WebMD highlights a variety of them: yoga can help you relax as well as develop your flexibility, strength, and balance. And after much practice, you can improve your lung capacity and heart health. Read more at http://www.webmd.com/balance/the-health-benefits-of-yoga.
 
Besides stating its health benefits, however, WebMD’s yoga page also advises that you take the practice of yoga very seriously. If done incorrectly, there can be some risks. Most professionals advise that you try yoga with a practiced instructor, especially if you are a beginner. 
 
The High Street Yoga and Wellness Center of Pottstown offers classes year-round. Instructor Barbara sees yoga as an activity for everyone—not based on age or level of fitness. So what excuse do you have that is preventing you to give it a try? You can find their weekly schedule at http://highstreetyoga.vpweb.com/About-Us.html.
 
National Yoga Awareness Month is the perfect reason to cure your curiosity—learn more about the benefits of yoga and give this long-practiced activity a shot! Namaste.
]]> <![CDATA[National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/National-Childhood-Obesity-Awareness-Month Tue, 04 Sep 2012 08:10:00 GMT In September of 2010, we recognized the first-ever National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, as declared by President Obama and the U.S. Congress. The statistics alarmed them, causing them to create this health awareness observance. More than 23 million children and teenagers in the United States are obese or overweight. Childhood obesity puts nearly one third of America’s children at early risk for Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and even stroke. The website that was created to promote this cause has become a great resource for anything related to childhood obesity: http://www.healthierkidsbrighterfutures.org/.

 Among many suggestions about how to promote a healthy lifestyle among kids is getting them to be active. But, with your kids heading back to school, their endless hours of summer have officially come and gone, along with their free time during which they were often on the move. Getting active with your kids is a great excuse to spend extra time with them, though—and with their limited time, there’s no place better to do it than locally. 
 
Pottstown Area Health and Wellness Foundation has mapped out more than 100 local parks and centers of activity in the Fun and Fitness section of their website. Find your family’s new favorite spot; search by location, by activity, or by cost—although most of the offerings highlighted on this map are free. Grab a soccer ball or your roller skates. Maybe go for a bike ride. You can even teach your kids some healthy eating habits by packing a fresh picnic lunch! Starting this September, join the rest of the nation in promoting a healthy lifestyle in kids so that they can grow up fit and continue to live well!
]]> <![CDATA[It's Time to Pick Your Own...]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Its-Time-to-Pick-Your-Own Fri, 31 Aug 2012 16:00:00 GMT Have you ever been to your local grocery store or farmer’s market and wondered how the produce you were buying got to those shelves? Did you picture the farmer picking the fruit out of the tree or the vegetable off of the vine and ask yourself what happened next? Well if you take advantage of Frecon Farms’ Pick Your Own program, you won’t have to speculate as to how your fruit got from the farm to you—because you’ll be the one picking, transporting and washing it!

For three generations, Frecon Farms has been providing locally grown fruits and vegetables to the people of Boyertown and the surrounding community. They’ve been connected with the community by selling their pickings—and other items made from their produce—in both their retail and online store as well as in farmer's markets. Every fall, they open up their farm for you to pick varieties of cherries, apples, pears, pumpkins, and raspberries as they ripen. It’s a great opportunity for you to get your kids excited about eating fruits and vegetables. Nothing is cooler than eating something you picked yourself! Along with their Pick Your Own program, Frecon Farms also hosts the annual Pickfest Bluegrass Festival—a great combination of music and fresh produce!
 
Visit their website (www.freconfarms.com) for details and a full schedule of events.
]]> <![CDATA[Take the Stress out of School Lunches]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/Take-the-Stress-out-of-School-Lunches Mon, 27 Aug 2012 08:30:00 GMT The cafeteria can be an intimidating place, especially for your younger ones—there are lots of new faces they might not see on a regular basis, they don’t know where they’re going to sit, and they’re unsure if their friends will be in their lunch period. The last thing your kids will be worrying about is if their lunch is healthy or not! That’s where you come in.

Your son or daughter may choose to buy lunch because they like the feeling of being independent. You can still have a hand in what they’re eating, though! Most schools post the entire month’s worth of meal options on their website ahead of time. The night before, take a look at the following day’s choices with your child and help him or her choose the most appealing and most nutritious option. Encouraging your child to eat a well-balanced meal can also be made easier if you’re setting an example by serving that kind of meal at home.
 
Packing your son’s or daughter’s lunch gives you much more control. With this option, there’s not a chance that the only healthy option being served is an item your child doesn’t like. Instead, you can take into consideration what healthy options your child enjoys and make sure they’re included. ABC News provides an in-depth healthy school lunch guide: http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Parenting/healthy-school-lunch-choices-children-back-school/story?id=11411787. Check out their suggestions so you can offer your child something more exciting than a PB&J and chocolate milk. 
 
Your child’s lunch period may already be a source of anxiety for them. So take the stress out of it, for both your child and you, by ensuring your son or daughter is eating the right foods that will keep them feeling strong and energized enough to take on whatever else may come their way in the lunch room!
]]> <![CDATA[National Immunization Awareness Month]]> http://www.missionhealthyliving.org/content/post/National-Immunization-Awareness-Month Thu, 23 Aug 2012 09:45:00 GMT No one is a fan of getting shots—but chances are you will dislike more what you may contract if you aren’t up to date with your vaccines. August is National Immunization Awareness Month. With kids about to head back to school or off to college, this couldn’t be a more crucial time to make sure your kids are up to date with their vaccinations. 

But children aren’t the only ones who need vaccines. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of adult deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases is increasing every year. Not sure how to tell whether you’ve had all your shots? Although your doctor will have all the answers, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s website is also a great place to start to get some of your most basic questions answered:  http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vac-gen/10-shouldknow.htm.
 
After some research using the resources suggested above, you will know exactly what services you’re in need of—and the Community Health and Dental Care (CHDC) just may have them. According to their website, the goal of CHDC is to provide affordable, accessible and quality healthcare to all regardless of a patient’s insurance status. They are located on Robinson Street in Pottstown, where they are proud to offer services like children’s immunizations and flu shots. Visit their website for more information on their offerings (www.ch-dc.org). Who knows? Maybe you’ll get a Disney movie-themed band aid and a lollipop with your shot if you ask nicely!
 
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