The city of Somerville is doing something GREAT, not revolutionary, but still I applaud them for reinstating healthy, traditional ways of living. They are in the process of updating their infrastructure to encourage 'walk-pools' to work, and 'walking buses' to school (a parent or two walks the route picking up children on the way). Somerville is taking measures to eliminate trans fats from restaurant menus, add more fresh produce to school meals, and is investing in educational literature for their citizens.
Should we be thankful for the rising increase in obesity to launch such actions? I guess, but it would be better if, as a society, we could just do what is right and not wait until a problem occurs. Many human beings ignore good advice until bad habits are entrenched, and problems require monumental effort to unravel (usually costing more than an individual can bare, so that it falls to government to fix it). Choose to be different. Choose to be a trend setter, like Somerville and its citizens.
Look in your town. What does it already provide for a healthier lifestyle? Sidewalks? Bike trails? Dance programs? Sports teams? Clean water? Are the restaurants and stores selling healthy options and minimizing the junk? If so, spread the good word. Are the activities increasing the stamina, strength, and coordination of the town's folk? Make the good news travel so that the usage goes up and the service grows. If the health of your community is not such and needs improvement, take action!
Look at your way of living, also. Do you already have regular physical activities and healthy meals on which you can build? Be the example. Do what you think others should do. Take the stairs, park further away and walk the distance. Dance and play sports with your family.
Send the message that vegetables are yummy and they are not something we need to sneak into foods and drinks. Vegetables add color, texture, and nutrients, and are not just to counterbalance the junk food. The advice from my aunt rings true today: 'you can eat all you want if you just eat the right things.' Family gatherings can be just as joyous around healthy food. Celebrations can lead to a life of many more celebrations if good eating and physical activity are part of our every day life.
We all do better if we have a support system to sustain our endeavors. Rally your town government. Clear areas for outside play, walking, and biking. Petition the town bylaws to support healthy living standards. Gather your family around some basic action steps: Grocery shop and eat out better. Organize walk-pools and walking buses to your destinations. Get into dance class! These are simple ideas that Somerville, Ma has already started. Don't wait until there is a problem, or count on someone else to take action. Our society's trend toward obesity and low muscle tone did not happen in recent years. It has been a growing problem. It can be reversed if we continue our efforts over as much time. Creating a healthy lifestyle for your self is contagious and will lead to others following suit. Start today!
No comments:
Post a Comment