Those four magic numbers

 There are things we should know about ourselves. Lots of things for our peace of mind and our health.  There are four important numbers that are indicators of our health.

Blood Pressure

Blood Sugar

Cholesterol

Bone Density.

I am prompted to write about this because of renal failure in a close friend.  There were no symptoms, still aren't.  The only way that this diagnosis came to light was by way of blood tests. So now my friend is closely monitored.  She keeps a two litre jug of water on the bench in her kitchen. 

Even though the numbers can be pointers to potentially scary problems, it is so important to know.  Then, if we know, we can take steps. Information is power.

Be brave, find out your numbers.  You have two months.

Habit of the week

Start making the appointments necessary to find out this bio-marking numbers.

They call osteoporosis the silent thief and hypertension, the silent killer.   No thanks.  Information is power.  

Nordic Walking - Let's give it a go

 Nordic Walking Australia says 

"Using Nordic Walking poles combined with the correct technique engages all muscles from head to toe, which makes for a very effective aerobic activity, easier than regular walking and a perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors."

Why is Nordic Walking beneficial? 

Using the Nordic walking poles:-

• Means the addition of upper body strength and co ordination.
• Aids in balance - there are four points of contact
• Improves posture as we walk  -  Nordic walking encourages head-up walking
• Leads to strong, secure and confident walking.  Because the poles assist in balance, we can stride out more strongly and keep our eyes forward, instead of downwards.  

It might be time to dust off our hiking poles, if we are aging or nursing an injury.

Here is a link to a You Tube video which shows technique:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAmsHhc2zCw

Back Pain.....Oh no!

Here are some tips from Bob and Brad to help prevent and manage back pain.  It starts with Posture. A sore lower back is a terrible thing -  every move you make seems to hurt.   So check out the You Tube link below, or show it to someone with a bad back.

When we slump forward reading or looking at a screen, or just out of habit, we can aggravate our lower back.  No thank you.  

So let's reset our posture:-

•     by sitting up straight, even in the car.   Straighten up the back rest of your car seat. 
•     A chin glide - just slide your face gently backwards - while keeping your neck long
•     If you are bending, lifting walking, maintain good posture And switch on your core muscles.

Here is the link to the You Tube: -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6i8roQRP2U

It used to be said that if you have a sore back, go to bed for a week.  Now, we know we need to keep moving, best of all,  if we can get into a pool that will work wonders for a bad back.  Exercise is anti inflammatory.  Yes please.