The Leeds, Grenville and Lanark District Health Unit is tackling the way we look at & talk about ourselves.
In an effort to support their mantra of Healthy Bodies and Healthy Minds, health officials are trying to change the way we think about what it means to look healthy. The idea is to shift the focus from weight to overall health by promoting balanced eating, regular physical activity, and mental well being for everyone.
The Health Unit is also reminding us that healthy bodies come in all shapes and sizes and when we compare ourselves, we can inadvertently send the wrong message to children who are always watching and listening.
Words and attitudes about weight are often negative, and blame personal lifestyle choices or lack of willpower. Such views can cause discrimination and stigma. This can lead to: poor body image, low self-esteem, anxiety/depression and eating disorders.
If you’d like to learn more about what you can do to change the way you and your family view a healthy body and mind, click this link.