Citizens Memorial Hospital | Vitality | Spring 2021

Walking is one of the easiest ways to get the physical activity you need for good health. And now that the weather is warmer and the sun is out longer, it’s a lot more pleasant to do. wellness Dust off your walking shoes Walking is one of the easiest ways to get the physical activity you need for good health. And now that the weather is warmer and the sun is out longer, it’s a lot more pleasant to do. Health experts recommend that you get at least 30 minutes of moderately intense exercise most days of the week. You should aim for a total of 150 minutes per week. Walking at a brisk pace counts as a moderately intense activity. Stock up on sunscreen Since you’ll be spending more time outside, it’s especially important to remember to wear sunscreen to reduce your risk of skin cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that you buy sunscreen that has broad- spectrum protection, an SPF of 30 or higher, and is water-resistant. But don’t count on sunscreen alone to protect your skin. You should also: ● Seek shade whenever you can, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. ● Wear a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt; long pants; a wide-brimmed hat; and sunglasses whenever possible. Be safe while cleaning If spring has sparked the urge to clean up around your home, be sure to follow these basic safety precautions: ● When using a ladder, don’t lean too far on either side. Your belly button should not go beyond the sides of the ladder. ● Lift heavy items properly. Keep your back straight and lift with your legs. ● Cleaning the floor? Warn family members that the floor will be wet and slippery. ● Don’t clutter walkways or stairs with boxes, bags and other items people might trip over. ● Try not to carry too many items at one time. You should always be able to see over the load you are carrying so you don’t trip. ● Be sure not to mix cleaning products. This is especially true for ammonia and bleach, which combine to make toxic fumes. citizensmemorial.com 9