Women’s Health Week starts on September 3 with the theme of “Put Yourself First”.
Lyn Pagan from the Blue Mountains Women’s Health and Resource Centre (BMWHRC) said research shows that women do not put themselves first.
“This is for a variety of reasons including being too tired, too busy and just not preferencing their own health. They are much more likely to look after others than themselves,” she said.
“Ignoring their own health is manifested in many ways. They may not have the health checks they need to have or make time to exercise or eat well. Or they simply don’t take the time to stop and relax. Whilst these reasons are understandable, their own health may suffer in the long run.”
The BMWRC is offering two very different activities as a means of encouraging women to put themselves first. Both events will be held on Friday, September 7.
Dr Rhonda Barringham is providing a menopause information session at the BMWHRC (124 Lurline Street Katoomba). She will cover such things as dealing with symptoms of menopause, the role of hormone therapy and how menopause can affect the brain and heart.
The BMWHRC is also partnering with Springwood Neighbourhood Centre at the Blue Mountains Hub in Macquarie Road, Springwood to provide a session on baby massage for mothers whose babies are under 9 months old.
“It may be strange to be offering baby massage under the guise of women putting themselves first,” said Imelda Eames from SNC. “However, as every mother knows, if their baby is relaxed, it has a huge impact on their own health and well being. Baby massage can promote better sleep, relieve colic and aid digestion”.
Women need to bring a towel for their baby to lie on. As part of the session, there will also be scope for women to tell the BMWHRC and the SNCC what events/ groups/ activities that could help them in the future.
Both sessions are free and bookings are essential. Morning tea is available. The menopause session is from 11am–12.30 pm and the baby massage is 9.30am–noon. Phone 4782 5133 to book or to get more information.