Like us on Five Positive Behaviors for Promoting Healthy Youth Development
To develop the “whole health” of youth and young adults, it is not enough to
address health risks. We must also make youth aware of the benefits associated
with behaviors that enhance a healthy lifestyle. Encourage the young people in your life to:
#1:
Get Regular Physical Activity & Be Fit
Key
behaviors include physical activity, sports, and physical or athletic skills
development. Sports and physical activities such as walking, running, swimming,
throwing and kicking a ball, dancing, etc., can be fun and develop a self-image
of physical and athletic competence as well as strengthen muscles and increase
stamina. At the same time, it is critical to avoid alcohol, tobacco and drug
use that can interfere with desire, motivation, and ability to be active, learn
and execute complicated physical skills, and experience success in
athletics.
#2:
Eat Mostly Nutritious Foods & Be Healthy
Behaviors
associated with healthy nutrition include eating a well-balanced breakfast to
start out the day, and eating a diet consisting primarily of healthy foods, like
getting five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables, and eating lean protein
and whole grain foods daily. It also means avoiding too many fast, highly
processed, and “junk” foods and beverages which have excessive sugar, fat, or
calories.
Behaviors
linked to getting adequate and sound sleep include practicing a relaxing bedtime
ritual, going to bed the same time each day, turning off all electronics at
bedtime, and getting at least eight hours of sleep each night. Avoiding
alcohol, tobacco and caffeine which can interfere with sound sleep is also
critical to getting to sleep quickly and enjoying deep, rejuvenating
sleep.
#4:
Practice Regular Relaxation & Be Calm
Practicing
regular relaxation includes behaviors such as doing deep breathing or yoga,
placing yourself in a quiet environment, listening to soothing music or sounds,
and communicating regularly with supportive friends and family. It also means
avoiding unnecessary stress such as fighting, arguing, and negative situations
with friends, family, and others.
#5:
Practice Spiritual Habits & Be Positive
Practicing
spiritual habits include praying, meditating, participating in religious
services or activities, and reaching out to help others.
Thank you to Prevention Plus Wellness for
content for this article. Click here to view the
original Prevention
Plus Wellness blog.
Monthly Messages are brought to you
by:
The Community Coalition for Healthy Youth
Each monthly message is provided by
coalition board members. If you have further questions or comments about this
message or would like information on how to become involved with the Community
Coalition for Healthy Youth, please email ahendrix@tompkins-co.org
Thank you in advance for sharing
this monthly message with all of your networks.
Community Coalition for Healthy Youth
c/o Tompkins County Youth Services Dept.
320 W. State/MLK Jr.
Street
Ithaca, NY 14850