Economic upheavals continue to affect more than our pocketbooks. Sadly, as many as half of all women say they’re cutting back on healthcare provider visits to save money, according to a new survey from the National Women’s Health Resource Center.

Ironically, at the same time they’re pulling back, women are also telling pollsters that their overall health has generally declined during the past 5 years because of stress and weight gain. What’s worse, women are gambling with their health by also skipping recommended procedures and prescriptions, not only for themselves, but for their families, say 45% of respondents. You may be tempted to cut back on healthcare provider visits or to ignore that ongoing and annoying symptom, but it’s likely to cost you more in the long run. The longer you wait to address your symptoms the more severe your problem could become and the more costly and invasive the treatment could turn out to be.

And that’s where our Health4Women.org health stimulus plan can help. Increasing stress and waistlines are symptoms of a bigger problem: a neglect of basic self care needs. Experts agree that there are a few simple health strategies, which if practiced every day, can create huge health gains. What’s more, they’re easy and relatively low or no cost:

• Eat a healthy diet low in saturated fats and high in fruits and veggies


• Get 30 minutes of activity


• Close your eyes and focus on slow, deep breathing for 5 minutes


• Brush your teeth and wash your hands


• Quit smoking


• Limit how much alcohol you drink

Did you know that women may be more susceptible than men to drinking too much, which can lead to alcohol addiction? All of that drinking can add up to unhealthy eating as well. And weight gain. We’ve become such fans of the drive-thru that experts say we’re now consuming enough calories in our snacking and convenience eating to equal a fourth meal each day.

But do not despair, gentle reader who has the cares of the world on her shoulders right now. Wake up your fitness routine with something new, like water aerobics. In Walk the Line, physical therapy experts show you how to improve your heart health and vitality by simply getting moving. And did you know that eggs can actually be a healthy way to jump start your breakfast while also lowering your risk of breast cancer? Start the day right and you may be surprised to find you have newfound energy and zeal to practice healthy habits for the rest of the day. Share with others how your own health stimulus plan is benefiting you.