A message from Dr. Kelsey Louie, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, FNHA Office of the Chief Medical Officer
As a First Nations physician who is passionate about health and fitness, I am always happy to highlight and share about the many ways we as First Nations people can work on our individual wellness.
Being active is one of the best things we can do for both our physical and mental health. Moving our bodies on a consistent basis comes more easily to some of us than to others, but the key is to find activities you really enjoy – whether it's traditional practices like cultural dancing, modern sports, or simply spending time outdoors. In my case, being a busy father of a young child, I am learning how to make space for myself to maximize physical activity time. Sometimes this includes family walks, swimming, or other activities we all do together.
Getting outside and moving, especially with friends and family, strengthens us physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually! As First Nations people, our wellness is deeply rooted in our traditional practices as well as our connection to our lands, waters, culture, and community. So, I encourage our communities and leadership, if possible, to plan/make time to organize or host community walks, runs, traditional games, dance, canoeing, hunting, or outdoor gatherings.
You might even want to join the FNHA's 30x30 Active Challenge to jumpstart your fitness routine! This challenge is simply a commitment to yourself to be active for at least 30 minutes each of the 30 days of June.
For those of you who have been less active or inactive, it is a good reminder to approach activity gently, “starting low and going slow." Otherwise, you may risk overdoing it or injuring yourself by trying to do too much, too soon. Set a short-term, realistic, and achievable goal, e.g., “I will go for a walk during my lunch break," or “I will do stretches every morning." It is also a good idea to pair up with an exercise buddy if possible so you can motivate each other and provide accountability.
Getting moving on a regular basis may be challenging at first, but keep in mind the incredible benefits you will reap, including:
- Living longer, healthier, and happier.
- Reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke, hypertension, colon cancer, breast cancer, type-2 diabetes, and osteoporosis.
- Increasing your energy level.
- Reducing the effects of stress.
- Improving your mental health and overall sense of well-being.
Physical activity can reduce stress, improve mood, and strengthen resilience. Try to make it a sustainable part of daily life – and remember that every bit of activity counts!
To help ensure safety for those with chronic conditions or mobility issues, we encourage you to check in with your physician or health care provider before beginning a new exercise regime.
Finally, please feel free to access the FNHA's resources and tools to support your physical activity goals:
- FNHA's Wellness Roadmap - This workbook can support you to determine what your wellness goals are and strategies for accomplishing them.
- FNHA's Health and Wellness Daily Organizer – This daily organizer is intended to support you in tracking your wellness activities for all four wellness streams, Being Active, Eating Healthier, Nurturing Spirit, and Respecting Tobacco. To order a physical copy of this daily organizer, please email Resources@FNHA.ca.
- FNHA's webpage, Being Active.
Our partner, the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (ISPARC) offers webinars, training, and physical health education opportunities you can access by visiting the ISPARC Events Page. You can learn about the ISPARC's Indigenous RunWalk program, FitNation training and the Healthy Leader Training by visiting their Healthy Living Page.
