I think the answer just might be a big “yes!” At least that is the case from what I have been seeing in the communities that I have visited lately. It is even true of my own community. When people come together and show that they care not just for their own health, but for the health of all of the people around them too. I feel like the news and other media just reports on negative things like how unhealthy and overweight Americans are, so I wanted to share some positive thoughts. I mean, not every one is one Big Mac burger away from a coronary artery bypass surgery. There are a lot of people who are healthy and happy, and those people want to see the same things for their neighbors. The things below prove that communities are trying to be more healthy overall.
- Free Exercise Classes. In my own small community I have seen so many new exercise classes being offered to residents of the area. Not only are they available to all of the people of the area, but they are free! Things like yoga, Zumba, and even kickboxing are making appearances in community centers and churches so that residents can get some exercise and live healthier.
- Healthy Eating Seminars. A couple of local pharmacies and groceries are offering seminars on eating healthy for area residents. Like the exercise classes, these are free classes that will teach people about eating healthy and cooking healthy.
- Going Local. A lot of restaurants are spreading the word about he fact that they use fresh and local produce and meats. This encourages the community to do the same. There are even more farmer’s markets in my area that offer up all the local best foods right at your fingertips.
- Pet Care Training. The people of the community are not the only ones getting healthy advice and options in the community. Many places have training for pets and clinics that will help citizens stay informed on things like proper care and spay and neutering pets. A lot of the training sessions can be found free, and there are some spay and neuter clinics that are free as well. Those clinics do accept donations though so they can fund the operations.
