Let's Talk: Women's Health

Heart health

How I stay active without overthinking it

Your heart is more than an organ - it’s a symbol of courage and vitality. Yet heart disease quietly remains the top health threat for women worldwide.

Staying active used to feel like a chore, but now I dance in the kitchen while making dinner or take short walk breaks between meetings. I even got a standing desk set up so I can stretch throughout the day. It's not about hitting the gym - it's about moving with joy and intention.

Honour your heart:

• Schedule a yearly wellness check to monitor blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Move joyfully - walk, stretch, dance.
• Choose colourful fruits, crunchy nuts, and whole grains that fuel your body.

Mental health

What grounds me

Our minds shape our world. Sometimes we feel anxious, low or overwhelmed by stress, but they don’t have to dictate your story.

For me, mental health check-ins aren’t just a practice - they’re a lifeline. I start most mornings with a few quiet minutes sipping herbal tea while journaling. It’s a simple ritual, but it helps me process thoughts and anchor my day. I also make it a point to take nature walks during the week - no headphones, just the sound of my breath and the outdoors. That silence helps me reset in a way nothing else does.

Watch for signs of stress or sadness, and take action: talk with a friend, explore counselling, or practise daily gratitude.

Breast health

Know your normal

Your breasts are part of your story. Learning what’s normal for you isn’t just smart - it’s empowering.

For me, it became part of my post-shower routine. I treat it as an act of kindness toward myself, not something to fear or avoid. I also make sure my annual screenings are booked during my birth month - an easy way to remember. It gives me peace of mind and reminds me that staying proactive is a form of love, not worry.

A gentle self-exam each month can become a ritual of self-care. If you spot a new lump or feel a change, you are not alone - reach out early. Trust your instincts and speak up. Knowledge is power, and early detection can transform outcomes.

Hormone Health

Tuning in

Hormones whisper to us through irregular cycles, surprising hair growth, or unwelcome fatigue.

I’ve had moments where fatigue or mood swings seemed mysterious - until I started tracking my cycle and energy levels. Now, I use a simple app to notice patterns and adjust my schedule accordingly. During lower-energy phases, I plan slower mornings or lighter workloads if possible.

Balance comes from mindful living: nourishing foods, movement that feels right for your body, and stress-reducing rituals like deep breaths, journaling, or nature walks. And when symptoms persist, I don’t hesitate to call my doctor.

Menstruation

My go-to comfort kit

Your period is more than a cycle - it’s a testament to your body’s wisdom.

When my cycle hits, I’ve learned to treat myself kindly. A heating pad, a stash of dark chocolate, and my favorite calming playlist are non-negotiables. I also discovered that gentle yoga (especially child’s pose and legs-up-the-wall) makes a big difference. It’s about honouring my body, not pushing through the discomfort like I used to.

I keep a “comfort drawer” stocked with herbal teas, cosy socks, and affirmations I like to read when I’m feeling low on energy.

To ease discomfort, try a warm bath, a nourishing meal, or a light stretch. If bleeding overwhelms you, seek advice from your GP.

Sexual health

Honour your choices

Your sexual health is a celebration of autonomy. Whether you choose abstinence, contraception, or the intimacy of a trusted partner, your body, your choice.

I’ve learned that feeling safe and heard in relationships starts with being clear about my own boundaries. It’s not always easy to speak up, but I remind myself that discomfort from honesty is far better than discomfort from silence.

Barrier methods like condoms or dental dams reduce the risk of STIs. Vaccines, like the HPV vaccine, can help protect against cervical cancer. Consent, communication, and respect form the foundation of a healthy, empowered sexual life.