Proper Nutrition and Regular Exercise Can Help Reduce Stress

Join The Rapides Foundation Get Healthy Cenla Challenge, a daily challenge designed to encourage people to improve their nutrition and physical activity. Our goal is for everyone to eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day, and get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day, five days a week. 

The April Challenge Calendar focuses on stress management. Studies show implementing healthy behaviors through proper nutrition and regular exercise can help reduce stress in our fast-paced lives. The way we manage stress can have a huge impact on our health. Ensuring you get enough sleep, taking time for deep meditation or breathing, exercising daily and building a network of social connections can promote relaxation and reduce stress. Find the time to explore the yoga pose of the day. Adding yoga stretches into your day will help you reduce stress, increase flexibility and strengthen your muscles. Click here to download the April 2024 Challenge Calendar.

In addition to our calendar, we have even more resources to help you meet your health goals. You can click here to see videos about how to eat healthier, simple exercises you can add to your workout, and tips for proper walking techniques on our YouTube channel. Links to all of these resources are also in the "More Links" section below this article. 

The challenges on our calendar are prepared by trained staff in our CMAP Healthy Lifestyle Program. They are designed to be simple and realistic. If you find the challenges too easy, try doubling the amounts. If they are too hard, don't worry. Do what you can, and have fun!

The Get Healthy Cenla Challenge is a component of the Healthy Lifestyle Program, a lifestyle coaching program. The purpose of the Healthy Lifestyle Program is to provide demonstration and education on proper nutrition and physical activity for good health aimed at fighting chronic disease in Central Louisiana. Talk to your doctor for a referral, or call 318-767-3019 for more information. The Healthy Lifestyle Program is funded by The Rapides Foundation and administered by CMAP.  Click here to learn more about the Healthy Lifestyle Program.