Editor's Note: Although Bay Mills Indian Community has a good health promotion program for young and old alike, as well as facilities for people to make their own fun, the following press release from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention showcases a few great ideas from across Indian Country that might be fun here, too. — J. Dale
ALBUQUERQUE — With health issues becoming more of a concern for Native Americans, many communities are taking a pro-active approach to staying active and healthy. By now, we all know that staying active is one of the best ways to prevent health problems like diabetes and obesity. With programs and events springing up in communities around the country, it's easier than ever to find the right activity for you.
The Yavapai-Apache Youth Council in Camp Verde, Ariz., decided to build a walking trail for their community. With the support of the tribal council, the students were given a small portion of land, which was officially blessed before construction of the trail began.
In Zwolle, La., members of the Choctaw-Apache Rising Sun Youth Group have managed, with the co-operation of the school board, to arrange several fitness activities in which parents enjoy playing volleyball and basketball.
The youths challenge the adults to additional games, and the competition alone provides motivation to participate. “This alone will be successful due to the challenge issued, because the youth can't stand the idea that the adults beat them,” commented Susan Lee, site manager.
But it's not just kids leading the way for physical fitness. Residents at the Warm Springs reservation are actively focusing on diabetes prevention by organizing The Diabetes Walking Club where members participate in group walks and blood sugar testing.
“We recommend one mile per day, that is 2000 steps, but each person is different, so do whatever you can,” said Kim Yaskus, exercise instructor at the Wellness Community Center. Pedometers are given out for free to track distance with steps, and finger-stick blood sugar testing before and after their monthly promotion walks are given in an effort to show the effects of exercise on blood sugar levels.
Warm Springs residents are also using activity to keep tradition alive. Picking huckleberries was once a necessity to the tribe, however, with grocery stores and easy access to food, berry picking is being taught less frequently. The Boys and Girls Club of Warm Springs teaches traditions of the past like berry picking, hunting, fishing, and story telling, and in the process, gets kids outside and active.
Many other Native communities are starting active programs of their own, so get involved and get healthy! For more information on programs in your area, or for ideas on how to start your own, go to www.VERBparents.com.
