North Dakota the 2nd healthiest state in America!
For as long as we can remember, we have always been
told to be healthy. In fact, I am sure we can all think of a time growing up when
our parents told us “no” to certain sweets and pushed the fruits and veggies
for a healthier intake. The idea of eating healthy is something that is getting
more and more difficult to do. Every time I leave the grocery store lately I
ask myself why is it that the cost of healthy foods can add up so quickly, yet
I can run over to McDonalds and order a McDouble off the dollar menu?! But I do
know…it’s about convenience and price that makes it much easier to eat
unhealthy foods. It is important to
remember that living a healthy lifestyle is much more than eating the right
foods. It involves taking charge of our lives physically, mentally,
emotionally, and spiritually.
Last Saturday Olivia, Erica and I participated in
the Fargo Red River Valley Heart Walk at the Scheels arena. We were also
welcomed by my mom and two sisters who were, by the way, a blast to have at our booth helping out. We had a wonderful time volunteering,
taking pictures, walking in honor of those who have/had heart disease and
encouraging others to make healthy lifestyle choices. I learned a great fact on
Saturday. North Dakota is the second healthiest state in America! Way to go
North Dakota!!! And because I am raised as a Minnesota girl, I was excited to
see that Minnesota is 3rd on the list! How exciting to think
about?! I encourage you to continue
empowering yourself to take charge of your health. Take small steps every day, choose
the stairs instead of an elevator, consume lots of water, park your car farther
from the entrance, quit smoking, go for a walk, take smaller portions when
you’re out to eat….whatever it is, I want to say keep it up to the people of North
Dakota and Minnesota in living a healthy lifestyle!!
Ashley Voigt
Mrs. ND International 2012
