My Health for Life is a free lifestyle program funded by the Queensland Government and designed and delivered by the Healthier Queensland Alliance. The Alliance is a group of non-Government organisations working in partnership with the Government and Health and Wellbeing Queensland to improve the health of Queenslanders.

The organisations involved are:

• Diabetes Queensland
• Stroke Foundation
• National Heart Foundation of Australia
• Queensland Primary Health Networks (PHN)
• Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland ECCQ)
• Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC)

The following are thanked for their counsel and support:

• Health and Wellbeing Queensland (HWQld)
• Queensland Health
• Brisbane South Primary Health Network Positive Impact Program
• Victoria Life! Program
• Network of providers and coaches
• The people of Caboolture who helped develop this program.

I am currently participating in a free fortnightly My Health for Life Program and after just three group sessions (with a physiotherapist, alternating exercises indoors and out in the park) I feel positive about ‘tweaking’ my lifestyle and eating habits for the better, e.g. increased movement and decreased intake of tea and bikkies.

Also, I was given a Group Coaching Program workbook which is filled out each session to keep my healthy eating on-track and planning for success. A Wellbeing Book, or Guide to Good Health, is included in the pack (in an environmentally friendly carry bag) which offers support, tips on motivation, monitoring your progress, etc, as well as overcoming challenges.

NATURALLY THERE IS NO GUARANTEE THAT EXERCISE WILL MAKE YOU MORE ATTRACTIVE

THAT’S JUST MY TAKE ON FEELING GOOD INSIDE AND OUT!

If you are interested, there is a free health check on the My Health for Life website. Give it a go. In my group there are couples, an asthmatic, a diabetic and a man who has had heart surgery. You’ve got a lot of life to live.

My suggestion—sign up and step away from the screen—do it now!

♥ Gretchen Bernet-Ward