Exercise is one of the most productive and popular hobbies in prisons all over the world. While the care of one’s physical body is important, many forget to exercise one of their most vital
organs . . . THEIR BRAIN.
Prisoners perceive time differently in prison. In our imagination, that pecan tree in our backyard is still full, green, and vibrant. Those polyester butterfly-collared shirts I own are still in style. For prisoners, time seems to stand still.
Because many of us are serving long sentences, it is imperative that we try to maintain optimum health. The best way to do this is through proper nutrition and exercise. Many prisoners only focus on endurance and strength training. As we grow older, we need to incorporate another facet to that regime of wellness: balance and flexibility.
Continue reading “I’VE FALLEN AND I CAN’T GET UP! HOW TO MAINTAIN GOOD BALANCE AND FLEXIBILITY”I know how difficult it is to maintain certain beauty standards as a woman incarcerated. I was once incarcerated and missed the certain regalness that came with the privileges of being a lady, such as pedicures and manicures, having a stylist do my hair, and seeing a dermatologist or esthetician for skin care. Who doesn’t miss a jazzercise or yoga session or an afternoon at a
massage parlor with close friends? Incarceration takes away many of these privileges. However, there are basic tips and best practices that can still be exercised anywhere for good health and skin. I am sharing some of these basic tips, and although we cannot buy nail polish, makeup, and most of our hair products from the commissary, these tips will still help to maintain the beauty
in you.
By Faith, Latyra, Kima, Rusty, and Stephanie; Women in Re-Entry at the People’s Paper Co-op Arts & Advocacy Fellowship
From PHN Issue 39, Winter/Spring 2019
The following is our truth. Our voice. It’s written by powerful women, all formerly incarcerated. We want you to remember your worth, to know that we hear you, that you’re thought of, and that we’re sending our love!
WE KNOW THE PROBLEM:
I know what it’s like to be depressed and behind bars. Waking up, day after day, living in a box… not knowing when you’re going home… Locked down. Feeling like a number, not a person. I’d sit and wait. Continue reading “Growing Through Depression: A Toolbox for Mental Wellness”
By Timothy Hinkhouse
From PHN Issue 38, Fall 2018
Migraines:
Don’t you just hate it when your day hits a brick wall because you feel a blinding migraine coming on? Some people, it practically debilitates them and leaves them curled up in the fetal position in a dark room on their bed with a cool wet cloth on their forehead while wishing for any immediate relief. Continue reading “Quick Tips for Common Ailments”
By Leo Cardez
From PHN Issue 34, Fall 2017
As the winter approaches, I find myself getting tired and moody. It starts as early as September and gets really bad in January. Although I’ve never been officially diagnosed, I’m sure I suffer from some degree of SAD (seasonal affective disorder). As I look around my cell block, I don’t think I’m the only one. The good news is I’ve found that some small tweaks to my daily routine (tips and tricks) can help keep my spirits high. Continue reading “Beat the Winter Blues”
by Alexandra S. Wimberly
From PHN Issue 33, Summer 2017
Have you ever tried yoga? Ever been curious about what yoga is or if it might be something that you would like to try? The following is a short introduction to yoga, along with a few yoga practices to try. One of the great things about yoga is that it can be practiced anywhere and needs no special equipment—just your mind, your body, and your attention. Continue reading “Yoga for Beginners”
by Corey Crawford
From PHN Issue 27, Winter 2016
One thing we have more of inside than out is time. We need to use it wisely; exercising is one way to do that.
Exercise gets the blood circulating, which in turn spreads oxygen to the body’s cells, keeping them fresh and healthy. Continue reading “Burpees: An Exercise for Stamina”
Prison Health News 