National Wellness Month
National Wellness Month is a month-long observance held every August that encourages individuals to prioritize self-care, build healthy routines, and focus on their overall mental, physical, and emotional well-being. It was founded in 2018 by Live Love Spa to promote the idea that wellness is a lifestyle, not just a luxury.
How it’s Celebrated
Throughout the month, people are encouraged to take a holistic approach to their well-being. This can involve making small, manageable changes that lead to healthier habits. Common ways to celebrate include:
- Physical Wellness: Engaging in regular physical activity, trying new exercises like yoga or hiking, staying hydrated, and focusing on a nutritious diet.
- Mental and Emotional Wellness: Practicing mindfulness or meditation, taking breaks from screens, spending time in nature, and setting aside time for hobbies or relaxation.
- Social Wellness: Reconnecting with friends and family, and building strong support networks.
The August Reset: Why National Wellness Month Matters
August is here, and with it comes a dedicated time to focus on what often gets pushed to the back burner: your wellness. This isn’t just a marketing gimmick; National Wellness Month is a nationwide movement to remind us that taking care of ourselves isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. In our fast-paced lives, prioritizing health can feel like a chore, but this month offers a perfect opportunity to pause, reset, and build sustainable habits for a healthier, happier you.
What is Wellness, Anyway?
Wellness is a lot more than just hitting the gym or eating a salad. It’s a holistic concept that encompasses our physical, mental, emotional, and social health. Think of it like a four-legged chair; if one leg is weak, the whole thing is wobbly.
- Physical Wellness: This is what we usually think of first. It includes things like getting regular exercise, eating nutritious food, drinking enough water, and getting adequate sleep.
- Mental Wellness: This is about actively managing stress, practicing mindfulness, and being kind to yourself. It’s about taking a break from the endless scroll and letting your mind rest.
- Emotional Wellness: This involves recognizing and accepting your feelings, both good and bad, and developing healthy coping mechanisms. It’s about building emotional resilience.
- Social Wellness: A strong support network is critical to our well-being. This includes connecting with friends, family, and your community.
Simple Ways to Celebrate This Month
You don’t need a complete life overhaul to get started. Small, consistent steps can lead to significant changes. Here are a few ideas to get you going:
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: The simplest change with a huge impact. Carry a water bottle with you and set a goal to refill it throughout the day.
- Take a Walk: A quick 15-minute walk outside can boost your mood, improve cardiovascular health, and give you a much-needed break from your desk.
- Try a Digital Detox: Challenge yourself to put your phone away for an hour before bed or for a few hours on the weekend.
- Start a Gratitude Journal: Writing down three things you’re grateful for each day can shift your mindset and reduce stress.
- Reconnect: Schedule a coffee date or a phone call with a friend you haven’t talked to in a while.
- Prioritize Sleep: Create a wind-down routine that helps you relax. This could be reading a book, taking a warm bath, or listening to a calming podcast.
National Wellness Month is a great excuse to finally book that annual check-up, find a new healthy recipe, or simply give yourself permission to rest without guilt. It’s a reminder that your health is your most valuable asset. So, this August, take the “I Choose Wellness” pledge and make a promise to prioritize you.
