9 Ways to Celebrate Women’s Health and Fitness Day
Women, something exciting is happening on September 25! It’s Women’s Health and Fitness Day—a day “dedicated to promoting the importance of women’s health and fitness and encouraging women of all ages to make healthy lifestyle choices.”
First established in 2002, this day has become a fantastic way to celebrate the uniqueness of women and the importance of focusing on their health.
As we know, women’s and men’s bodies are uniquely different. Even though they are complementary, men’s and women’s bodies are physically different in many ways, including muscle mass, heart rates, body and bone structure, sensitivity to cold, strength of the ability to smell and taste, and so on. Further, men’s and women’s bodies react differently to diseases, and it has long been known that women are more likely to experience adverse reactions to meds.
Because of these differences and to help stress the importance of caring for the bodies and minds of women, the Health Information Resource Center established Women’s Health and Fitness Day to be celebrated on the last Wednesday of September.
This is a great day to not only bring awareness to the importance of caring for women’s bodies and minds but to help every woman take the time to focus on herself and to realize that she is valuable—to herself, to her family, and to her friends.
So what does it mean to make healthy lifestyle choices? While the specifics will vary, some general guidelines include eating well, exercising regularly, and taking time to just relax and enjoy life. These times of relaxation help recharge our bodies when we’re feeling stressed.
As we get ready to celebrate this day, we want to share nine things you can do to further your wellness.
- Join a group event
Google “local events for Women’s Health and Fitness Day.” Events are frequently held at gyms, at rec centers, at nutrition offices, and more. Past reports have seen 50,000 to 75,000 participants across the country. If you can’t find anything in your area, grab some friends and create your own. Go for a walk, work out together, or play your favorite group sport!
- Choose a fun activity to reduce stress
Caring for your mental health will have lasting effects on your physical health. We all destress in different ways. Whether that’s listening to music, taking a bubble bath, relaxing with a book, or going for a walk outside, do something that allows you to enjoy the moment and not think about what you didn’t do today and have to do tomorrow.
- Participate in a health fair
Medical groups often offer health fairs where they conduct routine medical screenings. They look for signs of heart disease, run blood tests, check your BMI and blood pressure, and can do various other testing. You can also talk with a health professional about any concerns you have. If you have been postponing your wellness check, this could be your opportunity to get back on track.
- Take a step toward a new goal
We all have something we want to do to improve ourselves. Maybe it’s increasing exercise, establishing better eating habits, or giving up a vice like smoking or sugar. Celebrate today by making a promise to yourself that you will take this step to become a healthier version of you.
- Pamper yourself
Do you find yourself going at warp speed nearly every day with very little time for yourself? Take half a day or even just a few hours to do something that you want to do. Go to the spa, get a massage or acupuncture, or simply sit outside in the sun with a good book and a healthy snack.
- Join a webinar or attend a health summit
Do you want to increase your knowledge about a specific health trend or a certain aspect of nutrition? Search online for a free webinar or conference and challenge yourself to learn more.
- Choose a new and healthy menu item and make yourself a delicious meal
We often get stuck in a rut of the same handful of recipes. Google some healthy meals you can make at home and find something that appeals to you.
- Exercise
Exercise is crucial, but challenge yourself to try something new. Grab a friend and try a new sport together. Purchase a new piece of exercise equipment. Or instead of walking, try jogging.
- Schedule that doctor appointment you have been putting off
We know it’s no fun to go to the doctor, but now is the time to make caring for yourself a priority. Schedule that well visit, get in to see the dentist, and stop postponing that mammogram!
On this day designated just for women’s health, do something (or many things!) to prioritize yourself and your health. Understand that you and your health matter. So enjoy the day and have fun!
