April 7, 2021

World Health Day 2021: How You Can Celebrate

World Health Day is a global health awareness day celebrated annually on the 7th of April.

Today is World Health Day! For over 70 years, this international event has drawn attention to a subject of major importance to global health every year. This year, the theme for World Health Day is building a fairer, healthier world. Global Health & Home is celebrating with this guide that features small changes you can make to become the happiest and healthiest version of you!

1) Eat Nourishing Food

Nourishing food doesn’t have to be boring! Try to incorporate foods with a variety of colors. Tomatoes, carrots, squash, lettuce, kiwi, lemons, avocados, chickpeas, and more! Consuming an array of foods from all the food groups allow you to get a range of nutrients to keep you going strong. A balanced diet includes fruits and vegetables, lean protein, low-fat dairy, and whole grains. Consider switching up meals or trying something new to keep things interesting!

2) Surround Yourself in Good Company

Did you know good friendship can improve both your physical and mental health? During the good times and the bas times, true friends are with us every step of the way. In fact, your best friend may be benefiting your mind and body in ways you don’t even realize. Studies have linked close friendships to several physical, mental, and emotional health benefits including stronger immunity, lower stress levels, improved self-confidence, increased happiness, and overall health.

3) Do Something You Love Every Day

As humans, we all have different strengths, hobbies, and passions that make up who we are. Music, exercising, volunteering, cooking, reading, and more. In the fast-paced world we live in, it’s easy to get caught up in work or school and miss out on doing the things we actually like. Regardless of how busy your daily life is, it’s important to take time for yourself. Try dedicating a certain amount of time each day to do something you like. Whether it’s 5 minutes listening to your favorite song or 2 hours on a hike, do what works for you. Making time to take care of yourself is one of the best investments you can make.

4) Get a Full Night’s Sleep

Did you know more than one-third of Americans don’t get enough sleep? Getting a full night’s rest is crucial for our physical and mental health. Getting enough sleep has an array of benefits including boosting your immune system, maintaining weight, improving cardiovascular health, increased productivity, providing stamina, helping your memory, and more! The bottom line is that sleep plays an essential role in our overall health. Getting a full night’s rest is something you need in order to take care of yourself and your wellbeing.

5) Limit Social Media, News, and Screen Time

In today’s age, we’re constantly exposed to news and social media that’s fighting for our attention. While news and social media are a great way to stay informed and connected to friends and family, it can also lead to an information overload. Although it’s not realistic to cut media out completely, minimizing your exposure can improve your mental health. When you feel the urge to scroll through you phone, try going for a walk, reading a book, or playing with a pet.

6) Get Some Fresh Air

During the age of COVID-19, we are all too familiar with social distancing and quarantining. Being cooped up inside all the time can be damaging for our physical and mental health. Not only does getting outdoors help you exercise and provide Vitamin D, it also decreases anxiety, improves focus, boosts your immune system, and more. It’s also a great way to spend time with others! Try inviting friends to walk on the beach, go to the park, hike a new trail, or visit the dog park.

7) Spread Kindness

It’s true— a little kindness and compassion goes a long way. Smiling at a stranger, paying it forward at the coffee shop, complementing a coworker, or just asking someone how they are. By spreading positivity and kindness, you’re able to conserve energy and boost your mood. Being critical and judgmental of others can cause us to be critical and place judgement on ourselves. Honestly, having a bunch of negative energy built up can be exhausting. Being kind to others can help you be kind to yourself.