Get the Buzz on National Wellness Month

August is National Wellness Month, which falls at the perfect time as August is also a month that signals transition. Established by Live Love Spa in 2018, this is a great time to check in with yourself to see what changes you may want to make for the remainder of the year. While self-care as we know it today is all the buzz on social media (based on the 76 MM+ #selfcare posts on Instagram alone), the concept is much older than we may realize.

Here is a quick look at self-care throughout history:

Ancient Egypt: Hygiene was important to the ancient Egyptians who bathed daily and since they wore makeup, daily skin care was also a form of self-care¹.
Ancient Taoist principles promote self-care through the practice of meditation, breathing exercises and herbal medicine¹.
Ancient Greece: Popular Greek philosophers Socrates and Plato spoke on the importance of self-care and reflection as part of living a virtuous life² while Hippocrates stressed the mind/body connection and encouraged finding balance with your mental and physical health¹.
3rd Century: Ancient Romans practiced daily reflection and enjoyed the luxury of the Roman baths, which according to National Today served as “a source of health, luxury entertainment and social gatherings².”
5th Century: The now popular practice of Yoga is developed in India over 5,000 years ago².
19th & 20th Centuries: The focus of health shifts to include mental health and self-care.
- 1948: The World Health Organization redefines “health” to include the holistic view of mind, body and social well-being².

Self-care today encompasses all the little things we do for ourselves to achieve a sense of holistic well-being. This may consist of the occasional treat for yourself, like a pedicure or a new book, or life-ling habits that you have established for the betterment of your mind, body and spirit, such as journaling or a daily run. Looking to make some changes in your lifestyle? Here are a few to start with:

Drink More Water

There is no denying that water is essential to our bodies as it helps to flush out toxins and other yuckies. Stubborn taste buds? Turn to honey! Not only does a drizzle of honey add a unique flavor to your water, but you also get to harness honey's natural energy-boosting power!

Get Physical

Speaking of energy, physical activity and exercise are important to keep your body in tip-top shape (not to mention it releases feel-good hormones that we could all use more of). Need a little help to get through your next workout? Honey’s got you covered! With 17 grams of carbohydrates per tablespoon, honey is a natural source of energy and ideal for your working muscles. Get our best tips on adding honey to your workout here.

Cook Nutritious, Well-Balanced Meals

We’ve all grown up hearing about the importance of consuming well-balanced meals that have the correct amount of protein, grains, fats, dairy, and sugars, and even more about foods that have immunity-boosting antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Research has shown that honey has a wide array of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants! Flavonoids and phenolic acids, which act as antioxidants, are found in honey, although the amount and type of these compounds depend largely on the floral source (check out more about honey’s nutritional profile). More than just flavor, honey brings functionality to your favorite dishes. Learn more about immunity-boosting foods and get our favorite recipes here.

Reduce Stress

As we prepare for the new season, it is important to take some time to unwind and let your stress go. This could be done through meditation, reading a book, enjoying time for a hobby or interest, taking some time to organize your space, or even as simple as pausing with a soothing cup of tea with honey.

Get More Sleep

There’s no denying the power of a good night’s sleep, and now is a good time to make sure we get plenty of it. As the days grow shorter, now is a great time to create a schedule that ensures we unplug and get plenty of rest to reset, rejuvenate and restore our bodies and our minds.

Practice Gratitude

Seasons of transition can be stressful for many, but it is important to not let it take us down. As we move into the last few months of the year, it is important to remain positive and be grateful for the things that we have. Perhaps we could all take a page from the ancient Romans book and practice daily reflection (with or without the journal).

However you practice self-care, we hope that you find balance.

We want to hear from you! How do you practice self-care? Let us know in the comments.

SOURCES:

¹ Self Care throughout the ages. Ceasar Archivum. 23 December 2022. https://caesararchivum.com/blogs/news/self-care-throughout-the-ages