7 Activities to Celebrate World Health Day

There’s no bad time to support global health. With World Health Day just around the corner, now is the perfect time to celebrate the health of yourself, your loved ones and the entire world with a few activities from our wellness experts here at The Leaf.

In 1950, April 7th became officially known as “World Health Day,” sponsored by the World Health Organization (WHO). This global public holiday brings attention to significant health-related concerns, with each year focusing on a specific theme.

According to WHO, 2020 is the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. They explain, “World Health Day 2020 will shine a light on the vital role played by nurses and midwives in providing health care around the world, and call for a strengthening of the nursing and midwifery workforce.”

Here at Nutrisystem, we would like to take the time to celebrate the wellness of the world on this important day. These World Health Day activities are the perfect way to show support and raise awareness for the health of all—including yourself. When it comes to global health and wellness, we truly are better together.

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Celebrate World Health Day all month long with these seven activities:

1. Give Back

World Health Day may have a specific theme every year. However, it all comes back to one thing, global health. Spread love (and health), by giving back to those in need. Donate nutritious food to a community food pantry or volunteer to help cook and serve healthy meals at a local soup kitchen. There are also many organizations that provide food and health services on a global scale. Do some research, select a cause that resonates with you and take action. 

2. Get a Check Up

With a focus on global health awareness, it’s a great time to turn your attention towards your own health. Schedule a doctor’s appointment for an annual checkup and check in on your own health and wellness. Even if you’re not sick, a checkup is a preventative measure that can help to catch early warning signs of potential health concerns.

Your doctor will likely check your vital signs, such as blood pressure and heart rate, says Healthline. Along with a physical examination, laboratory tests such as a complete metabolic panel may be conducted to check your blood and vital organs. Healthline explains that your doctor might also screen you for diabetes, thyroid concerns and heart problems. Always ask your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about your health. While you’re there, make sure to also thank your nurse for their hard work and the positive impact they make in people’s lives.

3. Run a 5K

The arrival of spring brings along warm weather and outdoor charity events and functions. Use your fitness, physical health and weight loss motivation to give back to others through a 5K charity run. Even if you’re not a runner, you may still be able to participate. “Many 5Ks touted as fundraisers, fun runs, or community events are open to walkers,” explains Silver Sneakers. They recommend reading the brochure or checking out the organization website if you’re unsure if walking is permitted. There is often a separate start time for walkers, so make sure to check before you start stepping. Exercise and physical activity provide many health benefits. And when paired up with a charity, you’re also supporting a good cause. Learn more about running or walking a 5K this spring with our 6 tips below!: 

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4. Set Goals

If your New Year’s Resolutions have taken the back burner since the start of 2020, now is the perfect time to revisit your health-oriented goals. Grab a pen and paper and take some time to jot down your thoughts and aspirations. And don’t be afraid to think beyond the scale! Maybe you have a fitness goal, such as increasing your running or walking distance, adding an extra full body workout day to your week or trying that power yoga class you’ve been thinking about. Or maybe you want to focus on your nutrition by incorporating some healthy and delicious air fryer recipes for you and your loved ones! Whether you’re trying to add more fruits and vegetables into your diet or improve your hydration habits by drinking water or cutting out soda, focusing on your personal wellbeing and choosing small goals can make a big difference in your life. 

Not sure where to start? Achieve your goals every time with our helpful guide! >

5. Meal Plan

You’ve heard it before and we’re here to say it again; you are what you eat! If you eat healthy, nutritious food, you will become a healthy, nourished person. In celebration of World Health Day, set yourself up for a week of healthy eating by taking the time to create a weekly menu. After all, we’re all an important piece of this global puzzle—yourself included. 

Planning and organizing your meals ahead of time can help you avoid unhealthy options and stay on track towards your health-related goals. If you live with family, sit down together to come up with a shopping list for healthy meal and snack ideas that everyone enjoys. Educate yourselves on the health benefits of each ingredient and make a lasting impression about the importance of nutrition on your kiddos.

Need some recipe inspo? Check out these 17 Family-Friendly Meals That Everyone Will Love! >

6. Say Thank You 

World Health Day 2020 is the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife. For most of us, a nurse or midwife has touched our lives at some point in time. Whether it was at a regular doctor visit, unexpected hospital stay or an encounter with your loved one, a positive impact was likely made. Show your appreciation by sending flowers or thank you cards to the nurses and midwives in your community. From your personal doctor’s office to your local hospital, many will appreciate the gesture.

You can also post your gratitude on social media and thank the nurses and midwives in your personal life. Maybe you have a friend or family member in the profession. WHO recommends using the hashtag #SupportNursesAndMidwives on social media to share the love on this special day.

To gain an understanding and appreciation of the hard work they contribute to society, WHO also suggests shadowing a nurse or midwife in your community. This will help you to learn more about these essential professions and how they save lives every day. “Nurses and midwives are vital to our future, we need millions more,” says WHO.

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7. Do Some Research

World Health Day has been around for decades. Over the years, there has been a variety of different themes that focus on different aspects of global health. Take some time to read up on past themes and educate yourself on their importance in society. You’re sure to learn a thing or two about living healthy and making the world a better place.

Read more healthy diet and lifestyle tips from our wellness experts at The Leaf. This World Health Day, let’s inspire each other to make healthier choices!