FALL HAT MONTH

Fall is here, and it’s getting colder, so it’s time to break out the headgear. It’s Fall Hat Month! During Fall Hat Month, switch out of the cool-weather head protection and into stylish felt and fabric styles.

Hats were probably one of the first items of clothing found among primitive humankind. In ancient times, hats were considered a symbol of rank and status. Sculptures of Egypt, drawings of ancient China, and coins of early Greece and Rome depicted prominent individuals wearing hats, which was more than likely an indication of where they were on the hierarchy.

By the seventeenth century, hats had become a worldly attire. Interestingly, hats were available in the new world, but supplies like beaver were exported to Europe due to popularity. Strangely, wearing a straw hat after September 15 in 1920 America would get you mugged.

Hats have played an impressive role in human history. Presumably, U.S. President William Henry Harrison died shortly after his inaugural address because he refused to wear a cap on that cold, nasty day. A month later he was dead of pneumonia. Though it’s inaccurate hats prevent you from losing most of your body heat through your head, they are still a good idea to wear in cold or stormy weather. It never hurts to have an extra layer of protection during the winter months!

NATIONAL FALL HAT MONTH HISTORY

Hats have been enjoyed since the beginning of time, even making their way into songs. Rock ‘n’ roll pioneer Gene Vincent (“Be Bop A-Lula”) named his backup band the “Blue Caps” after the blue flat caps President Dwight Eisenhower wore while golfing. The most notably known hat is referred to as “Newsboy caps,” which has enjoyed a resurgence in the U.S. and Europe. This hat style is now popular for both men and women. Avid hat wearers call them “cabbie hats,” or more formally, “flat caps.”

Headwear Information Bureau originally sponsored Fall Hat Month reminding the public that as the seasons change, felt and fabric hats better protect our heads for the weather. They also fit the styles for the season.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFallHatMonth

Finding that special hat might require some help from friends. A day of shopping might be necessary to honor National Fall Hat Day.

Use #NationalFallHatMonth in social media correspondence.

NATIONAL WELLNESS MONTH

All during August, National Wellness Month focuses on self-care, managing stress and promoting healthy routines. Create wholesome habits in your lifestyle all month long and see how much better you feel!

Research has shown self-care helps manage stress and promotes happiness. Whether you challenge yourself to a new yoga pose or try a different spa treatment, make a small change and impact your health in positive ways.

There are numerous ways to make those small changes, too.

  • Increase your water intake.
  • Add more fruits and veggies to your meals.
  • Monitor your sleep and make adjustments for better sleep habits
  • Join a yoga, walking, or aerobics class.
  • Learn to meditate.

These small steps can lead to many more healthy habits in your lifestyle.

NATIONAL WELLNESS MONTH HISTORY

Live Love Spa founded National Wellness Month in 2018 to foster community, connection, and commerce in the Wellness industry. The initiative inspires consumers to focus on wellness and provides a platform for wellness companies to highlight their services and benefits.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #WellnessMonth #Wellfie

Every August, let’s amplify the message of healthy living, celebrate those providing amazing self-care solutions, and inspire others to create new healthy habits.

Proclaim “I choose wellness” with a photo and post on social media.

Visit http://www.wellnessmonth.com for a calendar of daily challenges for small ways you can choose to be well each day. Because we believe that small, daily acts of self-care lead to a lifetime of wellness.

NATIONAL BLOOD PRESSURE EDUCATION  MONTH

National Blood Pressure Education Month in May provides awareness regarding hypertension.

Many people don’t even know they have high blood pressure. Symptoms of hypertension often go unnoticed and if left uncontrolled the risk of heart problems such as stroke or heart attack increase.

It’s important to know your numbers. When blood pressure is measured, the upper number (systolic pressure) measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The lower number (diastolic pressure) measures the pressure between heartbeats. For most people, a normal blood pressure is less than 120/80.

HISTORY

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention created National High Blood Pressure Education Month, and it is recognized by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE

During May, have your blood pressure checked. You can either schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or visit a local pharmacy that does blood pressure readings. If your blood pressure is elevated, it may be time for a physical. Some medications increase blood pressure. Lifestyle can be a factor, too.

Learn more by visiting the National Institute of Health National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.

Use #BloodPressureEducationMonth to share on social media.

NATIONAL STROKE AWARENESS MONTH

May is World Stroke Month.  Many health and heart organizations come together every May to raise awareness about the causes and effects of stroke.

One of their biggest campaigns is FAST, teaching the world to know the symptoms of stroke and how to respond quickly to help save a life.

  • Face – By asking the person to smile you can tell immediately if one side of the face droops.
  • Arm – Ask the person to raise both arms. Observe to see if one arm drifts lower than the other.
  • Speech – Slurred speech is a symptom of stroke. Ask the person to repeat a single sentence.
  • Time – Call 911-Fast. Time may be the difference between life and death or even partial and full recovery.

HISTORY

National Stroke Awareness Day was proclaimed in 1989 by President George H. W. Bush. It had been observed for many years before the proclamation. The Centers for Disease Control, the American Heart Association, World Stroke Campaign and many other have all participated in bringing education, research, and treatment on a global basis.

More….

HOW TO OBSERVE

Visit the cdc.gov and stroke.org to find out more. Use #StrokeAwarenessDay to post on social media.

GLOBAL EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND FITNESS MONTH

Every year in May, Global Employee Health and Fitness Month aims to improve the health of the global workforce. Through initiatives and helpful programs, the campaign encourages employers to engage their employees in healthful activities. It also provides a variety of wellness and fitness programs to complement already existing programs. Employers with wellness programs have healthier employees who are more productive. Wellness programs reduce overall healthcare costs and reduce illness and injury.

Employees who participate in wellness programs have lower stress levels, better overall health, and improved confidence, too. Challenge employees to pair up with partners to take the stairs or go for a walk on their lunch break. Take stretch breaks and eat healthy meals. Make sure to get plenty of rest and track your exercise, too. Join the movement and encourage others to join you.

GLOBAL EMPLOYEE HEALTH AND FITNESS MONTH

The National Association for Health and Fitness launched the observance in 1989 to encourage employers to invest in their employees’ health. Each year the campaign has grown from a national observance to a now global event.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #EmployeeHealthAndFitnessMonth

Employers can participate by offering wellness programs and incentives to employees who participate. Create challenges and opportunities to encourage employees to be physically active and focus on their health. Employees, encourage your employer to join the movement. Other ways to participate include:

  • Invite other co-workers to join you for a walk on your lunch break
  • Choose the farthest parking space or walk to work
  • Take the stairs
  • Use a standing desk
  • Participate in desk exercises

Use #EmployeeHealthAndFitnessMonth to share on social media.