Category: January Month

  • WORLD HEALTH ESTEEM MONTH | January

    WORLD HEALTH ESTEEM MONTH

    World Health Esteem Month in January is a month to appreciate ourselves for who we are now and the small choices we can make to enhance our lives without making any resolution.

    #WorldHealthEsteemMonth

    What is “Health Esteem”? Health Esteem is a new category of fitness and diet that integrates positive self-esteem, embracing who you are now, along with changes you would like to make. Health Esteem is grounded in accepting and embracing the person you are today and championing who you wish to become. World Health Esteem Month challenges the traditional notion that January is a month of depriving ourselves via empty promises and resolutions based on social “ideals.”

    Historically the tradition of making New Year’s Resolutions dates back to about 4,000 years. Unfortunately, falling short of those resolutions is a tradition nearly as old, which can be a discouraging way to start the year.

    Self-improvement is great, but self-improvement that starts at the expense of our self-esteem is destructive. This is why so many people start, but aren’t set up for real success with their New Year’s resolutions.

    A New, Sustainable Tradition for Wellbeing

    The alternative to this pattern of endless resolutions, annual self-judgment and comparisons driven by the Imperfection Economy is Health Esteem. This healthier tradition integrates healthy choices with a positive mindset for overall wellbeing. One in which we replace the New Year’s ritual of guilty goal-setting, deprivation, and eventual failure with a month spent appreciating ourselves for who we are. Now is the time to celebrate the tiny choices we can make each day to enhance our lives and even achieve better outcomes than when we thought we had to bully ourselves into New Year’s Resolutions.

    Health Esteem Is a Skill You Can Learn

    Practicing Health Esteem leads to better choices. Instead of working out because you’re unsatisfied with yourself, you exercise because you value yourself. This mindset allows you to do it in a way which is rewarding as much in the moment as it is over the long term. Similarly, instead of making food choices to punish yourself into weight loss you will start to make choices in support of taking care of yourself, ultimately making you feel better to build on your Health Esteem. 

    You Can’t Fail at Health Esteem

    Every day of January is an opportunity to succeed. It can be as simple as checking in on 10 Tiny Moments that can have a dramatic impact on your Health Esteem.

    Spend the first month of 2023 celebrating who you are and, for once, feel great about yourself from day one! 

    10 Tiny Ways to Improve Your Health Esteem

    1. Wake Up On The 1st Alarm.
    2. Do the Hardest Thing First.
    3. Make Time To Eat Breakfast.
    4. Replace Dirty Energy With Clean Energy.
    5. Plan Lunch The Day Before.
    6. Swap Afternoon Treats For Superfood Desserts.
    7. Give Energy.
    8. Do A Post-Work Reflection.
    9. Slow Dinner Down.
    10. No-Screens 30 Minutes Before Bed.

    BONUS: Take a Tiny Moment At Any Time of Day to appreciate yourself and be grateful.

    JOIN IN THE CELEBRATION

    A few other easy ways you can observe World Health Esteem Month are:

    • Use the hashtag #WorldHealthEsteemMonth on social media to show how you are focusing on improving your Health Esteem as opposed to outdated “resolutions.”
    • Journal daily about your small changes and successes along the way. 
    • Print out the 10 Tiny Ways to Improve Your Health Esteem and try to incorporate them into your daily routine throughout January (and beyond!)
    • Sign up for a free 14-day trial of BODi, a leading on demand streaming platform from the Beachbody Company, at www.BeachbodyOnDemand.com.

    Make a Pledge to Improve Your Health Esteem this January 

    The first step to starting a long-term Health Esteem Routine is appreciating who you are, what you have now and finding gratitude for what got you here. And that is 100% free. If you don’t think you have anything to be grateful for or optimistic about, keep looking. This is important because you don’t just receive gratitude and optimism – that’s not how it works.

    You can’t wait for things to be great and then decide “Okay, I’ll be grateful for that.” You need to bring perspective to it in order to see it. The first step to starting a long-term Health Esteem Routine is appreciating who you are, what you have now and finding gratitude for what got you here. And that pledge is 100% free to make now.

    Make a Pledge to Improve Your Health Esteem this January 

    The first step to starting a long-term Health Esteem Routine is appreciating who you are, what you have now and finding gratitude for what got you here. And that is 100% free. If you don’t think you have anything to be grateful for or optimistic about, keep looking. This is important b. Because you don’t just receive gratitude and optimism – that’s not how it works. You can’t wait for things to be great and then decide “Okay, I’ll be grateful for that.” You need to bring perspective to it in order to see it. The first step to starting a long-term Health Esteem Routine is appreciating who you are, what you have now and finding gratitude for what got you here. And that pledge is 100% free to make now.

    FOUNDER

    Headquartered in Southern California, Beachbody is a leading digital fitness and nutrition subscription company with over two decades of creating innovative content and powerful brands. The Beachbody Company is the parent company of the Beachbody On Demand streaming platform (BOD) including its live digital streaming subscription BODi, and the Beachbody Bike powered by MYXfitness, the Company’s connected indoor bike. For more information, please visit The Beachbody Company website.

  • NATIONAL CBD MONTH – January

    NATIONAL CBD MONTH

    Every January, chill down from the holidays the natural way during National CBD Month. This observance recognizes the natural hemp product that’s taking the wellness world by storm!

    Over the last few years, millions of Americans have learned about the benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) as it has become more widely available. With an ever-growing variety of products to choose from – tinctures, capsules, topicals, edibles, bath bombs, patches, dog treats, and more – consumers have a better chance than ever to find the right CBD regimen that works for them.

    CBD has been especially popular for fans of natural wellness products since it comes directly from the hemp plant. Unlike its cousin THC, CBD brings the plant-based power of hemp without the “high” often associated with cannabis plants.

    CBD Emerges from the Shadows

    Because of the legal ban on cannabis, CBD and its properties were long obscured by stigma. Nonetheless, ongoing scientific research has been uncovering many potentials for human wellbeing, which CBD users around the world have personally testified to.

    The 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized all products of hemp, which is technically defined as cannabis plants or any part of the plant with less than 0.3% THC. With hemp-derived CBD, you know you’re getting all the potency of the plant without any of the psychoactive components.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalCBDMonth

    If you haven’t tried CBD before, National CBD Month is a great time to start. Talk to your physician to discuss whether and how CBD can fit into your overall wellness routine. Ask your friends about their favorite CBD products. Research suppliers to make sure you’re getting high-quality, unadulterated CBD.

    Don’t forget to use the hashtag #NationalCBDMonth throughout the month of January to help continue spreading awareness.

    NATIONAL CBD MONTH HISTORY

    cbdMD founded National CBD Month to celebrate the increased availability and plentiful products helping people around the world. The first observance of the month takes place in 2020.
    The Registrar at National Day Calendar® proclaimed National CBD Month to be observed throughout January, annually.

    About cbdMD

    cbdMD is the Official Founder of National CBD Month and aims to provide a wide array of CBD products for people and their pets at an affordable price. They only use U.S. hemp grown with organic farming methods, ensuring that every product is safe, effective, and THC-free.

    cbdMD also founded National CBD Day, first celebrated on Aug. 8, 2018. The holiday has already gone viral among retailers and consumers, helping to raise the profile of CBD around the country.

  • NATIONAL SOUP MONTH | January

    NATIONAL SOUP MONTH

    In the deep chill of January,  National Soup Month warms us up with piping hot bowls of comfort! We all have our favorites; Mom’s chicken noodle doesn’t compare to anyone else’s, and Grandma’s borscht can’t be beat. A savory broth filled with vegetables and seasonings envelops home with a delicious aroma. National Soup Month calls the family to gather and enjoy a hearty meal together!

    Gather up your recipes and fixings. Where to start? When it comes to soups, there are so many choices! Creamy squash. Split pea. Hearty beef and vegetable. Are you hungry, yet? Whether you make French onion or baked potato soup, we know these filling soups are a staple of winter meals. It’s a month-long celebration, so make them all!

    Soups not only warm us up on cold winter days, but they fulfill our need for nutrients lost working hard in the elements. If you’ve been out shoveling snow, chopping wood, or caring for animals, a soup full of vegetables, minerals and oils replenish the energy lost. Chicken noodle soup is known for its healing properties, as well.  What better way to stay healthy than to eat a bountiful bowl of chicken tortilla or tomato soup?

    And when we make a large kettle of soup, there’s plenty to share making the soup a social meal. If there is soup leftover, it stores and reheats easily.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalSoupMonth

    Make your favorite soups all month long and try some new ones while you’re at it. Use #NationalSoupMonth to post on social media and spread the word. Add croutons to your soup and check out the National Day Calendar recipe page for recipe ideas.

    NATIONAL SOUP MONTH HISTORY

    Campbell’s founded National Soup Month in 1986.

     

  • NATIONAL SLOW COOKING MONTH – January

    NATIONAL SLOW COOKING MONTH

    National Slow Cooking Month in January encourages us to make delicious meals and maximize our time by using our slow cookers. Also known by the brand name, Crock-Pot, slow cookers come in a variety of sizes and styles.

    Nearly every family in the United States owns at least one slow cooker. If they don’t, they know someone who does. Irving Naxon invented the slow cooker and applied for a patent in 1936. Eventually, he sold his patent to Rival who later produced the Crock-Pot.

    The low-temperature cooking unit made it possible to cook foods slowly at lower temperatures. Unlike some kitchen devices, like the toaster or a juicer, the slow cooker filled the need for every meal. Home cooks developed recipes for breakfast, lunch, supper, and dessert.

    While other modern kitchen items overshadowed the slow cooker in sales, it still has an important place on the counter. The slow cooker is a timekeeper of all our favorite celebrations and comfort foods. Consider every potluck, Superbowl, and family gathering over the years with slow cookers lined up filled with each cook’s best recipe kept piping hot – nacho dip, chili, baked beans, pulled pork, mac & cheese.  The list goes on and so does the slow cooker.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #SlowCookingMonth

    Break out your slow cooker and whip up something delicious. Use #SlowCookingMonth to share on social media.

    • If you’re new to slow cooking, try the recipes that come with your slow cooker. They are tested for your model.
    • Once the cooking starts, only remove the lid to stir as needed. Moisture loss will cause your meal to become dry.
    • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Today’s slow cookers have multiple settings as well as a warm setting after the food is finished cooking.

    NATIONAL SLOW COOKING MONTH HISTORY

    We were unable to identify the founder of National Slow Cooking Month.

  • NATIONAL SLAVERY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION MONTH – January

    NATIONAL SLAVERY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION MONTH

    In January, National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month brings together law enforcement and organizations across the nation in an strive to eliminate human trafficking. Join the effort to raise awareness and prevent human trafficking in your community.

    According to the International Labor Organization, approximately 40 million human trafficking victims exist worldwide. Through a variety of tactics, including violence and threats, traffickers force their victims into labor or commercial sex. Every victim is forced against their will to comply. Human trafficking impacts all races, every class, religion, and gender. It even spans every ability. As a result, the issue belongs to every community in the country.

    Despite the bleak picture human trafficking paints, there are ways to take action. Become informed and get involved.

    HOW TO OBSERVE 

    Don’t let human trafficking become a part of your story. Find out how you can help change the narrative. Use #SlaveryHumanTraffickingPreventionMonth to share on social media.

    • Knowledge – Learn how human trafficking is happening. Visit www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign to inform yourself about what human trafficking looks like.
    • Get involved – If you suspect human trafficking report it. In the U.S. call 1-866-347-2423. For more information visit www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign. You can also volunteer through organizations committed to eliminating human trafficking. Contact local, state, and regional service organizations to volunteer time, services, or a donation.
    • Get help – If you need help, call 1-888-373-7888. Visit www.dhs.gov/blue-campaign

    NATIONAL SLAVERY AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION MONTH HISTORY

    National Day of Human Trafficking Awareness is January 11 as designated by the United States Senate in 2007. President Barack Obama increased awareness by declaring January National Slavery and Human Trafficking Month in 2010.

  • NATIONAL BRAILLE LITERACY MONTH – January

    NATIONAL BRAILLE LITERACY MONTH

    January recognizes the legally blind and visually impaired for National Braille Literacy Month. The observance raises awareness of the importance of Braille to the blind and visually impaired community. As audio technology progresses, the use of Braille dwindles. However, its significance remains, especially in the workplace and the classroom. The month offers the opportunity to learn about and appreciate Braille. It’s also an excellent time to explore Braille’s history.

    Fast Facts About Braille

    1. Braille is not a language. Most languages have their own Braille system.
    2. Louis Braille created this system of reading around age 12. Unfortunately, a tragic accident blinded him at the age of 3. Braille became official in 1824.
    3. 6-dot Braille cells have 63 possible combinations. Each “cell” in Braille is arranged specifically with two dots across and three dots down.
    4. Braille exists for feet, too! Businesses have to meet standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act. One of those standards is to have Braille on the ground to alert the visually impaired that they are approaching a dangerous area. You know those big, bright, yellow strips you see at the ends of sidewalks and sometimes as you walk out of a store or restaurant? That’s Braille for your feet.
    5. Most legally blind children in the U.S. don’t use Braille resources. Believe it or not, 34% of the more than 59 thousand legally blind American children are considered non-readers.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalBrailleLiteracyMonth

    Use #NationalBrailleLiteracyMonth, #BrailleLiteracyMonth, or #BrailleLiteracy to post on social media about how you are taking part in National Braille Literacy Month. To celebrate National Braille Literacy Month, reach out to someone you know who is blind or visually impaired and have them show you how they read Braille. You’ll be amazed at the process! You can also help by connecting with the American Foundation for the Blind.

    NATIONAL BRAILLE LITERACY MONTH HISTORY

    In our research, we were unable to find the creator of National Braille Literacy Month.

  • NATIONAL HOBBY MONTH – January

    NATIONAL HOBBY MONTH

    January is National Hobby Month, the perfect time of year to pick up a new hobby, or get back into an old one that you haven’t thought about in a while! The great thing about having a hobby is that it can take your mind off the pressure of work or other daily stresses. Sit down and think about what you really love to do. Consider what sparks passion in your life or what makes you curious. Finding a good hobby and giving yourself time to take part in it on a daily or weekly basis is sure to make you happier, and maybe even healthier.

    “It can be coins or sports or politics or horses or music or faith… the saddest people I’ve ever met in life are the ones who don’t care deeply about anything at all. Passion and satisfaction go hand in hand, and without them, any happiness is only temporary, because there’s nothing to make it last.” -Nicholas Sparks, Dear John

    Great Hobbies to Try
    • Get to the gym 5 days a week. Running on a treadmill, lifting weights, or taking workout classes improve your overall health and can be fun, too!
    • Try gardening. It stimulates your mind, involves a little physical activity, and it’s rewarding. Research shows gardening can even help improve your mood, lower your risk of dementia, and relieves stress.
    • Start cooking at home more often. If you can learn to cook wholesome, nutritious meals for yourself and your family, you’ll save money and have a healthier lifestyle. Cooking can also be therapeutic in itself, and will allow you some alone time to create beautiful dishes!
    • Take up yoga. No matter your age, gender, or level of physical fitness, yoga will increase your strength and flexibility. It also gives people clarity, peace of mind, and is overall a big stress reliever for anybody.
    • Adopt a pet! Animals have been proven to improve mental health for many people. Research shows owning and bonding with a pet decreases the risk of depression, anxiety, and stress.
    • Volunteer. Being a part of your community and lending a hand without getting paid in return has shown to incredibly improve mental health and give people a sense of fulfillment.
    • Read or write a book. Picking up a good book, journaling, and blogging help clear your mind. They can temporarily take you to another place or time, allow you to express your thoughts freely, and even improve your vocabulary.
    • Finally… Travel! Take a week or two off work and go experience another culture. Whether you go on a tropical vacation and spend days on the beach, or head to the cold snowy mountains to hit the slopes, traveling helps to shift your perspective, and can even help you discover yourself.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalHobbyMonth

    Use #NationalHobbyMonth to post on social media. Talk about a new hobby you’ve picked up or better yet, post a photo or video of you doing it to get others inspired to do the same! Other ways to celebrate the month include:

    • Share your hobby with others by giving a class.
    • Make gifts of your hobby.
    • Start a hobby group so you can socialize, too.
    • Turn your hobby into a career.

    You know what they say. If you make your hobby your job, you’ll never have to work a day in your life.

    NATIONAL HOBBY MONTHHISTORY

    In our research, we were unable to find the creator of National Hobby Month.

  • NATIONAL HOT TEA MONTH – January

    NATIONAL HOT TEA MONTH

    National Hot Tea Month reminds us that the best way to survive the bitterly cold January days is with a long bath, candles lit, and cup after cup of hot tea. Do yourself a favor and enjoy tea as much as you want this month!

    We’ll break down for you what kinds of tea are good for your health at certain times of the day in just a minute. First, have you ever wondered where tea came from, and what made someone put leaves in hot water for flavor? Well, legend says in 2737 BC, a Chinese emperor was sitting under a tree while his servant boiled drinking water when some leaves blew into it. The emperor happened to be a renowned herbalist, and he decided to taste the infusion that had just been created by accident. He loved it, and that’s where tea comes from!

    Tea Benefits

    • Tea is packed with antioxidants. These help keep our bodies “young” and protect them from toxins.
    • It has less caffeine than coffee. (The kinds that do contain caffeine) usually contain about 50% less than coffee which means you can drink it without affecting your nervous system.
    • Research shows a correlation between tea and heart health. A recent study says people who drink tea have a 20% less chance of having a stroke or heart attack than those who don’t.
    • It can help with weight loss, especially when paired with a well-balanced diet and exercise. Tea is usually calorie-free, and it can give you energy and cause your body to burn more calories throughout the day.
    • It’s an immune system booster. Studies show that tea helps immune cells reach their targets more quickly.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalHotTeaMonth

    Sip some tea and post an aesthetically pleasing photo of it to social media using #NationalHotTeaMonth, #HotTeaMonth, or #TeaTime. The best part is, there’s a tea for literally any and every time of day! Some is packed with natural caffeine, other kinds are caffeine-free and created for you to drink at night to promote a deep, healthy night’s sleep. When is the best time for tea?

    Tea Times

    Early Morning: To start your day off right, try white tea first thing when you wake up. It’s gentle on a stomach that has been fasting (which we do when we sleep) and has a light, aromatic quality. For a big caffeine booster right away, choose a high-quality white tea and boil with extremely hot water to bring out a lot of the caffeine.

    Mid-Morning: Around 10:00 or 11:00 in the morning, move to a green tea. This will help give your metabolism a kick start, and it has a very light, uplifting, approachable flavor.

    Lunch: Incorporate some tea with your lunch every day… Black tea is recommended at this time of day for a few reasons. It’s widely available, and easy to find if you’re out and about to grab a midday bite to eat. It’s also great paired with food, and you can choose your level of caffeine depending on how your energy levels are that day.

    Post-Lunch: Pu-erh tea is a great choice for after lunch because it only has a small amount of caffeine. Enough to help ward off that afternoon slump, but not so much that you’ll be up all night. It’s a perfect follow-up to a healthy, well-balanced lunch.

    Evening: There are several great options for nighttime tea… Stay away from caffeine at this time of night, or you won’t get a restful night’s sleep. Some good teas to try that’ll calm you down and promote a good night’s sleep are Chamomile, Valerian Root, Lavender, Lemon Balm, and Passionflower. Give them a try, do a little experimenting, and figure out which ones work best for you.

    NATIONAL HOT TEA MONTH HISTORY

    The Tea Council of the USA was founded in 1950 and recognizes National Hot Tea Month every January.

  • NATIONAL OATMEAL MONTH – January

    NATIONAL OATMEAL MONTH

    In January, National Oatmeal Month declares it’s possible to create healthy changes with this grain. Celebrate all month long by incorporating oatmeal in your breakfast and snacks. We will show you how!

    Oatmeal has earned a reputation for being heart-healthy and soothing itchy skin. Beyond several other possible health benefits, steel-cut oats add a nutty flavor and texture to your meal. If you’re looking for a softer and quicker cook to your oats, rolled oats cook almost instantly!

    • Add steel-cut oats, fresh fruit, and nuts to yogurt.
    • Whip up some instant oatmeal and add a tablespoon of peanut butter and dried fruit.
    • Mix together 1 cup steel-cut oats, 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/2 cup ground flaxseed, 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, 1/3 cup honey, and 1 tablespoon chia seeds. Roll into 1 inch balls and store in the refrigerator or freezer. They make excellent mid-day snacks and are packed with protein, low in sugar, and when you choose natural peanut butter or powdered peanut butter, has no cholesterol.
    • Granola comes in a variety of combinations. Don’t hesitate to mix up your granola. Try a spicy blend or a tropical version.
    • Baked oatmeal offers a hot breakfast option that can be made ahead of time and reheated as needed. Customize it to fit your family’s needs. Try one from our recipes.
    • Add oats to thicken your soups and a nutty flavor.
    • Layer yogurt, fruit, and granola for a fun parfait.
    • Celebrate National Oatmeal Muffin Day on December 19!

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalOatmealDay

    The whole month is open to oatmeal opportunities! Oatmeal adds texture and flavor to many recipes. Try a new recipe or share an old favorite. Try incorporating oatmeal into your meals every day.

    • Add to smoothies.
    • Mix into overnight yogurt.
    • Add to your baked goods.
    • Share oatmeal recipes with others.
    • Make a list of all the ways you can enjoy oatmeal.

    Share your favorite oatmeal recipes and tips. Use #NationalOatmealMonth to share on social media.

    NATIONAL OATMEAL DAY HISTORY

    We were unable to identify the source of National Oatmeal Month.

     

  • NATIONAL BLOOD DONOR MONTH – January

    NATIONAL BLOOD DONOR MONTH

    January is the beginning of a new year and the perfect time to start the year celebrating National Blood Donor Month.

    Due to increased seasonal illnesses during the winter months and inclement weather conditions, donations of blood and platelets decline, and demand increases. The American Red Ross and Blood Banks of America encourage everyone can donate to continue their donations. Those who have never donated, to make an appointment. Blood donation is safer than ever before and saves lives. Millions of people including cancer patients, organ recipients, and victims of accidents; rely on blood donations from people like you and me.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalBloodDonorMonth

    Give blood. Don’t wait for a disaster. Someone needs blood now! Contact the American Red Cross or your local blood bank for more information. Use #NationalBloodDonorMonth and #GiveBlood to share on social media. Here are some of the biggest reasons giving blood is so important.

    1. About 36,000 units of red blood cells and 7,000 units of platelets are needed every single day in the U.S.
    2. The most requested blood type by hospitals is type O. This kind of blood can be transfused to patients of all blood types, so it’s always in great demand and very short supply. Only 7% of people in the U.S. have type O.
    3. A single-car accident victim may need up to 100 pints of blood to survive.
    4. About 6.8 million people donate blood every year in the U.S.
    5. 38% of our population is eligible to donate, but less than 10% actually do.
    6. Donating blood is a simple, safe process. All you have to do is register, take a mini-medical history test, donate, and then accept free refreshments like water, Gatorade, granola bars, etc.
    7. A single donation from a single patient can help more than one person.

    NATIONAL BLOOD DONOR MONTH HISTORY

    President Richard Nixon proclaimed January as National Blood Donor Month for the first time on December 31, 1969, as requested by Senate Joint Resolution 154.