Every year, the World Health Organization chooses a part of our health to highlight. Whether it be mental health, gut and stomach health, etc. Last year the emphasis was on nurses and midwives. The on-call, sleep-deprived workers that have changed the health care industry. We have come to know that they valiantly fought at the frontlines during the pandemic and continue to do so.
World Health Day Origins
World Health Day started back in 1945 when officials in Brazil and China came together. They decided that we needed to create a national health organization independent from any government powers. Six months later, in July 1946 in New York, the Constitution of the World Health Organization was agreed upon. The World Health Organization entered into power on April 7, 1948. It was signed by 61 countries and remains a vital part of our lives. Known as the WHO they influence major health decisions that affect our Nation, as well as Countries around the world.
Eliminate Health Inequality Theme
Every year as we celebrate a theme for World Health Day, we take into account the counties’ global needs. This year the WHO is calling for action to eliminate health inequality. To obtain better health for all individuals with no one left behind. It seems that no matter how hard we fight in the movement of the health industry, the gains of such have not been shared equally across the nations. Nothing showed us that more than the Covid-19 pandemic that impacted all walks of life at extensive levels. The rich, the poor, and those socially and geographically disadvantaged.
Progress
Health is a basic human right that every person deserves regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, disability, and economic standing. Progress in tackling the inequalities among people all over the world has been slow and disproportionate. Working to overcome the cause of the inequality in individuals across the world the WHO called on leaders in 2021. Monitoring health inequalities and addressing causes to make sure everyone has working and living conditions that contribute to good health. The news we can all stand to hear and hope we can all look to. After facing a major pandemic in which thousands of lives were lost.
Living a Healthy Lifestyle
We all take our health for granted and the WHO is working to eliminate health inequality. However, we can do some things to live a healthier lifestyle in the meantime.
Diet: No we don’t mean eating less, but by eating more. By eating plenty of fresh, non-processed foods and making sure we drink 8 cups of water (that’s 4 Grande-sized cups). Eating at regular times throughout the day, not skipping breakfast, and even having small snacks between meals increases your metabolism. Make sure you discuss a meal plan with your doctor.
Exercise: Making sure we keep our hearts healthy will help us live longer. 30 minutes of aerobic activity per day will also help you sleep better as well.
Sleep: By exercising, you will challenge your body and find yourself worn out and ready to sleep at bedtime. One in four women either has trouble falling asleep and/or trouble staying asleep. Getting 7-8 hours of sleep in a normal cycle is important for your mental health.
Socialization: Hanging out with friends or taking that vacation can reduce stress and anxiety which is good for your mental health. It helps guard against depression, heart disease, and dementia. This is why not hitting up Disney World or Universal Studios will make you go crazy!
Visit Your Doctor: Visiting your doctor annually will help detect and tackle any health you may encounter before they become serious. We enjoy our lives more and bring more joy to others when we stay healthy.
