Boy, May has a lot going on. In addition to Mother’s Day and Memorial Day, it is Mental Health Awareness Month, National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. It is Older Americans Month, which is a good reminder to really prioritize your well-being inside and out, at any age. Are you getting enough sleep? Are you following these exercise guidelines? Are you taking breaks to avoid burnout or making connections to offset feelings of loneliness? These are just some of the basic things worth checking out between planning your summer vacation and shopping for swimwear.
Read on for more suggestions on how to make the most of this month.
Take stock of your mental health. Everyone has their own personal definition of what it feels like to be emotionally well, but in the spirit of recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month, now is a good time to reflect on how you are feeling, what your specific needs are, and what you can improve. Maybe it’s time to schedule your first session with a therapist (or find a new one), talk to your doctor about treatment options, let go of something that no longer serves you, or invest more time in a therapeutic practice (meditation, spending time in nature) that always elevates you.
Try a fun new workout. May 4th isn’t just Star Wars Day; It’s also National Fitness Day. What better excuse to sign up for that fitness class – or any other exciting activity – you’ve always been curious about: line dancing for Cowboy Carter? Aerial yoga? Swinging a lightsaber?
Celebrate with a mocktail. Between the Kentucky Derby (which falls on May 4) and Mint Julep Day (May 30), you might be craving the sugary Southern cocktail. Or maybe you can’t let Cinco de Mayo pass without enjoying a spicy margarita. If you want the booze-free vibe, consider a non-alcoholic version of these festive drinks — like this one mint julep mocktail inspired by the one served at Disneyland or this spicy virgin margarita garnished with jalapeño.
Ladies, take care. National Women’s Health Week starts on May 12th (which is also Mother’s Day, for those who celebrate). Let yourself be inspired to make that doctor’s appointment you’ve been putting off, do a breast self-exam, or maybe just schedule a relaxing massage or an invigorating exercise class.
Ride your bike to work…or anywhere. Have you gone your entire life without realizing that Bike to Work Day existed? Well, it’s May 17th and it looks like a great way to get some exercise and reduce traffic congestion. But what if your commute to the office is particularly long — or, if you work remotely, so short that it’s the equivalent of sitting up straight in bed? It’s still worth hopping on your two-wheeler (or Peloton) for a quick bike ride after the clock. While the Harvard School of Public Health notes, cycling benefits cardiovascular health, improves mobility and coordination, builds muscle, and more.
Open your heart to artichokes. Artichokes are still at their best and are full of antioxidants, rich in fiber and great for digestion. If you’re buying fresh produce and don’t mind the messy preparation, a ‘steamed choke It’s a sublime aperitif. For a recipe you can make year-round using canned or jarred versions, fried artichoke hearts served with creamy garlic yogurt sauce It’s always a pleasure for everyone.
Stock up on sunscreen. May 27 is National Sunscreen Day, so you better use some — yes, even if it’s cloudy and even if you’re not planning on leaving the house. In fact, consider this a nudge to go to the pharmacy to buy a new bottle/spray/tube to replace the old one. expired in your bathroom cabinet. (Bonus: Sunscreen is considered FSA Eligibleif you contribute to a flexible savings account.)
Refresh yourself – and help others do the same. With temperatures rising and summer just around the corner, Heat Awareness Day on May 31 aims to emphasize the importance of avoiding heat illnesses – especially for those who work outdoors. In addition to know what symptoms to watch for and keep yourself and your loved ones (including pets!) cool, consider leaving bottles of ice-cold water for delivery and postal workers or keeping some in your car to hand out to anyone who may be suffering in the heat.
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