World Health Day, held every year on the 7th April, is dedicated to promoting the benefits of good health and wellbeing.

World Health Day (WHD) marks the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organisation (WHO) in 1948, and each year focuses on a specific public health concern. In addition to focusing on the journey to achieving Health For All, which is this year's theme, WHO will observe its 75th anniversary under the theme 75 years of improving public health.

On World Health Day, the benefits of good health and wellbeing are promoted, and all over the world, campaigns, including conferences, seminars, workshops, and activities, are organised. We’ve compiled some ideas for how you can get involved and celebrate World Health Day this year.

Get active

Regular exercise is important for staying healthy and fit. It helps to reduce stress, uplifts mood and improves body flexibility. According to expert recommendations, 150 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each week can help you to lose weight, become more mentally resilient and, most importantly, fight off risks of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, strokes and diabetes. This World Health Day, get active and your heart racing by going on a hike, cycle, walk, run or swim.

Meditate

Along with taking care of your physical health, it’s important that you pay attention to your mental wellbeing too. Add meditation and yoga to your daily routine or practice deep breathing exercises. Practicing mindful meditation, yoga and deep breathing relaxes you and calms your mind and body.

Eat healthily

We all know the saying, "You are what you eat". A balanced diet helps keep your body and mind healthy. This World Health Day, add wholesome, nutritious foods to your diet. Everyone should get their 5 a day, i.e., five portions of fresh fruit and vegetables, to get the necessary nutrients in the right amounts. Include lean protein in your diet, such as poultry, beans, fish and tofu. Avoid overeating and eat to the extent that your gut feels satiated. Stop eating before you feel completely full and give your body the time to digest your food properly. Snack on foods such as nuts and fruits and cut out junk, deep fried and processed foods.

Drink lots of water

Drinking enough water in a day is important to maintain the hydration levels in your body. Water acts as a natural cleanser for the organs and digestive system and helps in releasing harmful toxins from the body.

Avoid harmful substances

Get rid of any bad habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption. You can start with cutting down on these habits on World Health Day, and eventually quit them altogether.

Get plenty of restful sleep

Sleeping well is the key to good health and well-being. Sleeping has a direct impact on your mood, metabolism, body weight, memory, stress levels, immune system and cardiovascular health. Sound sleep at night helps relax the body, calm the mind, and relieve stress.

Get a health check

Even if you feel healthy, it is important to get your medical check-ups regularly to be doubly sure of your health. Book yourself in for a full health check with your doctor. High blood pressure can go undetected for years, and contributes to your risk of heart attacks and stroke, amongst other illnesses. Your body fat percentage: (the amount of fat you’re carrying around) can increase the risk of various diseases and problems, including cancers. And your visceral fat rating (the no-visible fat that surrounds your organs) can contribute to your risk of developing diabetes.

Get involved in World Health Day campaigns

You can check out the World Health Organisation website to learn more about different World Health Day campaigns and how you can participate. For further information on World Health Day, visit the WHO website for WHO’s 7 + 5 health stories for everyone, everywhere.

At Allianz Care, our mission is to keep you well. Whether you need help, advice or support, our Helpline is here for you 24/7. Contact us today.

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World Health Day

World Health Day, held every year on the 7th April, is dedicated to promoting the benefits of good health and wellbeing.

Get active

Meditate

Eat healthily

Drink lots of water

Avoid harmful substances

Get plenty of restful sleep

Get a health check

Get involved in World Health Day campaigns

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