How to take part in Global Wellness Day 2019

Salons, spas and industry organisations are showing their support for Global Wellness Day (June 8), which focuses on living well physically, emotionally and spiritually. Will you be taking part?

The day will see an array of free celebrations and initiatives taking place across the world, with the theme this year focusing on the importance of small, positive gestures. 

Paul Gerrard, Gerrard International’s communications director, was named one of two UK ambassadors for this year's Global Wellness Day (GWD). “I’ve been asked whether I feel we have too many days dedicated to mental health and wellness. The truth is, sadly for most people, there are not enough,” commented Gerrard. 

“Global Wellness Day isn’t about that one day, it’s about the other 364 days and what you do with them. In short, no one ever got sick from having too many days of wellness.” 

Gerrard told Professional Beauty that the distributor’s spa and salon accounts would be encouraged to take part in a way that suits their offer and clientele – Gerrard International distributes major brands including Jessica, BeautyLab and its own Mii products. 

Last year, more than 4,000 events were held around the world, offering free fitness classes, nutrition workshops and mindfulness classes. This event comes at a poignant time, with the World Health Organization (WHO) announcing it's recognising burnout as a medical condition. 

What events are being held?

Global beauty therapy association Cidesco is getting involved by holding a walking challenge for its members, aiming to achieve an overall goal of 500,000 steps between participants. 

In the UK, GWD will coincide with the launch of new fitness retreat Escape at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire. To celebrate, the hotel will offer guests and members a free taster day with outdoor Pilates, a spin session that also combines a core workout, and a rejuvenating stretch class. 

Gaia Spa in Devon is involved again this year, holding free yoga and wellness lifestyle education for more than 200 people.

GWD was founded by Aksoy Belgin and has the ultimate aim of raising awareness of the importance of wellness practices around the world through complimentary health and wellness activities. Last year's event had a children's wellness theme.  

For more information on how to take part, visit the GWD website. 

What will you be doing to celebrate? Tell us below.