November is a month brimming with opportunities to focus on wellbeing, raise awareness about crucial issues, and support important causes. This November wellbeing days focus on stress, men's mental health and activism - let's explore what they mean for individuals and communities.
- National Stress Awareness Day (November 1st)
National Stress Awareness Day marks the beginning of a month filled with wellbeing activities. Stress is an everyday reality for many people, and its impact on mental and physical health cannot be understated. This day encourages us to recognise the signs of stress and learn how to manage it effectively.
Stress can be triggered by various factors, from work and relationships to health concerns. On this day, take a moment to evaluate your stress levels and consider implementing stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine. One of our speakers and regular blog contributors, Nick Kientsch, will be running a workshop called 'Manage Stress Like a Monk' where he shares 3 of the most impactful practises he learnt whilst living as a Buddhist monk. All the details on how to get in contact about our workshops and sessions are available at the bottom of this blog! We have several stress and mental health related sessions that would be perfect for National Stress Awareness Day, view them here.
- Movember (Throughout November)
Movember is a global movement that takes place throughout the entire month of November. It focuses on men's health, specifically prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention. Men are often less likely to discuss their health issues, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and treatment. Movember encourages men to grow moustaches (or "mo's") to raise awareness and funds for these critical health concerns.
In addition to sporting a moustache, individuals can participate in various events and initiatives organised by the Movember Foundation. The ultimate goal is to create a world where men live happier, healthier, and longer lives. Consider joining the movement in your workplace by getting a team together to grow a mo, participate in a run, or simply starting a conversation about men's health issues.
- International Men's Day (November 19th)
International Men's Day is a day to celebrate men's achievements and contributions to society while also highlighting the challenges they face. It's an opportunity to focus on issues such as men's mental health, positive male role models, and raising awareness about men's rights.
One of the primary goals of International Men's Day is to foster positive masculinity, encourage men to be good role models, and promote gender equality. It's a day for discussing men's health, mental health, and emotional wellbeing, and for encouraging men to seek help when they need it. Our founder Rob will be running an International Men's Day Retreat on November 19th with his men's group Uncommon Man, co-found of Uncommon Man, Josh Connolly, and other guest speakers. All profits will go to the Movember charity, so it knocks off 2 of the great November wellbeing occasions in one!
- 16 Days of Activism Against Domestic Abuse (November 25th - December 10th)
The 16 Days of Activism Against Domestic Abuse is an international campaign that begins on November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and concludes on December 10th, Human Rights Day. This campaign draws attention to the issue of domestic abuse, which affects millions of people worldwide.
During these 16 days, various organisations and individuals come together to raise awareness about domestic violence, provide support to survivors, and advocate for policy changes to prevent and address this issue. It's a time to challenge the social norms and attitudes that perpetuate domestic abuse and promote gender equality.
Participating in the 16 Days of Activism can take many forms, from attending awareness-raising events to supporting local domestic violence shelters or educational programs. It's a crucial opportunity to stand up against domestic abuse and make a difference in your community.
Another of our speakers Ayan Said, founder and director of Voicing Voices, runs a powerful workshop providing insights into some of the causes and consequences of domestic abuse. It enables participants to take an active role in supporting victims, survivors and understand some of the reasons why perpetrators continue the cycle of abuse.
In conclusion, November 2023 is a month filled with significant wellbeing days that address various aspects of health and societal issues. National Stress Awareness Day encourages us to take a step back and focus on managing stress, while Movember emphasises the importance of men's health. International Men's Day celebrates men and highlights the issues they face, including mental health. The 16 Days of Activism Against Domestic Abuse is a vital campaign that advocates for the elimination of domestic violence.
If you are interested in more information on any of the sessions for November Wellbeing Days we mentioned above, please do get in contact at hello@thatday.uk and we will happily send over details!
