The September Pause: A Month to Reset and Reflect
September is perfectly placed as the final month of summer and, in a few short weeks, the first month of fall.
September offers us the opportunity to pause, give thanks for the bounty of the past 8 months, and consider what we’ll do with the months ahead. September acts as a transition month, gently guiding us from the high energy summer to a less intense fall. This change-over period is the ideal time to check-in with your health and well-being.
Oxford’s definition of health is basic “The state of being free from illness or injury.” 1
Merriam Webster’s definition of health goes deeper to include the totality of health, “The condition of being sound in body, mind, or spirit.” 2
Dictionary.com infuses the definition of health with active energy, “The general condition of the body or mind with reference to soundness and vigor.” 3
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), health is, "A state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity." 4
Good health is the foundation of well-being—the state of good mental health, high life satisfaction, and a sense of meaning and purpose.5 Together, good health and well-being are the key to how we feel about the quality of our life. A slight shift in decision making, perspective and/or lifestyle habits gives us the ability to change course at any point in time.
Thus, the September pause is the perfect time to check in.
Take Some Time to Consider
Consider these thought provoking questions:
- “What motivates me to stay healthy?”
- “What do I wish I spent more time on doing 3 years ago?”
- “What can I do today that I was incapable of doing last year?”
- “If time and money weren’t a concern, what would I love to do?”
- “Do I need to schedule any health screenings or appointments?”
There is no right or wrong answer…just what is. Your assessment gives you valuable insight to use to make choices regarding health, time, and resources. Taking time for reflection and evaluation during the September Pause will provide the information you need to take the next best step toward greater health and well being.
Sources:
- https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/health
- https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/health?src=search-dict-box
- https://www.dictionary.com/browse/health
- https://www.who.int/about/who-we-are/frequently-asked-questions
- https://www.cdc.gov/hrqol/wellbeing.htm
Information presented by W(h)ealth should not be relied upon to determine diet, make a medical diagnosis, or determine treatment for a medical condition. The information is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. Consult a doctor and/or medical professional before making any health changes, especially any changes related to a specific diagnosis or condition.
