Ways to celebrate your body this International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is celebrated on 8th March every year. It recognises the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women, and raises awareness about gender equality and women’s rights.

It hasn’t always been possible for women to celebrate their strength, wellbeing and health. Taking exercise as an example, it wasn’t until the 1960s and 70s that campaigns for women to take part in major running marathon events were successful. In fact, the Boston Marathon 1967 saw the only female runner tackled by one of the organisers. He attempted to remove her bib number and disqualify her. Women have been told not to sweat in public. Required to exercise in dresses and high heels. And given a seemingly endless list of excuses about why it wasn’t ‘safe’ to exercise. There were even rumours that a woman’s uterus would fall out if she exerted herself!

Fortunately, we live in more empowering times, when women’s health and fitness is not just accepted, but breaking new boundaries every day.

However you mark International Women’s Day, celebrate your unique and powerful body. It’s one of the simplest and most self-loving ways to pay homage to the women who fought for the right to work out, think and eat how you want!

Move

Exercise doesn’t have to mean pounding your way through a 10k or grunting some weights in the gym (although go for it if that’s what makes you happy!). On International Women’s Day, celebrate the freedom you have to move your body in a way that feels good to you. That might be:

  • Climbing
  • Walking
  • Dancing
  • Tai Chi
  • Aerobics
  • Cycling
  • Gentle yoga
  • The list is as endless as the individuals in the world!

What movement will you do today that lets you celebrate the strength and freedom of your body? Any and all movement counts, and you can log it in our app to track your progress. Click here to find out more.

Eat

Eating for wellness is the ultimate act of self-care. It’s the best way to show your body love on International Women’s Day!

Take a moment to think about what makes your body feel good. Focus on whole foods, fruits and vegetables, and lean proteins to give your body the best building blocks for health.

If you need some inspiration, we have tons of in-app recipe ideas for different dietary requirements and seasons. Click here to find out more.

Think

Taking control of your own mindset is one of the most empowering things you can do. On International Women’s Day, spend some time meditating or practising mindfulness. We have some great in-app articles on meditation and mindfulness. Click here to find out more.

Get quiet with your thoughts and notice what your inner chatter wants to tell you. Find some empowering swaps for any negative self talk you experience. Use a mantra if it feels helpful, or simply challenge what you’re currently telling yourself. Asking yourself how you’d talk to a friend or your daughter in the same situation can be a helpful way to rethink unkind patterns of self talk.

Whatever you do this International Women’s Day, we hope you’re able to celebrate yourself - body and mind.