Why August is the Perfect Time for Wellness
This month for many in the UK means longer days and warm evenings. But it is also designated as National Wellness Month, as a campaign started by Live Love Spa in 2018 to encourage individuals to prioritise and improve their overall well-being.
The message is strong and powerful reminder to slow down, reflect and make your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing a top priority. At Healthscreen UK, we see August not just as another awareness month or campaign but as a launchpad for lifelong wellness habits. Whether you are looking for reducing stress, improving fitness, eating better, or simply reconnecting with yourself, this month offers the perfect opportunity to start.
What is National Wellness Month?
Observed every month of the year, this campaign is here to encourage individuals and organisations to prioritise and promote well-being. It serves as a reminder to focus on own self and develop better healthier habits for an improved overall quality of life.
The main emphasis of this campaign is the importance of holistic health, encompassing mental, physical, and emotional well-being. A month full of Encouraging individuals to incorporate activities such as regular work-out, balanced nutrition, mindfulness practices, sufficient sleep, and social connection into their daily routines. Unlike the fad diets or “quick fixes” this month promotes a well sustainable habits you can realistically maintain year-round.
Why does it matter in the UK in 2025?
The latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) wellbeing survey revealed that UK adults report high anxiety levels. Coupled with rising rates of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and burnout the need for preventive wellness has never been clear. Here are why these factors highlight the importance of this campaign:
- Burnout
- High anxiety levels
- Rising rates of obesity and cardiovascular disease
National Wellness Month matters because:
- It normalises self-care, making it something we actively prioritise, not just a luxury.
- It encourages prevention by catching health issues before it escalates.
- It builds community with shared challenges and goals helping us feel supported.
- It boosts productivity and mood, especially in workplace settings.
By focusing on these you can take control of your health, improve quality of life, and contribute to a healthier and more resilient society.
The Pillars of Wellness
Wellness is multifaceted and it encompasses various interconnected aspects of an individual’s life. The core idea behind this is balanced and intentionally focused on multiple areas contributing to overall health and happiness.
The widely recognised framework is the Eight Dimensions of Wellness, which includes:
- Physical Wellness – Maintaining a healthy or fit body through exercise, nutrition, sleep and managing health conditions.
- Emotional Wellness – Understanding and managing emotions effectively while coming out of stress while building resilience.
- Social Wellness – Developing and nurturing positive relationships and a sense of belonging to a society.
- Intellectual Wellness – Making oneself busy in a stimulating mental activity, expanding knowledge and embracing curiosity.
- Spiritual Wellness – Finding purpose and meaning of life, aligning actions with personal values, and exploring a sense of connect to something greater than oneself.
- Occupational Wellness – Being satisfied and fulfilled with your work and also balancing work with other aspects of life, and other opportunities for professional growth.
- Environmental Wellness – Living in harmony with one’s surroundings, both natural and built, and caring for the environment.
- Financial Wellness – Managing finances effectively to achieve the sense of security, stability, and satisfaction.
There are some frameworks that focus on smaller number of core pillars. Like the Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) highlights four key pillars: mental, physical, social, and financial. Others might list, nutrition, mindfulness, moment, and sleep. This National Wellness Month, despite these, the key takeaway is that well-being is not simply the absence of disease but a holistic way of surviving that requires attention to various interconnected aspects of life.
The 10 Powerful & Practical Ways to Celebrate National Wellness Month
This month is the perfect time and opportunity for you to focus on improving your well-being.
- Set an August Wellness Goal –
Choose a realistic target, for instance, better hydration, 7-hour of good sleep, or daily x-miles of walk and so on.
- Schedule Healthscreen assessment –
Preventive screening identifys risks early. Book a comprehensive check with us at Healthscreen UK.
- Move More –
The NHS has suggested at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, split it into short, manageable bursts.
- Practice Daily Mindfulness –
Start with 5 minutes of meditation or breathing exercises to minimise stress.
- Nourish Your Body –
It is this time you should opt for fresh, whole food and cut back on processed snacks.
- Stay Hydrated –
Aim to drink at least 2-3 litres of water in a day, more when the weather is hot.
- Reduce Screen Time –
Rather than scrolling the phone at night, start with introductory “digital sunsets” an hour before bed for better quality of sleep.
- Connect With Others –
Not via phone but by scheduling time with friends or family, a social support.
- Go outdoors –
Sunlight hitting your face will improve your mood, supports the circadian rhythm and boosts Vitamin D.
- Write a Wellness Journal –
Track your mood, habits, and progress. Make it your go to place too look back at situations that make you feel good or bad.
UK Wellness Snapshot: The State of Our Health
- 1 in 4 in the UK experience a common mental health problem at some point each year.
- Obesity affects 28% of UK adults, with another 36% overweight.
- According to Mental Health UK, nearly 1 in 5 people in the UK are not getting enough sleep.
The above statistics highlight the need for more than just addressing illness and disease. A proactive approach that prioritises prevention is needed to support individuals in maintaining healthy lifestyles.
Workplace Wellness: How Employers Can Get Involved
Given the growing prevalence of obesity, mental health, and sleep habits in the UK, it is more important than ever to set up a positive work atmosphere that promotes wellbeing. Here is how employers can proactively engage in workplace wellness, both during National Wellness Month and beyond it:
- Run wellness challenges. (hydration goals, daily steps)
- Offer health screenings in partnership with Healthscreen UK.
- Create mindful spaces or relaxation areas.
- Promote flexible schedules to support work-life balance.
- Provide education through webinar on nutrition, sleep, and stress.
This National Wellness Month, taking this holistic and proactive approach to workplace well-being, employers cannot only create a healthier and more supportive environment but also reap the rewards of a more engaged, productive, and satisfied workforce.
How Healthscreen UK Supports Your Wellness
Our services are designed to be proactive, not reactive. We provide:
- Full Body MOT Health Checks
- Workplace Wellness Programmes (customised for your organisation)
- Safety Critical Medicals (designed as per industry-specific requirements)
- Health Surveillance (such as audiometry, spirometry, musculoskeletal assessments)
By combining our advice and services, we help you stay ahead of potential health concerns at workplace.
Building Habits That Last Beyond August
You have hit on a critical point. National Wellness Month is one of the best times to start but well-being comes from habits that sticks. Let us be motivated for a month and slowly build a habit that stays with us long-term.
1. Start small and Specific –
The first thing one should do is pick one or two small habits you wish to cultivate. The goal should be easy enough that it almost feels silly not to do it. Success builds momentum. Avoid trying to change everything at once.
2. Leverage Habit Stacking –
Find a reliable daily habit that already exists, like brewing your morning coffee or brushing your teeth. Now, consciously add your new desired habit immediately before or after it. It will use the established routine of existing habit as trigger and reminder for new one.
3. The 4 Laws of Behaviour Change –
Make it obvious by putting running shoes by the door, keeping healthy snacks in reach, and so on. Make it attractive by using a pair of new habit with something enjoyable. For instance, an herbal tea when meditating or writing journal. Make it easy, reduce fiction. For instance, Perp healthy snacks on Sunday, keep water bottle full and nearby. Make it satisfying by rewarding yourself immediately after completing the habit, this will be like a mental pat on the back.
4. Track Your Progress –
This is easier and more efficient that your Social Media Streaks, what you can do is use a habit tracker and see your growth. This will provide a sense of accomplishment when you look back. Note that a small slip is okay but letting more days pass makes it harder to restart.
5. Plan for Setbacks –
Life happens and some days you will miss a day or even a week but don’t let it become full-blow relapse. Learn why it happened and adjust the way you work around it. The great rule you can follow is “Never Miss Twice”.
6. Find Your “Why” –
It is very essential to understand “why” you want to build this habit. Do it align with what you want for health, happiness, or personal growth. Reminding yourself of the positive impact of this habit will save your life.
7. Seek Support and Accountability
When you share your goals with family or friend about the habit then they can offer to be a gentle reminder when you get out of track. Even so you can find shared goals which increases commitment, so you can find someone who wants to build a healthy habit with you.
By bringing these you can transform into a lasting foundation for healthier, happier life throughout the year.
Mental Wellness: Managing Stress and Anxiety
Stress is one of the biggest threats to wellness in the UK. Tips for reducing stress:
- Practice deep breathing.
- Set clear work boundaries.
- Engage in hobbies you enjoy.
- Seek professional help when needed.
Physical Wellness: Moving Your Body
Even gentle movement has benefits:
- Improves heart health.
- Boosts energy.
- Supports healthy weight.
- Strengthens muscles and bones.
Emotional and Social Wellness
Emotional health means recognising and expressing feelings in healthy ways.
Social wellness means surrounding yourself with supportive, positive relationships.
Conclusion
National Wellness Month is not just a date on the calendar, it is an opportunity to reset, recharge, and commit to your health. This August and beyond take one step towards a healthier future. And remember Healthscreen UK is here to support you with screening, advice and resources tailored to your needs.
FAQs
1. What is National Wellness Month and why is it important?
National Wellness Month is observed every August to encourage people to focus on self-care, healthy habits, and stress management. It is important because it promotes a comprehensive approach to health; covering physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing and reminds us to make our wellness a priority before health problems arise.
2. How can I take part in National Wellness Month in the UK?
You can take part by committing to small daily wellness activities such as walking more, eating balanced meals, booking a health screening, or practising mindfulness. Many UK workplaces and communities also host wellness challenges, workshops, and events throughout August.
3. What are some easy wellness habits to start this month?
Begin with achievable changes, like drinking more water, sleeping at least 7 hours a night, stretching daily, and reducing screen time before bed. These small steps, practised consistently during National Wellness Month, can lead to long-term health benefits.
4. How does Healthscreen UK support National Wellness Month?
At Healthscreen UK, we offer comprehensive health screenings, workplace wellness programmes, and advice to help organisations to improve their wellbeing. By combining preventive healthcare with practical guidance, we make it easier to build habits that last beyond August.
5. Is National Wellness Month just for physical health?
No, wellness is about more than just physical health. This Month focuses on mental health, emotional resilience, social connection, and even occupational wellbeing. It is true that wellness involves caring for every aspect of your life.
6. Can workplaces benefit from taking part in National Wellness Month?
Yes, organisations that support wellness see improvements in employee productivity, engagement, and morale. Offering initiatives like on-site health checks, mental health resources, and wellness challenges during August can have lasting positive effects.
