July is THE month to be ‘aware’!
If we were ‘aware’ of all the ‘awareness days’ in July, we would not have time for anything else! They are numerous! Did you know there is a ‘Love all Budgies Day’ on 1st July? What about ‘International Bikini Day’ on the 5th and ‘Don’t Step on a Bee Day’ on the 10th! I particularly like ‘Lipstick Day’ on the 29th! Here is one we all need to be aware of – ‘International Kissing Day’ on the 6th. But I am being frivolous! There are many awareness days which would be good to take note of. July is National Picnic Month and July 5th is National Meadows Day. With July being the warmest summer month, apparently, now is the time to make the most of the great outdoors! According to research done by NHS Charities Together in 2023, Time outdoors can make you happier, healthier, and perform better at work. https://nhscharitiestogether.co.uk/news/research/time-outdoors-can-make-you-happier-healthier-and-perform-better-at-work-new-research-reveals/
Amongst the top health benefits people reported from getting outdoors were improved mood, immune benefits, sleeping more soundly and feeling less stressed. What could be more delightful than sharing a picnic with family or friends! If there is a meadow to sit in, so much the better. We can then appreciate our meadows, which are ‘rich ecosystems that are home to a variety of plants, insects, and animals, many of which are endangered’. But if a meadow is not possible, just sitting outside in a garden or on your doorstep can achieve some similar outcomes, including, more Vitamin D and a feeling of warmth if the sun is shining! There are not many of us who don’t like chocolate – maybe that is why there are 2 awareness days for chocolate in July, the 7th and 28th! Fortunately, not all chocolate is unhealthy. According to Professor Tim Spector from Zoe, dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa has plenty of essential nutrients, like iron, magnesium, copper and some vitamins and fibre. The gut bacteria love it and multiply. Dark chocolate also contains antioxidants which can help to prevent damage to our cells. However, even some dark chocolate can be high in sugar and fat, so reading the label is important! And how about International Joke Day on the 1st . This campaign encourages people of all ages to share jokes, funny stories, and humorous anecdotes, reminding us all of the importance of humour in our daily lives. Laughter has numerous benefits, including reducing stress, boosting mood, and even improving physical health. So, why not take a moment to laugh and make others laugh too? There are so many ways to help us feel good in July. However when things are not going so well we all need someone to talk to. The whole month is dedicated to the Samaritans, who are there for everyone in times of need. Talk to Us – Samaritans The Samaritans have been a lifeline for many, offering a listening ear and confidential support for anyone struggling to cope. Throughout July, the campaign highlights the importance of talking about mental health issues and encourages people to reach out for help whenever they need it. They have a helpline which is free to call 24 hours a day – 116 123, and an email jo@samaritans.org I could go on and tell you about Shark Awareness Day, Hot Dog Day and many more, but I will end on Thank You Day on 7th July. We are reminded of the importance of saying ‘thank you’ to the people who help us. So I hope you enjoy being ‘aware’ in July in so many different ways!
Support for people with dementia and their carers in Wedmore
Carer’s Group
Do you care for or support a person living with dementia? Then this friendly informative group is for you! Come along on the first Friday of the month to The Swan Hotel, Wedmore between 10am and 12md, next meeting on 4th July 2025. If you want to find out more about the Memories Workshops and Carers’ Group, phone HeadsUp on 01749 670667 or email wedmorecarers@yahoo.com If you need help with funding for attending HeadsUp, just ask, help may be available.
Coffee and a Chat
For general support with mental wellbeing Somewhere House, a charity based in Burnham, visits The Bluebird Café in Wedmore on the first Wednesday of the month, from 10-12md. They offer an opportunity to meet and chat. For more information contact them on 01278 780769
Cathy Butterworth
Wedmore Health & Wellbeing Project
01934 806266