“Nature is not just a place, it is an experience that nurtures physical, mental, and spiritual health,” shares Belgin Aksoy, Founder, Global Wellness Day. This June 8th marks the 13th annual Global Wellness Day, and its theme this year is nature. “Global Wellness Day is not just a celebration; it is a call to action, an invitation for individuals to actively participate in their own wellbeing and contribute to a harmonious relationship with the world around us,” she adds. “Together, let us embark on this transformative journey towards a healthier, more connected, and nature-centric existence with #MagentaNature.”
In honor of the lucky 13th Global Wellness Day, I reached out to Belgin for the latest on her ongoing passion for spreading wellness throughout the world.
How do you choose your Global Wellness Day themes, and can you share a bit of the process with our readers?
A young GWD participant in the Dominican Republic
Choosing a theme for Global Wellness Day (GWD) is a collaborative and thoughtful process. Each year, we start by reflecting on the current global pressing issues impacting people’s wellbeing. We gather input from our GWD Ambassadors and Key Supporters to identify a theme that resonates universally and addresses an aspect of wellness that requires attention. Our goal is to select a theme that is inclusive, actionable, and inspiring, encouraging individuals worldwide to take tangible steps towards improving their wellness.
What was the motivation behind this year’s Nature theme?
This year’s theme, #MagentaNature, was chosen because nature is suffering and Mother Earth urges a call to action. Nature has a profound impact on our mental, physical, and emotional health. During the pandemic, many people reconnected with nature as a source of solace and healing. Scientific studies consistently show that spending time in nature reduces stress, enhances mood, and boosts overall wellbeing. By focusing on nature, we aim to encourage people to appreciate and integrate the natural world into their daily lives, promoting a balanced and harmonious lifestyle, while increasing awareness around issues such as climate change and global warming.
By focusing on nature, we aim to encourage people to appreciate and integrate the natural world into their daily lives . . .
And where did the color magenta originate? What is its significance?
The color magenta was chosen for Global Wellness Day because it represents universal harmony and emotional balance. It is a color that combines the energy and passion of red with the calmness and serenity of blue. Magenta symbolizes compassion, kindness, and cooperation, which are at the heart of our mission. It stands out vibrantly, capturing attention and inspiring positive action, making it the perfect color to represent GWD.
What are your favorite things to do in nature?
Belgin Aksoy
Personally, I find immense joy in simple activities like mindful woodland walks, sitting by the sea, stargazing, ice climbing, hiking in the mountains, and lately camping.These moments allow me to disconnect from the daily hustle and reconnect with myself. I also enjoy meditating in natural settings, which enhances my sense of peace and mindfulness. Being in nature is a powerful way for me to recharge, gain perspective, and feel like part of something bigger. It’s a reminder that we’re all in this crazy, wild journey called “life” together. We’re all just trying to figure things out as we go, so we might as well take it easy and always be kind to each other.
Where are your favorite places to be in nature?
There are so many beautiful places around the world, but some of my favorites this year have been the breathtaking forests and waterfalls of Colombia, the stunning sunrise from Poon Hill Nepal, and traveling across Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe sleeping on a rooftop tent amongst the savanna wildlife. Each of these places offers a unique way to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature. However, my balcony filled with plants and flowers even holds a special place in my heart, as it provides an accessible retreat from the urban environment.
How can one enjoy or be inspired by nature if one does not have easy access to it?
Even if you don’t have easy access to natural spaces, you can still connect with nature in meaningful ways. Indoor plants can bring a touch of greenery and life into your home. Spending time in local parks or community gardens can also provide a natural escape. Additionally, virtual experiences, such as nature documentaries or soundscapes, can evoke the calming effects of nature. Simply opening your window to let in fresh air and natural light can make a difference.
Can you share a few examples of properties that are offering GWD #MagentaNature doings?
Many spas, hotels, wellness centers, international brands, and even municipalities and governments around the world have embraced this year’s #MagentaNature theme in creative ways. Activities range from volunteer firefighters educating communities about nature to prenatal yoga, art, and music therapy for expectant mothers, and from full moon yoga accompanied by medicine sound therapy to the Blackfeet Tribe sharing their indigenous and traditional ecological knowledge. These few examples truly highlight how integrating nature can enhance the wellness experience, and I’m extremely happy that there will be many tree plantings and environmental cleaning activities across the globe.
Do you have a favorite Nature quote?
One of my favorite quotes about nature is by Vincent Van Gogh, “If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere.” This quote beautifully captures the essence of how nature provides us with unexpected and profound benefits, simply by spending time within it.
How do you feel about the growth of Global Wellness Day, and what does that mean to you?
The growth of Global Wellness Day has been incredibly heartening. From its humble beginnings in Türkiye, it has now reached millions of people across the globe. This expansion signifies a global recognition of the importance of wellness. It means that while working day and night, all those tears, sweat, and sleepless nights were valued, and our message is resonating—people are increasingly prioritizing their health and wellbeing. This growth is a testament to the collective efforts of our dedicated volunteers and ambassadors, and it fills me with hope and gratitude.
Future hopes for Global Wellness Day?
My ultimate aim for Global Wellness Day is to foster better lifestyles for individuals and societies alike. Importantly, while the day spans just 24 hours, its message is timeless. The day Global Wellness Day gains recognition on the United Nations Official Calendar will mark a personal triumph for me. It will signify a milestone where our collective commitment to wellbeing becomes a legacy celebrated by generations to come.
Mary Bemis
Mary Bemis is Founder & Editorial Director of InsidersGuidetoSpas.com. She is a pioneering spa journalist, most recently honored by Medika Life as one of the "Top 30 Influential Voices Transforming Wellness." She is an inaugural recipient of Folio's Top Women in Media Award, and was honored by ISPA with its distinguished ISPA Dedicated Contributor Award. In 1997, she launched American Spa magazine, and in 2007, Mary co-founded Organic Spa magazine. A pioneer in the sustainable spa and beauty worlds, Mary is co-curator of Cosmoprof North America's Discover Green Pavilion. She is a Global Wellness Day Advisor, and a co-founder of the Washington Spa Alliance.
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