Activate Your Lung Power…

To breathe is to live, but how can we breathe better to live better in our pursuit of Active Wellness? There are many different ways to physically enhance our lung capacity.

Good breathing techniques may not only help our bodies get the oxygen needed but also keep our lungs healthy and strong. One particular exercise that helps the lungs intake oxygen is called diaphragmatic breathing.¹ In layman’s terms, this type of exercise is called “belly breathing.” Follow these steps:

1. Relax your shoulders and sit back or lie down.
2. Place one hand on your belly and one on your chest.
3. Inhale through your nose for two seconds, feeling the air move into your abdomen and feeling your stomach move out. Your stomach should move more than your chest does.
4. Breathe out for two seconds through pursed lips while pressing on your abdomen.
5. Repeat.

Another exercise helps keep our airways open longer, which helps reduce the “work” of breathing. It’s called pursed-lips breathing and helps improve the lung’s function of inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide.² Pursed-lips breathing is simpler than diaphragmatic breathing and can be practiced at any time. Follow these steps:

1. Inhale slowly through your nose.
2. Purse your lips, as if pouting or about to blow on something.
3. Breathe out as slowly as possible through pursed lips. This should take at least twice as long as it did to breathe in.
4. Repeat.

To help increase lung capacity, the British Lung Foundation advises deep breathing in general. It’s believed that deep breathing can help clear mucous from the lungs, which allows more air to circulate.³ Simply inhale deeply through the nose, 5-10 times, then cough a couple of times and repeat.

In addition to breathing exercises, do the following for healthy lung maintenance:

1. Stop smoking, and avoid secondhand smoke or environmental irritants.
2. Eat foods rich in antioxidants. 
3. Exercise more frequently, which can help your lungs function properly. Swimming is especially helpful for increasing lung power.

1, 2. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-increase-lung-capacity

3. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323787#when-do-they-work

23rd September 2021

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Subscribe

Lungs are Vital in Our Amazing Human Bodies…

Breath gives life, so breathing is one of the most important things our respiratory systems accomplish. The most vital components of breathing are our lungs. 

Here are some facts about our lungs¹ that are notable:

1. In humans, the right lung is larger than the left to accommodate the heart.
2. Exhalation is just as important as inhalation. The air we breathe contains 21% oxygen, of which only 5% is used—the rest is exhaled.
3. We think of our digestive systems as being in charge of waste disposal; however, 70% of waste is eliminated through our lungs in the form of up to 17.5 milliliters of water exhaled each hour! 
4. Children and women breathe at a higher rate than men.
5. Lungs are the only organs in the human body that are capable of floating on water.
6. A person inhales an average of 13 pints of air every minute!
7. Imagine this: If we were to open up the lungs and lay them flat, they would be so large that they would cover an entire tennis court!

So many physical activities we do naturally are the work of our respiratory systems. For example, coughing, sneezing and yawning are ways to rid our lungs of unwanted substances that we unknowingly inhale. Yawning also helps us intake more oxygen, especially when the brain senses a shortage of needed air! ²

Similar to our digestive tracts, our lower respiratory tract is colonized by diverse groups of bacteria. On the other hand, unlike the bacteria in our digestive tracts, studies have shown that the flora or microbes in the respiratory tract do not cause disease.³

As we inhale and exhale, there’s a small amount of air, called residual volume, that always stays inside our lungs.⁴ Our amazing lungs keep at least 1,200 ml of air in the lungs at all times! Even after we do a good exhale, there’s always more that can be pushed out.

Residual volume actually helps keep smaller airways and air sacs (known as alveoli) open a little at all times, so that the next breath and the next and so on, comes easier. The tiny but powerful alveoli cover a surface that measures more than 1,076.4 sq. ft. or 100 sq.m. This large surface area is necessary to process the huge amounts of air involved in breathing and getting oxygen to our lungs.⁵ Alveoli are responsible for three overall processes⁶ involved in breathing: 

1. Ventilation: moving air in and out of the lungs
2. Diffusion: oxygen-carbon dioxide exchange
3. Perfusion: pumping blood through the lungs

When we take deep breaths in and exhale slowly, we are helping our lungs do their best work! It’s all part of Active Wellness and getting to know the intricacies of our remarkable bodies.

1. https://pulmonaryhypertensionnews.com/2017/12/20/8-fun-facts-lungs/

2, 3, 4. https://careplusvn.com/en/10-surprising-facts-about-the-respiratory-system

5, 6. https://www.healthline.com/health/alveoli-function#alveoli-function

17^th September 2021

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Subscribe

Organic Your September for Active Wellness…

“The health of soil, plant, animal and man is one and indivisible” – Albert Howard

September is here and every year we celebrate all things Organic. What does Organic really mean and what are the benefits you might wonder…

Organic foods come from crops that were produced without using synthetic pesticides, fertilizers or other genetically modified components. They also include animal products such as cheese, milk, meat or honey that were also produced free of growth hormones and antibiotics. In the face of climate change and other ecological issues such as a widespread decline in wildlife, the need to change our food systems is now more important than ever – a transition towards ‘agroecological’ farming systems, such as organic, can make a world of difference not just for Mother Earth but for all of us.

Why Organic?

It’s Better for the Planet… Respecting nature and enhancing the health of soils, water and air, organic farming is leading the way on sustainability. According to the Soil Association UK, if Europe’s farmers all followed organic principles, agricultural emissions could drop by 40-50% by 2050. ¹ Organic farmers are encouraged to make use of what they have and limit the use of imported resources. This means no artificial fertilisers, healthier soils that store more carbon and meat that is more environmentally friendly. 

Nikken’s JadeGreen Zymes^® barley grass powder is certified Organic by the Soil Association, a certification we are extremely proud off. The Soil Association wants to ensure the highest possible standards of animal welfare, environmental and wildlife protection.

Higher Welfare for Animals… Organic farming has the highest animal welfare standards of any international farming system. Free range animals are encouraged to forage, graze and roam, with plenty of space, fresh air and conditions that allow them to express their natural behaviours. More access to the outdoors means organic animals don’t have to be routinely treated with antibiotics and wormers.

It’s Better for People… Is organic food safer than conventional products? This is a question that most of us are asking ourselves. Well, organic farming makes the connection between our own health and the health of our planet, our animals and our wildlife. As Ludwig Feuerbach once said: “We are what we eat” – so why not consume produce that contains fewer pesticides, additives, preservatives and with no GM ingredients whilst supporting our farmers and the planet at the same time?

A few ways to becoming more Organic friendly…

Grow your own… Growing your own saves on food miles, tastes delicious and couldn’t be any fresher. Even a few salad leaves and herbs are better than nothing and can be grown in pots if you have no garden space. At the same time, you will be encouraging wildlife by putting up nest boxes, leaving piles of leaves in corners for hibernating creatures and leaving areas of long grass where insects and other creatures can hide.

Reduce, reuse and recycle… Choose loose fruit and vegetables from your local farm shop and try upcycling the packaging from your favourite organic brands too. Buying organic food from independent local businesses is an important way to support them and boosting your local economy at the same time.

Eat with the seasons… Eating more seasonally is a great way to reconnect to the rhythm of the natural world, as well as reducing the food miles of what’s on your table everyday. Find out what fruit and vegetables are in season and follow the path to becoming more sustainable.

Organic offers a simple, trusted way to be more sustainable in our daily lives and this is an important part of an Active Wellness lifestyle: Being in Harmony with Nature.

1. https://www.soilassociation.org/causes-campaigns/a-ten-year-transition-to-agroecology/iddri-report-ten-years-for-agroecology-in-europe/

2^nd September 2021

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Subscribe

Get into the zone with Reflexology

Reflexology’s increasing popularity at present seems to derive from its reputation for dealing with stress and tension and in promoting relaxation.  

Reflexology, otherwise known as ‘zone therapy’, is a type of therapy that uses gentle pressure on specific points along your feet (and sometimes the hands or ears) to help ease stress and assist your body in working better.¹  Because of the close interaction of mind and body, relaxing one will help unwind the other too.  

Many people confuse massage with reflexology, but it’s actually more comparable to acupressure. Reflexology connects spots on the outside of your body to the inside – different areas of the feet are linked to specific body parts, and putting pressure on one area of the foot can have an effect on the organ it corresponds with:

• Tops of each toe = head/brain
• Balls of your feet = heart, chest, and lungs
• Arch of your foot = liver, pancreas, and kidney
• Heels = lower back and gut system

Here’s how it works: A foot is divided into five zones that run from toe to heel: The big toe is zone 1, and the little toe is zone 5. The body is divided into 10 zones that run from head to foot. Zone 1 aligns with the left and right center of the body, and zone 5 aligns with the left and right sides of the body. When you place pressure on zone 1 in the foot, it can help relieve discomforts in the part of the body that’s linked to that area. Pretty cool, right? 

The average benefits of reflexology include stress relief, relaxation and increased energy. 

So, how exactly does reflexology provide all these benefits? One theory that dates back to the 19th century suggests that reflexology works by stimulating the nervous system. Pressing on areas of the feet in a calming way stimulates the nerves there, which sends a message to the central nervous system. This helps to relax the body and has positive effects on your breathing, blood flow, immune response and more.

If you can’t find a reflexologist near you, try a DIY session! Here’s what you need to know about how to use a foot reflexology chart².

• Any foot reflexology chart will have the major reflex areas marked (usually with bold colors).
• You’ll find the names of the different organs/body parts that correspond to each reflex area labeled. It should be easy to locate which is which. 
• To recreate a mini reflexology session at home, use a small amount of lotion to massage your feet. Apply pressure with the ball of your thumb, holding for 5 to 10 seconds.  
• If you don’t know where to start, try your heel and move on from there, applying steady, even pressure with your thumb.
• Before your first DIY foot reflexology session, familiarize yourself with the basic areas on a foot reflexology chart. 

KenkoInsoles are Nikken’s founding product, derived from research into the effects of magnetic fields, with an added reflexological component inspired by the reflexology practices in Japan and the pebbles on the floor of the traditional baths.  

The current Nikken insoles continue to be popular products in the range: Kenko mSteps, with raised nodules for a gentle massaging sensation as you walk, and Kenko mStrides, a high density insole with magnetic technology.

Disclaimer: Any new pain symptom or medical condition should be discussed with your doctor before receiving reflexology treatments.

1 https://www.webmd.com/balance/what-is-reflexology

2 https://greatist.com/live/foot-reflexology-chart#when-to-avoid

---

19th August 2021

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Subscribe

The Circulatory System: An amazing circuit that keeps our bodies going…

Proper circulation is key for maintaining optimal health. It ensures that blood and oxygen continuously flow throughout the body, allowing every organ to function properly. It helps to heal wounds faster, it keeps the brain sharp, it keeps the heart healthy and it even gives the complexion a natural glow.¹  Therefore, it’s vital to look after our circulatory system as part of our active wellness.

Top tips for circulatory health include exercising for 30 minutes a day, most days of the week as well as maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle. Here are 7 further tips that are easy to incorporate in your daily routine!

1. Get More Omegas… Omega-3 fatty acids help improve blood flow in the body and are an excellent source for heart health. Omegas can be found in certain types of fish such as mackerel.  For those who are vegetarian or vegan, kale also contains a small amount of omega-3 fatty acid. There are many natural supplements that contain Omega-3.

2. Sip Smarter… Drink black or green tea. A 2001 study, published in the journal Circulation, found that black tea improves blood vessel health. The antioxidants in these teas help to increase the width of the blood vessels. This enables the body to pump blood more easily. 

3. Quit Smoking… So, this one isn’t easy. But, it’s absolutely necessary! Nicotine causes the blood vessels to constrict or narrow, which limits the amount of blood that flows to the organs. Over time, the constant constriction results in blood vessels that become stiff and less elastic. Constricted blood vessels decrease the amount of oxygen and nutrients the body cells receive.

4. Get Iron-Strong… If you don’t have enough red blood cells to circulate oxygen throughout your body, then you’re considered anemic. Women are especially susceptible to becoming anemic, especially if they are pregnant. Consuming an iron-rich diet such as spinach, legumes and red meat (in moderation) can greatly help you increase your red blood cells. 

5. Compression for Comfort… Compression socks are a staple of any runner, but they should be in every household regardless of athletic ability.  That’s because these special socks reduce swelling in the legs. If you keep your legs elevated when you wear them, it will put pressure on the feet to help blood vessels push blood through the upper body and up to the heart. 

6. Brush Your Body… If you’ve never heard of dry brushing before, you are seriously missing out on a relaxing and stimulating way to increase your blood flow! Before taking a shower or bath, use a soft-bristle brush and gently brush your skin in long, upward strokes. Start at your feet, and then move to your legs, thighs, stomach and arms. It not only feels amazing, it will help increase your circulation instantly.

7. Ease into Exercise… Sitting too much and for too long can be detrimental to your body. Your circulation system is no exception. Any type of movement is good, including a gentle walk, but experts say a good high-impact activity is jogging/running, and a good low-impact activity is yoga. Movements that involve bending, stretching and twisting help to compress and decompress a person’s veins, which may help improve circulation.²

Whether in doors, taking a gentle stroll outside or for more active exercise, Nikken’s Kenko mSteps and Kenko mStrides insoles can help energize your feet!  

1. https://www.henryford.com/blog/2020/10/how-to-boost-circulation
2. https://niveinclinic.com/why-good-blood-circulation-is-vital-to-your-health/

Over Four Decades of Active Wellness – The History of Nikken magnets…

While many of us may not be familiar with the uses of magnetics, they have been used successfully for centuries in other parts of the world. Naturally produced magnets are called Lodestones and were used in ancient China, Japan, India, Egypt and Greece to help people enjoy better health. 

Nikken have been researching and developing magnetic technologies since 1975 with the launch of the first Magnetic Insoles – KenkoInsoles. Nikken’s founder, Mr. Isamu Masuda began his wellness revolution with a brilliant thought: “If people feel better after walking on pebbles, why not create a way to experience this effect all day long?”

Drawing inspiration from the combined research into the positive effects of magnetic fields and massage inspired by the reflexology practices and the pebbles on the floors of the traditional Japanese hot baths – he combined a textured surface with magnetic technology and this is how the Magsteps^® (later called KenkoInsoles) were created.

Since then, Nikken’s research teams have continued the process of research and found that the more complex the magnetic fields, the more effective they are on the body. As a consequence, a number of further developments designed and adapted for different applications are now available.

Kenko mSteps – a gentle massage in your shoe!

Raised nodules on the surface of mSteps are designed to provide a very gentle massaging sensation on the soles of the feet. Walking, standing or sitting, these nodules will stimulate and invigorate your feet.

Patented DynaFlux^® Magnetic Technology acts like a magnetic field generator inside the shoes. This happens when magnets are placed in a way called ‘polar opposites’ – as you walk, the components of the magnets move, changing position to produce a dynamic field of energy. 

mSteps are available in two sizes: 2.5 – 7 (#3053) and 6.5 – 11.5 (3054). The insoles can be trimmed if needed to fit perfectly in your shoes.

The Kenko mStrides – great for active activity!

Kenko mStrides have the same patented DynaFlux^® Magnetic Technology as the Kenko mSteps but without the massaging nodules.

They are thicker to provide more cushion and flexibility, ideal for use in soft athletic shoes such as trainers and hiking boots, etc. 

Kenko mStrides are also available in two sizes: 2 – 7 (#3050) and 6.5 – 11.5 (#3051), these insoles can also be trimmed if needed to fit perfectly in your shoes.

Whichever insoles you choose this summer, you can comfortably walk your way to Active Wellness!

Shop now at: www.nikken.com/eu/

5^th August 2021

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Subscribe

5 Tips for Balancing Your Immune System…

Immune health has been on the forefront of everyone’s mind, especially in the past year. People have tried to come up with a variety of ways to “boost” their immune system. But, is that really possible? It’s actually a common misconception that the more active our immune system is, the healthier we will be. The fact is, when it comes to our immune system, more is not necessarily better. While we don’t want an underactive immune system, an overactive immune system can cause problems, too. So, what we really want to achieve is a balanced immune system¹. Here are five tips on how to get it!

1. Keep those vitamin D levels up! Many people have low vitamin D levels, and studies show our levels drop in the fall and winter months (in the Northern hemisphere) when we begin to spend less time in the sun. This is bad news for our immune system. If our vitamin D blood levels fall rapidly – as often happens when the weather gets colder and our time in the sun decreases – our innate immunity suffers. So, to maintain optimal blood levels of vitamin D we need to get daily, moderate sun exposure and/or take a vitamin D supplement.

2. Sleep like a baby. For years, science has linked a good night’s sleep (6-8 consecutive hours) to a healthier immune system. That’s because during this regular time of rest, our immune system promotes a healthy inflammatory response. Stress hormones fall to the lowest levels at night, allowing our bodies to undo the physical stress exerted during the day. One of the best ways to improve the quality of sleep is to improve “sleep hygiene.” Create the right ambience in your bedroom by making it cool, dark, and quiet. You can even light some candles, take a bath, meditate, or just sit quietly. Sweet dreams!

3. Say sayonara to stress. Easier said than done, but it’s so important because stress takes a significant toll on our immune systems. Physical, mental and emotional stress, especially when it’s ongoing, can impair our immune system’s ability do its job. Mindfulness-based activities like meditation, deep breathing and yoga are excellent tools for managing stress. Don’t forget exercise! It not only keeps us healthy, but it strengthens our immune system. Just 30 minutes a day of moderate activity is all it takes.

4. Feast on fermented foods. You may be thinking, “Fermented foods? What are they?” Fermented foods consist of sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, kefir and kombucha. Eating them is great for our immune system because 80 percent of the immune system is found in our gastrointestinal tract. If these foods aren’t appealing to you, you can get the same benefits by taking probiotic supplements. Ingesting probiotics (friendly bacteria and yeasts) is an effective way to improve digestion and support immune health.

5. Stay connected. Make time to take care of your mental and emotional health. One way to do this is by staying in contact with people you care about. If you can’t safely be together in person, reach out to them through a phone call, video chat, email, letter, text message or other ways.

Incorporating the Active wellness tips described above to your lifestyle now will help you feel  better and more balanced long-term.

1. https://www.objectivewellness.com/journal/posts/how-to-boost-your-immune-system-its- all-about-balance

22^nd July 2021

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Subscribe

Do More by Doing Less…

By Guest Editor: Jeff Isom, Chancellor of Nikken University

Most of us are continually striving to be active, healthy, and well. The idea of Active Wellness is perhaps more of a process than a result and encompasses a variety of aspects in our lives. One of those areas is the personal growth we work towards as we decide what to create and accomplish on a day-to-day basis.

A question someone might ask themselves is, how do I do more with the time I have? It may be that we can accomplish more by deciding to focus on less. Think about the idea of limiting your daily to-do list to the top 3 most important things you want to accomplish for that day. You could do this same process at the beginning of every week for the week ahead. It is a simple strategy, but one that might prove to be extremely powerful.

This habit turbocharges your productivity because it forces you to prioritize the most significant things you want to achieve, and then causes you to have laser-like focus in getting them done. Having just three items to focus on throughout the day and week can help you stay centered and to accomplish more, even on days when you feel overloaded.

In order to make this approach work, it is important that you write out these 3 main focus areas before busying yourself with “urgent” but not important tasks like checking email, texts, or social media. It is necessary to prioritize what you want to achieve during the course of the day. You can also reference your schedule for the day and your week to see how much time you’ll have to devote to your top tasks.  Then, you can shift around meetings and commitments to concentrate on what really matters.

As you think about putting this Rule of 3 into practice, create your list on a daily basis first in order to realize how effective it can be. You can then add the weekly exercise from there. Make sure that your top 3 items are challenging but also realistic and achievable. This will help you stay motivated and ride the momentum for getting things done.

After you list out the top 3 items to accomplish, it is okay to write down additional minor tasks to take care of during the day (such as remembering to buy stamps, writing a thank you card, or going to the dry cleaner). What’s important is that you prioritize and place your energy on your top 3 tasks, and work on smaller items as time allows. At the end of the day, you can measure your productivity by looking at how successful you were at accomplishing your main 3 tasks.

To accomplish more and to spend time on your highest-impact tasks, you have to act on them on a daily basis. The Rule of 3 is a great way to do exactly that. This habit will help you do more by doing less. It will increase your growth as a person and move you closer towards Active Wellness in a variety of areas in your life.

About the guest editor: Jeff is Chancellor of Nikken University and regularly runs Nikkens Humans Being More Workshops around the globe!

15^th July 2021

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Subscribe

How to Use Colour Psychology to Increase Your Overall Wellness…

Have you ever wondered why some people and children have a favourite colour? Why when a child’s favourite colour is orange, do they prefer to eat orange fruit, wear orange clothes and always choose the orange popsicle when offered a variety of other flavours? Orange makes them happy and puts them in a good mood. Is this a coincidence or is there more at play here? 

Psychologists and scientists have long believed that colours can impact your mood, sleep, energy and eating habits. It’s called colour psychology or colour therapy. And you can use it to create a wellness plan for yourself. ¹

Colour therapy uses the benefits of different colours and shades to affect your wellbeing. As each colour has a unique light wavelength, the colour therapy principles use the energy of each shade to boost your mental and physical health.

• Red and pink colours are linked to your blood, circulation and breathing. Use these colours to help raise your pulse, blood pressure and the speed that you breathe, and strengthen your veins. Wearing red or pink for a high energy workout could improve your results. Red is also linked to feeling of passion, so keep a red outfit at the ready for date nights!

• Orange, as one of the warmest tones, notably resembles the colour of the sunset – one of nature’s most calming and peaceful gifts. Watching a spectacular sunset can rebalance your joy, optimism and wisdom. Orange is also said to inspire creativity and enthusiasm.

• Yellow is the most intense colour in the spectrum. This colour can make you feel happier. It can bring out your intelligence and wisdom. It’s also said to bring energy and encourage action. Yellow flowers can brighten your day and uplift you!

• Green colours have a harmonious, calming effect. This is why many people choose to have plants in their homes and on their desks at work. And, when you’re indoors for a prolonged period of time, you know the exhilarating feeling of getting out into nature with the greenery.

• Blue also encourages relaxation and calm, which is why it’s such a popular colour on the walls of a bedroom. Many people prefer to choose blue mats to practice yoga or daily meditation. Stronger shades of blue support the brain’s thought processes, while lighter shades help improve concentration. ²

• Purple or indigo colours are beneficial for problems with the eyes, ears and nose, while more violet shades of purple with a pink tone can help relax your muscles and nervous system. Violet colours are also useful when meditating.

• Black is often regarded as colour of authority and power. ³ If you’re looking to take charge this is the colour you should be gravitating to.

There’s a whole world of colour out there! Embrace what it means and how it can improve your overall Active Wellness.

1. https://www.calmmoment.com/wellbeing/colour-therapy-boost-wellbeing/
2. https://www.barker-whittle.com.au/blog/3-colours-improve-concentration- productivity      
3. https://psychologia.co/meaning-of-colors/

8^th July 2021

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Subscribe

The Amazing History of Honouring Men on Father’s Day!

Father’s Day is celebrated every year around the world. The date is different from country to country. Nevertheless, it’s still an important day to celebrate.

Moms are simply the best, but dads deserve a day to be recognized for all they do too! Did you ever wonder how Father’s Day began? It’s quite a story! It started with a young girl who had five siblings who were all being raised by their single father. Her name was Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington and this is her story.¹

In May of 1909, Sonora Smart Dodd sat in church listening to a Mother’s Day sermon. She decided she wanted to designate a day for her dad, William Jackson Smart. Dodd’s mother had died in childbirth, and Dodd’s father, a Civil War veteran, had taken the responsibility of singlehandedly raising the newborn and his other five children.

The following year, Dodd wanted to celebrate Father’s Day on June 5th, her father’s birthday and petitioned for the holiday to be recognized in her city. Needing more time to arrange the festivities, Spokane’s mayor pushed the date back by two weeks, and the first Father’s Day was celebrated on June 19, 1910, according to the Spokane Regional Convention and Visitor Bureau. 

In 1916, President Wilson attended the Father’s Day celebration in Spokane and confirmed that he was working to make the holiday recognized at a national level. Congress initially resisted because they were worried about commercialization. It took 56 years before President Richard Nixon signed Father’s Day into law in 1972.²

At the first Father’s Day celebration, young women handed out red roses to their fathers during a church service, and large baskets full of roses were passed around, with attendees encouraged to pin on a rose in honor of their fathers – red for the living and white in memory of the deceased. 

One hundred and eleven years later, we still celebrate Father’s Day every May and June in some countries such as the United Kingdom, France and Germany. In other countries like Sweden, this is celebrated in November. It’s an anticipated day not just for fathers, but for stepfathers, uncles, grandpas and the other men who take on the role of fatherhood for children everywhere.

1. https://www.livescience.com/10697-father-day-turns-100.html
2. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/fathers-day/g21205120/fathers-day-throughout-the-years/

28^th June 2021

Subscribe to Blog via Email

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

Subscribe