World Wellness Day 2024 took place this weekend, highlighting the vital connection between humanity, health and nature.
Founded by Bergin Aksoy in 2012, GWD is an annual event that aims to inspire as many people as possible to prioritize their health and wellbeing.
Now in its 13th year, GWD was celebrated on 8 June by more than one billion people in over 170 countries.
Global Wellness Day (GWD) celebrated its 13th anniversary on Saturday 8 June, marking its most successful year yet with a record 1 billion people taking part around the world.
Founded in 2012 by Belgin Aksoy, GWD is an annual event that highlights the importance of health and wellness. Held on the second Saturday of June every year, GWD brings together free wellness activities around the world with the philosophy “One day can change a life.”
Since its inception, GWD has expanded from a single-country event to an event held in tens of thousands of locations across more than 170 countries.
Internationally renowned hospitality and spa operators, including Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Oberoi, Jumeirah and Accor, joined in this year’s celebrations, hosting a range of engagements for both guests and staff. Activities ranged from sound baths, sunset yoga and honey tastings to flash mob dancing and group fitness classes.
All events organized for GWD must meet three main attributes: be educational, be non-profit and be free.
Back to nature
This year’s theme, #MagentaNature, focuses on promoting overall wellness by reconnecting with nature and encouraging individuals to embrace the transformative power of being in harmony with their environment.
More than 150 GWD ambassadors, key supporters and volunteers led the initiative, encouraging people of all ages to adopt a lifestyle in harmony with nature.
Aksoy comments: “Connecting with nature is not just an activity – it’s a mindset. People who choose to live a rich life find that connecting with nature is also a way of life.”
“GWD is more than just a celebration. It is a call to action, an invitation for individuals to take active roles in their own health and contribute to a harmonious relationship with the world around them.”
“Every GWD, I am filled with joy and gratitude as my heart connects with millions of people around the world. I embrace their good wishes, dreams and promises to themselves. I am living a dream I never want to wake up from.”
