Every year a theme for Black History Month is chosen by the Association for the Study of African-American Life and History (ASALH). Originally called the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History, the organization was founded in 1915 by Dr. Carter G. Woodson who is also known as “The Father of Black History”. Woodson was the son of a former slave and knew firsthand how important it was to have a proper education.
Dr. Woodson was the first to initiate the celebration of Negro History Week. The week was chosen to correspond with the birthdays of two great men, Frederick Douglas and Abraham Lincoln. Negro History week expanded to the entire month of February and became Black History Month in 1976. Fast forward to 2022, Black History Month is now a time where the black experience is discussed and supported throughout the country, regardless of race, ethnicity, and social background.
To promote good health and wellness, Black people have started on a journey on self-determination, mutual aid, and social support. This has helped to provide safe spaces for Black people to deal with the economic and health inequalities and prejudice that are found within mainstream institutions. Health and wellness not only includes ones physical self, but also ones mental and emotional health. Take a step back to look at your inventory. You may need to make appointments to check on your health or carve out some time for self-care.
Gymwrap is a firm believer in wellness and was created out of a need to promote health among the black women community. In 2011, Nicole Ari Parker noticed a common excuse emerge among busy, everyday women and why they couldn’t work out, their hair. Hair is a serious issue for most women. After spending their time and money at the salon, they did not want to ruin it with sweat. During that summer, the Surgeon General issued a statement. “Women have got to stop using their hair as an excuse to exercise.” Our health issues had reached a state of emergency. The nationwide call to action inspired her to perfect Gymwrap workout headwraps.
In these uncertain times, we must take care of ourselves and each other by making sure we put our health first. Gymwrap is committed to supporting you on your journey to a healthier and happier you, every single day.