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Wellness
Treat yourself (locally) for self-care month
Greenville proves self-care can be easy with a multitude of self-care activities, eats + more (like this yoga class at Sun and Soil). | Photo by @sunandsoilplantparlor
If you’ve been in need of some much-needed “me time,” you’re in luck. September is National Self-Care Awareness Month (read: a time to take care of your physical + mental health).
With a busy summer slowing down, now is the perfect time to practice wellness ahead of the new season. Take this as a sign to treat yourself.
Here are six local ways to celebrate self-care this September:
Breathe it in, stretch it out
Yoga is an exercise with proven physical and mental health benefits for any skill level. Whether you’re a self-proclaimed yogi or brand new to the practice, GVL has plenty of studios with yoga classes for all fitness levels.
Try a new hobby
Spark joy this self-care month by finding a new hobby. Our recommendation: Try your hand at gardening or taking care of indoor plants. (Pro tip: Indoor plants can reduce stress + support sharper focus.)
Good food = good mood. These local vegan + vegetarian restaurants offer nutritious and delicious versions of desserts, comfort foods, and more to leave your body and mind feeling satisfied.
Spread the love
Self-care comes in many forms. If you feel at your best when giving back to the community and connecting with others, volunteer with one of these awesome organizations or at a local hospital in the Upstate.
Plan a self-care staycation
We saved the best for last. Go the extra mile by planning a self-care staycation at a local treehouse, downtown historic loft, or even a lakefront luxury shipping container.
Community Blood Drive | Thursday, Sept. 14 | 8 a.m.-1 p.m. | Greer Commission of Public Works, 301 McCall St., Greer | Free | The Blood Connection will be collecting donations at this community blood drive.
Social House Market | Saturday, Sept.16 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Social House, 25 Delano Dr. | Free | Shop local food, art, handmade goods, and more at this family-friendly outdoor market.
Health
“Getting Ready for Baby” Class | Thursday, Sept. 21 | 6-8 p.m. | Patewood Memorial Hospital, 175 Patewood Dr. | $25 | An educational class to learn about hospital care, newborn care at home, feeding your baby + more.
Outdoors
Guided Kayak Tour | Sunday, Sept. 24 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Devils Fork State Park, 161 Holcombe Cir., Salem | $125-$250 | A kayak tour led by a naturalist guide with chances to explore waterfalls, coves, beaches, and secluded swimming spots around Lake Jocassee.
Wellness
Full Moon Circle Sound Bath Meditation | Friday, Sept. 29 | 6 p.m. | Raven & Moon, 413 SE Main St., Simpsonville | Free | This one-hour guided meditation uses sound healing instruments to relax, rejuvenate, and restore the body.
Active
2023Walk to End Alzheimer’s | Saturday, Sept. 30 | 8 a.m.-12 p.m. | Fluor Field at the West End, 945 South Main St. | $0+ | Register as an individual or with a group for the Alzheimer’s Association annual walk + fundraiser to help raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research.
Dual Slalom Bike Race | Saturday, Sept. 30 | 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | Pleasant Ridge Park, 4232 Hwy. 11, Marietta | $20 | Greenville County Rec’s third annual competitive mountain biking race in Dual Slalom format featuring multiple race categories.
True to the Brew Trail Run/Hike Half Marathon | Saturday, Oct. 7 | 7:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | Cedar Springs Baptist Church, 140 Cedar Springs Pl., Spartanburg | $60 | Sign up for this 13.1-mile trail run + hike on the Palmetto Trail at Croft State Park, plus free entry to a concert at RJ Rockers Brewery after the race.
A new pickleball complex called PKL Park may be coming to Greenville in the summer of 2024. The complex would have 10,000-sqft of outdoor green space, eight courts, food and drink options, and more.
Featured
Greenville landed on HGTV’s list of the “20 best small towns to retire.” The climate, cost of living, and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and biking are a few reasons GVL was chosen as a top spot for folks to enjoy their golden years.
Award
Do you know someone who goes above and beyond to make South Carolina a healthier place to live, work, and play? Nominate them for SC Biz News’ Health Care Heroes Awards through Wednesday, Sept. 20. There are 11 categories to choose from, including first responders, health care professionals, volunteers, and more.
Outdoors
In case you missed it, the local buzz is that Greenville City Council recently accepted a $25,000 donation from a local family for a new pollinator garden in Cleveland Park. Greenville Parks & Rec will dedicate the garden to the family this fall.
Seasonal
Fall means crisp air, colorful leaves, and…flu season. Millions of people get flu symptoms each year — lower your risk of falling ill this Autumn by getting your flu shot. Read more about how the shot can help prevent sickness + reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if you do get sick.
Health
Health screenings are meant to help prevent or catch illness early (when it’s easier to treat). But from screenings for cancer to diabetes, hearing loss, and more, knowing what to get tested for can be overwhelming. Learn more about what health screenings you might need and why.