This newsletter is brought to you in partnership with Prisma Health.
Wellness
Treat yourself (locally) for self-care month
Columbia proves self-care can be easy with a multitude of fun self-care activities, eats + more. | Photo by @tribeyogawellness
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, COLA has plenty of studios with yoga classes for all fitness levels.
Try a new hobby
A hobby can give you something to look forward to after “adulting” all day. Spark joy this self-care month by finding a new hobby that interests you.
Need some inspo? Check out this list for adult athletic, art, and cooking classes around Columbia.
Feel the fresh air
Fresh air and sunshine can help boost your mood and clear your mind. Put on your favorite playlist and enjoy a stroll at one of these local + accessible trails.
Grab a healthy treat
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 Midlands.
Plan a self-care staycation
We saved the best for last. Go the extra mile by planning a self-care staycation at a local hotel, luxury treehouse, cottage, or at Cola’s Hideaway Pool House.
Yoga in the Galleries | Monday, Sept. 18 | 6-7 p.m. | Columbia Museum of Art | $12-$15 | Flow alongside the art in the CMA Collection galleries during this one-hour restorative beginner’s yoga practice.
South Carolina Triathlon Series Dam Tri | Saturday, Oct. 7 | 8-11:30 a.m. | Lake Murray Public Park, 1832 N. Lake Dr., Lexington | $70-$170+ | The 13th annual Dam Tri features a lake swim, bike race, and run on a triathlon course set up along the Lake Murray Dam.
Sports
PETSinc Golf Tournament | Monday, Sept. 18 | 12:15 p.m. | Country Club of Lexington, 1066 Barr Rd., Lexington | $125+ | Sign up to play solo or as part of a group in this annual golf tournament with proceeds supporting the no-kill animal rescue organization, PETSinc.
Blythewood Farmers Market | Wednesday, Oct. 4 | 4-7 p.m. | Doko Meadows Park, 171 Langford Rd., Blythewood | Free | A weekly evening farmers market happening Wednesdays through November with local farmers + vendors, plus food and live music.
Community
The Market at Richland Library | Wednesday, Sept. 13 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | Richland Library Main, 1431 Assembly St. | Free | Stroll and shop at this community market featuring goods from local farmers, bakers, artists, creators, and more.
Infant and Maternal Mortality Awareness | Saturday, Sept. 16 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Caughman Road Park, 2733 Trotter Rd., Hopkins | Free, pre-registration encouraged | Join Prisma Health for this community awareness event featuring educational sessions, health screenings, storytime for kids, and more.
Health
Falls Prevention Screening | Friday, Sept. 15 | 1-4 p.m. | Prisma Health Physical Therapy Specialists, 3010 Farrow Rd., Suite 100 | Free, registration required | Sign up for a free screening to assess your risk factors for a fall + learn how to reduce your chances of a fall injury.
Registration is open for the 2023 Walk for Life and Famously Hot Pink Half Marathon + 5K coming up on Saturday, Oct. 14. The race celebrates breast cancer survivors, and proceeds benefit Prisma Health Breast Center’s programs and services to help those in the fight against breast cancer.
Wellness
In the spirt of self-care, sign up for this free outdoor yoga class on Saturday, Oct. 7 at the South Carolina Statehouse grounds. Good Company Yoga is leading this community class in honor of World Mental Health Day.
Open
In case you missed it, Break Point Cola — a locally-owned tennis and pickleball store — recently opened at 719 Saluda Ave. in Five Points. The store sells everything you need to take to the courts, from attire to rackets + paddles, and more.
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.
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.