International Self-Care Day is observed on July 24, reminding us that health starts with daily habits. Established in 2011 by the International Self-Care Foundation, the holiday promotes responsible attitudes toward physical, psychological, and emotional well-being, reports infohub.kz.
The core idea is that individuals can do a lot for their health on their own: balanced diet, physical activity, adequate sleep, daily routine, hygiene, quitting bad habits, and attention to emotional state. Organizers emphasize that self-care is not selfishness but a necessary condition for a fulfilling life, affecting family well-being and the ability to help others. The initiative has broad support from the medical community. Every July 24, preventive campaigns, free consultations, sports events, lectures, and educational campaigns are held on social media. In 2019, the World Health Organization held a Self-Care Month from June 24 to July 26.
July 24 also marks Instant Coffee Day. The drink's history began in 1901 with Japanese chemist Satori Kato, who developed the first powder technology. Instant coffee gained widespread popularity thanks to British chemist George Constant Washington, who launched production under the brand Red E Coffee in 1909. The breakthrough came on July 24, 1938, when Nestlé introduced the Nescafé brand as part of a project to process surplus Brazilian coffee. During World War II, the drink became part of the diet of American soldiers and gained global popularity after the war. Today, instant coffee is made from Arabica and Robusta beans, with modern technology preserving aroma and flavor. A few drops of lemon juice or honey can enhance the taste.
The unofficial holiday — Day of Looking into the Future — is dedicated to plans, dreams, and reflections on what lies ahead. It has no official status but is used for discussing prospects, making wish lists, and talking about the future. Interest in predictions has accompanied humanity from oracles and astrology to modern scientific disciplines like futurology. The term "futurology" was coined by German sociologist Ossip Flechtheim in 1943. Ancient methods of divination include bibliomancy (from books) and tasseography (from coffee grounds). In 1939, a time capsule was buried at the New York World's Fair, scheduled to be opened in 6939.
In Ecuador, July 24 is Simón Bolívar Day, honoring the national hero who liberated South American countries from Spanish colonial rule. In the United States, Cousins Day is celebrated, a family holiday reminding of the importance of connecting with cousins.