In celebration of International Women’s Day, the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Dias d'Ávila, a city located 50 kilometers from Salvador, organized a Women’s Health Fair to offer free medical and wellness services. The event went beyond traditional tributes, providing women with practical opportunities for self-care through health screenings, consultations, and discussions on well-being.
A Holistic Approach to Women's Health
The fair featured a multidisciplinary team, including a physiotherapist, psychologist, and nurse, who offered guidance on essential health topics. Attendees also participated in a lecture and discussion group focused on women’s health, emphasizing the importance of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
“Today, we see that the rush of everyday life has caused women to neglect their own health, and this needs to change,” said obstetric nurse Josilene Magalhães. “It is important for them to understand that stress is directly linked to intimate health and to take appropriate precautions.” Magalhães also highlighted that the event was an opportunity to share the biblical and health principles promoted by the Adventist Church, demonstrating their positive impact on women’s lives.
Encouraging Self-Esteem and Personal Care
Beyond physical health, the event placed a strong emphasis on self-esteem and personal well-being. According to event coordinator Ednalva Souza, many women in the local community struggle with self-confidence and seek ways to improve their appearance and overall well-being.
“We know that many women here want to feel better about themselves, so we created activities that encourage self-care and self-esteem, while also addressing the eight natural remedies promoted by Adventist health principles,” said Souza.
To ensure a comprehensive wellness experience, the fair also provided beauty and relaxation services, including haircuts, braiding, eyebrow design, and massage therapy.
The Burden of Multitasking: Addressing Women's Overload
The fair also highlighted the mental and physical toll women often face due to their multiple responsibilities. According to Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) data, in 2022, Brazilian women dedicated an average of 21 hours per week to household chores and caregiving. Additionally, the Ministry of Labor and Employment reported that in 2024, women’s participation in the labor market reached 53.3%, reflecting an increasing workload both inside and outside the home.
Psychologist Michele Fernandes underscored the importance of intentional self-care to prevent burnout.
"We women are living in a time that demands a lot from us—being professionals, mothers, caregivers, and individuals," said Fernandes. "What I advise is for women to take time for themselves, whether it’s reading, going out with friends, or simply enjoying a moment of peace. These may seem like small things, but they are essential for maintaining well-being and managing everyday challenges."
A Community-Centered Initiative
The impact of the fair extended beyond the individual participants. Many women, after experiencing the event’s benefits, encouraged their loved ones to join.
“When I tried out the activities here, I had to go home and bring my family with me,” said Heloísa dos Santos, a housewife and one of the beneficiaries. “I couldn’t let an opportunity like this pass me by. I liked everything, it was wonderful. And if it happens again, I’ll definitely come back.”
By addressing physical, mental, and emotional health, the Adventist Church’s Women’s Health Fair provided a meaningful and lasting impact on the local community, reinforcing the message that caring for oneself is not only essential but also a way to better care for others.
The original article was published on the South American Division Portuguese news site.
