With June behind us, we’ve reached the halfway mark of 2025, making it the perfect moment to ask: how’s your health doing?
Chances are, you kicked off the year with good intentions. Maybe you vowed to eat better, move more, manage your stress or finally book that overdue check-up. But life happens, and six months on, those goals might have slipped off your radar.
“The winter solstice is a powerful reminder that we’re halfway through the year,” says Tania Joffe, founder of Unu Health. “It’s traditionally a time of rest, reflection and storytelling. That makes it a brilliant moment to pause and take stock of your physical and mental health and reset if needed.”
South Africa’s health stats are a wake-up call:
- 1 in 3 adults has high blood pressure (many without realising it).
- 1 in 10 South Africans lives with diabetes, with a large number undiagnosed.
- Over 68% of women and 31% of men are overweight or obese; a key risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
“These aren’t just stats — they’re red flags,” says Joffe. “Mid-year is a great time to check in and tweak your habits. Small daily choices can have a big impact by year-end.”
Start with a quick self-audit:
- Had a health screening this year?
- Getting enough sleep, managing stress and moving your body?
- Eating for energy or just convenience?
- Ignoring any nagging symptoms?
The good news? You don’t need a total life overhaul. “Just one or two realistic changes can make a big difference,” says Joffe. “And if you haven’t seen a doctor in a while, now’s the time.”
As the days slowly start to stretch again, let that be your cue to prioritise your wellbeing. It’s not too late, in fact, it might just be the best time to begin again.
