September 23rd: Native Americans Day

You may not realize that rather than celebrate Columbus Day each year, California and South Dakota have the public holiday Native Americans Day instead. The holiday's purpose is to explore, support and share in the traditions and cultural background of Native Americans. In California it is observed the fourth Friday of September (9/23 this year), and on the second Monday in October (10/10) in South Dakota. Indigenous People's Day is similarly observed instead of Columbus Day in Berkeley, CA, as well as in Minnesota and Washington State.

One way you can observe Native Americans Day this year is by trying out some of the ways the tribes traditionally promoted good health.

Play some games!Both indigenous men and women played a wide variety of active sports, often with the goal of ensuring a good harvest or healing the sick. Although many tribes claim to be the inventors of lacrosse, it was definitely a game that was played in the hopes that their tribe would prosper. Here are some games you and your family might try. 

Dance, baby!  Whether it was for healing or prayer, initiation or storytelling, there are, and were, many reasons for the indigenous peoples to dance. Join them! For inspiration, watch some Native American dances on YouTube.

Eat Well.  The introduction of European foods changed the indigenous peoples' diet—mostly for the worse. Many Native Americans have Type 2 diabetes. Try a recipe or two with the traditional, healthier ingredients.

Observe Native Americans Day like a healthy American!