A moment of calm from a century ago: Vernon’s soldiers pause during training
A photograph preserved by the Museum and Archives of Vernon captures Canadian soldiers taking a rare break along the roadside at Camp Vernon, the Vernon Army Camp, in 1915. With the First World War underway, these men were in the midst of strenuous training, and the image prompts reflections on what they might have been thinking as they rested before what lay ahead—whether they would be sent overseas and what dangers or distances they would face.
National Relaxation Day arrives on August 15, a yearly reminder to slow down, unwind, and focus on taking care of ourselves. It’s a day that invites people to pause the hustle of daily life and recharge, much like the soldiers in that old Vernon photograph found a moment of respite during a demanding period of service.
The day’s origin is as unlikely as the concept is practical. National Relaxation Day was founded in 1985 by Sean Moeller, then a fourth-grader in the United States. In an interview with The Des Moines Register, Moeller suggested that people should give themselves a break from “real work” and avoid activities that aren’t truly relaxing. The idea has resonated with many who see stress as a threat to health and well-being.
What counts as relaxation? A range of simple, restorative activities are commonly suggested, including:
– Reading a book
– Fishing with a friend
– A picnic in the park
– Walking along the beach
– Taking a drive in the countryside
– Visiting a spa or enjoying a day out with friends
– Golfing, photography, or catching a movie
– Window shopping or sharing a meal with friends
– Watching sports or taking a dip in the water
Experts and wellness guides frequently echo the sentiment behind Moeller’s idea: giving the mind and body a chance to recuperate can help reduce stress and support overall health. Nationaldaycalendar.com, which tracks awareness days, emphasizes that taking time to rest can help prevent fatigue and other health risks associated with chronic stress.
A note for readers: the Vernon image and National Relaxation Day together provide a bridge between history and contemporary well-being. The soldiers’ quiet moment amidst the rigors of wartime training stands in contrast to today’s emphasis on mindful, deliberate breaks. Perhaps the takeaway is simple—regular, genuine rest can bolster morale, resilience, and health, no matter the era.
If you’re looking for ways to observe National Relaxation Day, consider choosing one of the activities listed above, scheduling a short downtime break in your day, or simply taking a few minutes to slow your breathing and reset your pace. It’s a small practice with potential big benefits, especially for those who carry heavy workloads or stress.
Summary: A vintage image of Vernon’s soldiers serves as a historical reminder that rest has long been essential, and National Relaxation Day encourages everyone to weave calmer moments into their busy lives in the present.
Additional value notes:
– This piece connects a historical moment with a modern wellness message, highlighting the enduring importance of rest for mental and physical health.
– For readers curious about local history, consider visiting regional archives or museums to explore more photographs and records from Camp Vernon and other military sites from the era.
– A hopeful angle: by embracing small, regular breaks, communities can foster greater well-being and resilience, echoing the quiet strength seen in the Vernon photograph.