Did you know?
What exactly is Movember? That’s exactly what I asked myself when I first heard the term. Well, in short, Movember is a fun, global movement that takes place in November, where many of your male friends and co-workers embark on a 30-day journey to grow their facial hair out, going from clean-shaven look to grizzly bear look, all to raise awareness about cancer and men’s health. From goatees to old-western staches, men from all walks of life sport playful looks to support an amazing cause. Whether you’re familiar with Movember or not, these five facts will open your mind to what this movement is all about.
More Than A Focus On Cancer
While the aim of Movember is to increase early cancer detection and reduce proventable deaths, contrary to popular belief, Movember isn’t just a movement to raise awareness about cancer. It also brings focus to men’s health issues including depression in men, and other mental and physical health issues. The hope is that getting involved will encourage men to explore their family histories and adopt healthier lifestyles.
Starting Clean
In order to participate, men are supposed to shave their face at the beginning of November and “donate their face” to the cause through the entire month. This is a great opportunity for men to show off their facial-haired look, especially if they never wear any. In addition, you can do more than just raise awareness through your hair growing efforts. You can also get involved by raising funds to the various organizations connected with Movember.
Not Just For Men
There is another movement connected with Movember called No-Shave November which encourages people to donate what they may have spent in grooming costs to the American Cancer Society. While Movember generally focuses on the mustache, No-Shave November expands to other realms of hair. Both men and women are encouraged to grow out their hair, men on their faces, women, by skipping leg shaving or salon visits. Women can also participate by encouraging the men in their lives to participate in the movement.
There Are Movements All Over the World
The Movember movement actually started in Australia in 2003 to raise awareness for prostate and testicular cancers. The nonprofit, the Movember Foundation raised $21 million in its first years and continues to gain support and traction. The movement has generated campaigns in over 20 countries, not just focusing on cancer, but also on men’s mental and physical health.
