WELLNESS CONNECTION · Weekly Tips

Fit Fun

May 20, 2013 - 5:00AM

A novel way to improve your cardiovascular fitness: rent a funny movie! The dilation in blood vessels when we laugh increases blood flow & improves cardiovascular health.

Surprise Inside

May 13, 2013 - 5:00AM

Broaden your experience and surprise your taste buds by trying a new fruit or vegetable the next time you shop. You may find a new favorite!

Postural Adjustment

May 06, 2013 - 5:00AM

A little adjustment, like tilting your rear-view mirror up to an appropriate height when you are sitting up straight, can help you retain good posture, reducing back & neck pain.

Reflex Relax

April 29, 2013 - 5:00AM

Some light hand reflexology, even when done on yourself, can offer benefits like relief from headaches or stretching out tight typist tendons.

Rippling Kindness

April 22, 2013 - 5:00AM

Doing a kindness for another can have a positive effect on your life, not just for the recipient. Doing for others feels good, and can have a ripple effect too.

History Motivates

April 15, 2013 - 5:00AM

After a particularly good workout, take a moment to reflect on how good you feel. Recalling this memory can help provide the motivation you need later.

Sweet Dangers

April 08, 2013 - 5:00AM

Have a sweet tooth? Consider this, not only does sugar contribute to cavities & weight gain, it can also increase triglycerides & reduce the "good" HDL cholesterol.

Anti-aging

April 01, 2013 - 5:00AM

Don't forget about dermatologic care for your neck! Consistently moisturize, up and out, to stimulate and keep that youthful glow.

Healthy Hair

March 25, 2013 - 5:00AM

Keep your hair healthy and strong! Instead of wrapping it up in a towel when wet, massage water out gently and use a wide-tooth comb to detangle.

Healthy Intentions

March 18, 2013 - 5:00AM

Set your intention for a healthy life all around the house: put out healthy foods in the kitchen & arrange your closet to have work-out clothes on display.

Workout Interference

March 11, 2013 - 5:00AM

Plan for things to crop up and interfere with your workout plans. Be ready with a back-up such as a cardio DVD or resistance bands.

Maintain Dietary Focus

March 04, 2013 - 5:00AM

Before giving up on a dietary plan, ask yourself how it will affect your health, energy or appearance. These questions can help keep you on track.

Dry Winter Skin

February 25, 2013 - 5:00AM

Does your skin feel dry this winter? As nice as it feels, try not to linger in a hot shower; it can have very dehydrating effects.

Treatment Guidelines

February 18, 2013 - 5:00AM

Tempted by a tasty cocktail at the Spa? Wait until after your treatment and steam/sauna for optimal benefits, and your personal safety.

Align Your Goals

February 11, 2013 - 5:00AM

When setting goals, look inside, at what matters to you most, and then align your goals with those values and passions.

Kick it into Gear

February 04, 2013 - 5:00AM

Kick off your workout with a fun music mix! Listening to your favorite songs can get your heart racing and your motivation up.

The Language of Food

January 28, 2013 - 5:00AM

Change the language of your food habits, rather than "I can't eat cake," try "I don't eat cake." Empower yourself with choice rather than devil yourself with disapproval.

Bad Flu Year

January 21, 2013 - 5:00AM

It's a bad year for the flu but it's not too late to get your innoculation! You can protect your health and of your loved ones too.

Spa for All

January 14, 2013 - 5:00AM

Relaxation is good at every age. Don't feel anyone is "too old" to visit the Spa or that kids are "too young"; many age-specific treatments are available.

Healthy Vacation

January 07, 2013 - 5:00AM

Ever feel the need for a vacation from your vacation? Consider a healthy retreat, with opportunities to rejuvenate & reflect.

Announce Your New Year Plan

December 31, 2012 - 5:00AM

Having a tough time sticking to your workout plans? Use social media to keep yourself motivated. Announcing plans makes it harder to back out later!

Don’t Get Convinced by Ads

December 24, 2012 - 5:00AM

Watching TV can be more than just an energy drain. All those food commercials can stimulate you to eat when you're not even hungry.

Germ Collectors

December 17, 2012 - 5:00AM

What's one of the biggest germ collectors in a kitchen? The cleaning sponge! Try a paper towel or use freshly laundered towels to clean instead.

How Sweet It Is

December 10, 2012 - 5:00AM

Many of you know how easy it is to set a mood with a scented candle. But, try a seasonal aroma like cinnamon or fir to "spruce" up your home & induce good cheer.

Live & Laugh

December 03, 2012 - 5:00AM

The endorphins released through laughter reduce stress and pain, increasing well-being. Take time to live and laugh!

Easy Routine

November 26, 2012 - 5:00AM

Want to switch your work out routine from evening to morning? Make it easy on yourself by prepping your gym bag and work outfit in advance.

Bribery or Reward?

November 19, 2012 - 5:00AM

Bribery isn't necessarily a bad thing. Rewarding yourself with a special treat, like a new outfit for meeting a weight-loss goal, can keep you positive & focused.

Nightcap for a Cold?

November 12, 2012 - 5:00AM

If you get a cold, remember, as much as you need rest, don't rely on a nightcap to send you off to sleep. Alcohol leads to dehydration & can interrupt your sleep cycle.

So Many Shadows

November 05, 2012 - 5:00AM

Ladies... Your eye color may actually help dictate the color of your shadow - similar color shadows can enhance your eyes.

Schedule Solo Time

October 29, 2012 - 5:00AM

Feeling like your days are always overscheduled? Take some "me" time and reserve a solo date. Relax and enjoy some solitude.

Mental Benefits from Lifting?

October 22, 2012 - 5:00AM

Weight-lifting does more than work your muscles. It works out your memory and builds problem-solving skills too!

Focus on Good Food

October 15, 2012 - 5:00AM

Having trouble making good food choices? Focus on the positive effects of healthy foods; like gaining energy from eating veggies. Reinforce your choices with positive messages.

Don’t Max the Music

October 08, 2012 - 5:00AM

Be cautious with how much time you spend with earphones in; the high decibels can age your ears before their time.

Soothe Your Skin

October 01, 2012 - 5:00AM

Gentlemen, consider this seemingly obvious fact, facial hair grows faster than any other. Try a men's facial with a barber wrap to sooth those speedy follicles.

Learn & Grow

September 24, 2012 - 5:00AM

Did you know? Neurons grow & develop throughout life, so there is always time to learn & grow personally! Try doing something new this week.

Happy Feet

September 17, 2012 - 5:00AM

With hundreds of thousands of sweat glands on your feet, be kind: select quality socks, well-fitting shoes & air your kicks out regularly.

The Lighter Side of Life

September 10, 2012 - 5:00AM

If you are heading out to a concert or show, consider a light meal. Overindulging, aside from inducing sleep, can make hearing less sharp too.

Travel Aid

September 03, 2012 - 5:00AM

A first aid kit is worth the space when traveling. Top items: bandages, ointments like hydrocortisone & neosporin, Diphenhydramine/Benadryl, any prescriptions.

Youthful Glow

August 27, 2012 - 4:59AM

The little specks in a shimmer powder pick up the light, which can make your face look younger and detract from wrinkles.

Avoiding Boredom

August 20, 2012 - 5:00AM

Fill your life with experiences. Boredom can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as drinking or smoking to alleviate tedium. Challenge yourself!

Summer Fitness

August 13, 2012 - 5:00AM

Summer months can be tough on outdoor workouts; be sure to use sunscreen, drink plenty of water and wear a hat whenever possible to beat the heat.

“Snack,” not “Meal”

August 06, 2012 - 5:00AM

Try to keep snacks between 100-200 calories to avoid inadvertently adding an extra "meal" rather than a "snack."

Pharmacy Tip

July 30, 2012 - 5:00AM

Visit your pharmacy during slow business hours to encourage full attention to your prescription and your questions.

Exfoliation?

July 23, 2012 - 5:00AM

Strong exfoliating products can cause skin conditions, irritation and thining, which may make your skin even more sensitive over time. Be gentle.

Take a Chance

July 16, 2012 - 5:00AM

Take a calculated risk! Getting out of your comfort zone can boost confidence and open the door to opportunities previously unseen.

Phone-in Fitness

July 09, 2012 - 5:00AM

Studies show that weekly phone-based accountability increases exercise compliance by 2200%.

Breakfast Portions

July 02, 2012 - 5:00AM

Are you sure you know what your portions are? Try pouring your cereal in it's usual bowl and then measure it out with a cup. You might be surprised!

New Prescription?

June 25, 2012 - 5:00AM

Filling a new medication? Take the proffered pharmacist consult to confirm your doctor's prescription, avoid errors & drug interactions.

A Lighter Foundation

June 18, 2012 - 5:00AM

Remember ladies: thick foundation sinks into fine lines, making them more noticeable. Be light on this aspect of your make-up routine.

Decompress Dad

June 11, 2012 - 5:00AM

Help Dad decompress this Father's Day with a sport-specific massage or a men's facial; work-life balance means self-care too!

Pump Up the Fun

June 04, 2012 - 6:00AM

To increase your fitness & fun, exercise to the beat of music slightly faster than your current walk, jog, elyptical or cycle pace.

Healthiest Snack?

May 28, 2012 - 6:00AM

Healthiest snack? 1 piece of fresh fruit and 8 walnut halves or 12 almonds!

Acupuncture During Pregnancy?

May 21, 2012 - 6:00AM

Acupuncture is a safe, and good, option to treat symptoms such as pain, headache and nausea associated with pregnancy, without medications!

Heat it Up

May 14, 2012 - 6:00AM

A heated towel rack can bring a wonderfully relaxing spa indulgence home!

Beware of Toxicity

May 07, 2012 - 6:00AM

Beware of toxic friends and energy drainers. Take care of yourself by surrounding yourself with positive people who share similar goals.

Supplemental = Sustainable

April 30, 2012 - 6:00AM

Car trouble? Sick children? Supplementing gym workouts with regular, home-based exercise reduces dropout due to unforeseen obstacles.

Skinny(-er) Margarita

April 23, 2012 - 6:00AM

Slimming option for yummy margaritas: tequila, agave, lots of fresh squeezed lime juice and a splash of any other fruit juice of choice.

Calm & Collected

April 16, 2012 - 6:00AM

Many Complementary & Alternative medicine treatments can help stress, directly calming our stress response & boosting relaxation.

Less is More

April 09, 2012 - 6:00AM

A thin layer of moisturizer is all you need; anything extra can just sit atop the skin, leaving you with a greasy look.

Sing Away Stress

April 02, 2012 - 6:00AM

Another great stress-reliever: singing aloud in your car! You don't need to worry about who can hear; just enjoy the release.

Fad-Free!

March 26, 2012 - 6:00AM

Fads can come and go, so look for fitness programs and trainers that rely on evidence-based practices.

Vegetarian Protein

March 19, 2012 - 5:00AM

Try beans on your salad as a vegetarian protein option instead of chicken. Black, kidney, pinto, any are delicious!

Sleep Week

March 12, 2012 - 5:00AM

We just wrapped National Sleep Awareness Week. Have you tried creating a peaceful environment to rest in and limiting technology at bedtime?

Aging Skin

March 05, 2012 - 5:00AM

Two of the most important areas of our skin that often get overlooked? The neck and hands, which will show aging prematurely!

Enrichment Opportunity

February 27, 2012 - 5:00AM

Take time for your favorite hobby or talent! Doing things you love can boost your happiness and enrich lives around you.

Tied to Your Desk?

February 20, 2012 - 5:00AM

If you are chair-bound during your work day, try stretching or doing a little yoga on your coffee breaks.

Sweet Apple

February 13, 2012 - 5:00AM

Need sweet? Slice an apple, place in mircowave dish, drizzle with 1 tsp. maple syrup & a dash of cinnamon, cover and cook 6-7 minutes.

Cold Prevention

February 06, 2012 - 5:00AM

Top ways to prevent a cold: get enough sleep and keep your stress low to maintain a thriving immune system.

Restless Sleep?

January 30, 2012 - 6:00AM

If you're feeling too keyed up to sleep, try unplugging! Electromagnetic fields emitted from electronics can cause restlessness.

Resolutions

January 23, 2012 - 6:00AM

Check in on your New Year's resolutions peridically, and give yourself leeway to change your goals as your priorities may shift over time.

Positive Reframing

January 16, 2012 - 6:00AM

Reframe the way you think about your workouts, for example: "I love the energy I get from cycling!" Keep it positive for best results.

Overindulge?

January 09, 2012 - 6:00AM

Eat too much over the holidays? Commit to two days of lighter eating to compensate for a day of indulgence.

Stay Up on Your Health

January 02, 2012 - 6:00AM

Only 43% of Americans know their current cholesterol levels; stay on top of your health numbers with an annual physical!

Spa Elements

December 26, 2011 - 6:00AM

Bring Spa elements home by using "yin," (calming) colors to ensure a peaceful sleep. Greens, blues and violets are restful.

Track Success

December 19, 2011 - 6:00AM

When pursuing Goals, track successes in units that are observable & measurable; use numbers like pounds, inches, days or weeks.

Winter Activities

December 12, 2011 - 6:00AM

If the gym is getting dull this winter, challenge yourself to a new activity this season like snowshoeing, skating or snowboarding.

Easy Salad Dressing

December 05, 2011 - 6:00AM

For a low-sodium, no additives, salad dressing mix 1 Tbsp olive oil, 1 Tbsp water, juice of 1 lemon & a pinch of salt and pepper.

Avoid Kidney Stones

November 28, 2011 - 6:00AM

Want to avoid kidney stones? Stay hydrated, consume calcium-rich foods but moderate your sodium and protein intake.

Optional Spa Classes

November 21, 2011 - 6:00AM

Many Spas now offer more than just relaxation: look for options that appeal to you such as healthy cooking or hiking classes.

Show Your Thanks

November 14, 2011 - 6:00AM

For healthy relationships, thank others often: Be specific about what they did, the effort it took them and the difference it made to you.

Warm it Up!

November 07, 2011 - 6:00AM

Stretch after you've warmed up your muscles; try 5-10 minutes of light cardio activity then stretch.

Halloween Candy

October 31, 2011 - 6:00AM

Portion out that Halloween candy and save it as the treat that it is! Try storing some in freezer bags for later.

Cracking Knuckles

October 24, 2011 - 6:00AM

Did you know? Cracking your knuckles stretches your ligaments beyond their intended range and can cause joints to wear out prematurely.

Have Contacts?

October 17, 2011 - 6:00AM

Just as you would mention medical concerns to a spa therapist, alert your esthetician if you wear contacts before a facial.

Feel Good

October 10, 2011 - 6:00AM

Listening to calming music can lower your blood pressure, relieve anxiety & trigger the release of endorphins-the 'feel good' hormones.

Open Airways

October 03, 2011 - 6:00AM

Always maintain an open airway when doing resistance exercise or lifting weights; your body will feel better with more oxygen!

Try Nut Butter for Breakfast

September 26, 2011 - 6:00AM

To lower inflamation in the body, which causes chronic disease, use natural nut butters daily. Try on toast for breakfast!

Generic Drug FYI

September 19, 2011 - 6:00AM

Generic drugs are allowed to vary from brand by 20%, so remember they are similar, but not identical to, brand name drugs.

Skip These at the Spa

September 12, 2011 - 6:00AM

Some things can be just as well left at home during a Spa visit: cell phones, perfumes and personal items like jewelry.

Window of Focus

September 05, 2011 - 6:00AM

Build 5 minute �windows of focus� into your day where no multitasking takes place to increase your attention span and concentration.

Stretching Routine

August 29, 2011 - 6:00AM

Set a timer at your desk or work station and stand up to stretch every 30 minutes. You will feel benefits the first day!

Pomegranate Tea

August 22, 2011 - 6:00AM

Add 1 cup pomegranate juice to a quart of green tea and pour over ice for a refreshing fruity drink high in antioxidants.

Varicose veins

August 15, 2011 - 6:00AM

Varicose veins can not only be cosmetic problems but can become inflamed and painful; however, new treatments are available!

Spa Dining

August 08, 2011 - 5:00AM

While drinking water is always a good idea before and after a spa treatment, try to limit eating to at least an hour before.

Humor for your Health

August 01, 2011 - 5:00AM

Finding humor in a situation, being able to laugh at yourself and not taking yourself too seriously can do wonders to manage stress.

Healthy Waist

July 25, 2011 - 5:00AM

A waist size >40" for a man and >35" for a woman significantly increases the risk for heart disease and cancer. Stay trim for your health!

Fresh Berries!

July 18, 2011 - 5:00AM

Freeze fresh blueberries now, while they are inexpensive, for use in winter months! Just wash, dry and place in sealable containers.

Good Health

July 11, 2011 - 6:00AM

An annual physical is a good first step toward managing your health.

Avoiding Irritation

July 04, 2011 - 6:00AM

To avoid irritation, remember to shave at least two hours prior to your spa treatment.

Small Steps to Change

June 27, 2011 - 6:00AM

When making a change, acknowledge each small step forward with a healthy reward to stay motivated, reminding yourself you're in motion.

Featured Recipe

Weekly Tip

A novel way to improve your cardiovascular fitness: rent a funny movie! The dilation in blood vessels when we laugh increases blood flow & improves cardiovascular health.