Give Thanks... Give Life

April is National Donate Life Month! Visit http://donatelife.net to find out how you can give new life to someone through organ donation!

In need of medical coverage? HealthChoice of Michigan can help! Visit www.waynecounty.com/hhs_hchoice.htm or call 1-800-WELL NOW to find out how.

You’re probably freaking out right now… Bikini season is weeks away, but you gave up on your resolution to eat better/workout at the end of January. No need to panic, a simple phone call to a friend is all that’s needed to put you back on track.

A workout buddy is just as beneficial as a personal trainer, but without the price tag of one. Like a personal trainer, a workout buddy can provide you with the motivation needed to make it through your regimen and maintain a regular fitness schedule. They can serve as spotters, introduce you to some new moves and provide some friendly competition; and who doesn’t enjoy a bit of friendly competitionJ?

When choosing a workout buddy, always remember to choose someone on the same fitness level as you or someone with similar fitness goals. If you can barely run up a flight of stairs, working out with someone who runs 5 miles a day may not be the best decision. Lastly, choose someone that you share common interests with outside of the gym. Your workout buddy should be someone that you enjoy being around, otherwise you’ll be dropping your workout like a bad habit.

Remember; when it comes to a workout buddy choose wisely! Hopefully these tips are the solution you need to get your journey to a bikini back on track.

*In need of medical coverage? HealthChoice of Michigan can help! Call 1-800-WELL NOW or visit http://www.waynecounty.com/hhs_hchoice.htm to find out how!*

The days are getting longer and warmer, the flowers and trees are blooming creating a picturesque day and signaling the coming of spring! But for some itchy, watery eyes, a runny nose and sore throats are tell-tale signs of spring. And while these few would love nothing more than to enjoy the beauty of spring, the air out there is populated with allergens making it impossible to enjoy the change of seasons. Although many believe the only relief for spring seasonal allergies is a visit to your doctor for a prescription, there are things you can do at home to get some relief.

1. This is easier said than done, but try to avoid your allergy triggers altogether. Keeping your windows closed (even on a beautiful day) will keep airborne allergies out of your sanctuary and provide instant relief. Showering after you’ve spent time outdoors will reduce the spread of allergens in your home; washing your bedding, clothes and pajamas often will rid your home of bothersome allergens.

2. A saltwater or saline solution (nose spray) can be used as a natural alternative to prescriptions and over-the-counter medications. This solution is easy to make, however, we recommend picking up a bottle of saline solution from your local drugstore. Gargling warm salt water is a natural option to help soothe a sore throat caused by post nasal drip from a runny nose.

3. If the first two tricks aren’t working, then move on to over the counter medications. Taking a non-sedating antihistamine (e.g. Claritin) daily can help; however, if your nose remains congested you can add an oral decongestant pill. Other over-the-counter options for controlling your seasonal allergies are throat lozenges. Throat lozenges will soothe a sore throat, which can get irritated by postnasal drip from a runny nose. Antihistamine eye drops help to relieve itchy, watery eyes.
1. If you build up a tolerance to the over-the-counter brand you are currently taking, switch it up. It’s always best to rotate the types and/or brands of over-the-counter medications you take to ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck!

4. Lastly, never get caught with your pants down! Make certain to have back up medication (e.g. eye drops or nasal spray) available for those spur of the moment attacks.

* In need of medical coverage, HealthChoice can help! Call 1-800-WELL NOW to find out how! *
http://www.waynecounty.com/hhs_hchoice.htm

We all experience it… And it usually happens around 2:30p. That feeling of exhaustion that leaves you wondering how you can possibly make it through the rest of your work day. Below are some helpful tips that will help you stave off the midday yawns!

1. Go Meat-Eating protein throughout the day will help increase mental alertness and energy. Almonds, hard-boiled eggs or low-fat yogurt are high impact alternatives to meat that can travel easily and are easy to store at work.

2. Try a New Brew-White tea contains amino acids that increase alertness, and doesn’t need a lot of sweetening.  

BONUS: White tea is more hydrating than coffee! Hydration is key to staying energized.

3. Walk it Out-Sunlight and exercise are two things that will immediately boost your energy, alertness and endorphins (endorphins make youJ).

4. WOOSAH- As your day progresses your muscles tend to become tense making it hard to relax and focus. Deep breathing will relax your muscles… So go ahead, Breath!

5. HELP!-Resist the urge to scream for help by helping someone else. We get an immediate high from lending a helping hand. Not to mention, focusing on something else may help you to stay alert for your own tasks.

 *In need of medical coverage? HealthChoice can help! Call 1-800-WELL NOW to find out how.*
  www.waynecounty.com/hhs_hchoice.htm

Does a Good Hair Day Really Boost Your Self-Esteem???

YES! It’s been socially and scientifically proven that how you look does matter. How you look has a direct effect on you personal, professional and social interactions.

Why do you think women cut and/or color their hair after a break up?! To many people confidence equals control, and your hair is one piece of your appearance that you have control of. One can easily change his/her hairstyle and if your hair is well kempt, you appear to be well managed or in control.

A woman’s hair is her crown and glory… As a matter of fact, 1 Corinthians 11:15 states, “But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her”. And while women spend a considerable amount of time and money on their hair, men give their hair a considerable amount of thought. Men associate hair with youth and virility. Samson’s hair, the strongest man in the bible, gave him supernatural strength; strength that he lost the moment Delilah cut his hair.  And while the bible references hair in terms of health, Greeks, Romans and early Americans relied on one’s hair to determine their social status.

Remember how we look influences how we feel, and vice versa. So take that extra time to primp in the morning… It could lead to a wonderful day!

In need of medical coverage? HealthChoice of Michigan can help! Call 1-800-WELL NOW to find out how

http://www.co.wayne.mi.us/hhs_hchoice.htm

Healthcare Reform... Is it the cure???

Healthcare Reform has been a hot topic amongst Americans since the bill was introduced a few years back. President Obama believes reform is necessary to (1.) lower healthcare costs, (2.) guarantee your choice of hospitals and doctors, and (3.) assure affordable healthcare for all Americans. While most states, Michigan included, have lawsuits to stop the implementation of the bill in their states, many are passing a bill that will OK the set up of their state’s health insurance exchange.

Like many of you, I wondered what this “health insurance exchange” is; especially since the Michigan State Senate recently approved the bill that will begin the set-up of our state’s website and program. According http://www.whitehouse.gov/realitycheck/faq#i1, the health insurance exchange is a database that will allow uninsured families/individuals and small businesses to shop for affordable insurance options best suited to their needs. This database will also provide employees of larger companies’ additional protections against unfair insurance regulations/practices.

Some pieces of Healthcare Reform have been implemented (i.e. dependant children are covered under their parent’s plan until the age of 26), but many Americans still have questions about reform and just how it will affect them. The best way to get answers to your questions is to (1.) ask and (2.) research. The White House has set up a website to answer many Frequently Asked Questions, http://www.whitehouse.gov/realitycheck/faq, about the reform measures. And while many of your state representatives/senators/congressmen may have their own opinions about healthcare reform, they are a good source of information as well.

*In need of medical coverage? HealthChoice of Michigan can help! Call 1-800-WELL NOW to find out how.*

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What do you look for in a good spa? Is it cleanliness? Experienced staff? An appealing décor? While all the aforementioned things are imperative to an enjoyable spa experience, many health professionals encourage you to be pro-active when it comes to receiving treatments like pedicures. When searching for a salon/spa, the feedback you give or receive is direct, either you liked it or you didn’t. And often times, the media tends to focus on the potential negative effects receiving these popular treatments can have to your health, but there are many positive effects as well. For example, you may not realize that your technician is increasing blood circulation to your calves and feet when you’re receiving that calming massage. This massage alone can reduce pain in your legs and feet. Proper foot care can prevent bacteria growth, ingrown nails as well as foot odor. Some may downplay the positive effects a pedicure can have on your health, but for someone with diabetes or lupus something as remedial as a foot fungus or infection can lead to serious health complications.

Most of us know what to look for when visiting our local salon or spa to ensure a clean enjoyable experience, but did you know many podiatrists recommend bringing your own pedicure tools? This one act will ensure that the instruments used during your treatment are clean and bacteria free. It is also recommended that you remove the polish from your nails a few days before a pedicure and by no means should you ever allow your technician to cut your cuticles or remove dead skin with a foot razor. Instead they recommend you have cuticles gently pushed back and dead skin removed with a pumice stone. Ingrown nails and calluses should be removed by your podiatrist to avoid cuts and infections. Avoiding dark colors is also highly recommended. Darker polishes often times contain formaldehyde, which can result in dry and/or yellow nails. Ladies should postpone shaving their legs till after receiving a pedicure as well. Open cuts and soars leave you susceptible to infection. Lastly, be sure to make your technician aware of any medical conditions you have and/or medications you are taking (e.g. blood thinners).

Following these tips will make every visit to your spa enjoyable and healthy.

Looking for medical coverage, HealthChoice of Michigan can help! Call 1-800-WELL NOW to find out how today!

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procarehp.com

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