Words from Wellness | November 2023

Virtual Cooking Class 12.14.23 @ 5:30 pm

Grab your aprons and join the Wellness Committee on Thursday, December 14th for an evening of cooking, learning, and fun. We’ll be hosting a virtual cooking class, taught by Heather Carey of Green Palette Kitchen . Heather is a clinical nutritionist, whole foods chef and speaker. She’ll instruct us through the menu items below and will answer any questions we have. This class is meant for all skill levels, and we hope you’ll invite your spouses, partners and kids to join you! The class will begin at 5:30 pm and lasts 90 minutes. Please note that a shopping list for ingredients will be provided beforehand, as well as an equipment list. Heather will be sharing modifications to the recipes for vegan and vegetarian options, as well as food allergies. /// MENU /// Cider Braised Chicken Breasts with Apples and Kale Creamy Polenta Arugula Pear Salad with Lemony Dressing Just a reminder.... Don’t forget to make sure of the “Well-Health” Reimbursement Program ! Employees will receive a onetime $100 Gift Card reimbursement for many health or wellness related expenses. Please reach out to Shannon Powers or Jessica Fasi if you have any questions about eligible expenses. To receive your gift card, send an email to Shannon Powers with your proof of purchase. This must be a detailed invoice or receipt that shows the vendor, date and item purchased. Be generous with gratitude, for it is contagious. Please RSVP here by Thursday, December 7th.

As the vibrant colors of summer fade into the warm and cozy hues of autumn, our routines and lifestyles undergo a transformation. This article explores practical fall health tips and insights to maximize this enchanting season while prioritizing your physical and mental health.

1. Schedule a Check-Up Wellness exams often involve reviewing your medical history and physical examination and discussing symptoms or concerns. Through these exams, healthcare providers can identify problems early when they are more manageable and often less expensive to treat. Early detection can lead to better outcomes and may even save lives. 2. Get a Flu Shot Flu season occurs in the fall and winter months when influenza (the flu) viruses are more active and can spread more easily. Annual vaccination is recommended for most individuals six months and older, with few exceptions. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best timing and type. 3. Take a Vitamin D Supplement Boosting your temperament and supporting your immune system in the autumn can be vital for your well-being when there is reduced sunlight and the risk of seasonal illnesses. Vitamin D plays a role in mood regulation and immune function and can be Eating in-season is a great way to enjoy fresh, nutritious meals. Here are some healthy food options to contemplate when planning your autumn meals: Root Vegetables, Winter Squash, Apples and Pears, Cruciferous Vegetables, Dark Leafy Greens, Pumpkin, Cranberries, Nuts, Mushrooms, Herbs, Whole Grains, Lean Proteins. 5. Spend Time Outdoors Staying active with walks, runs, and yard work in autumn is a fantastic way to enjoy the fall weather while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. relevant during this time of year. 4. Eat Healthy and Seasonal

6. Keep Your Skin Moisturized Here are some fall health tips for dry skin as it gets colder: • Keep your skin hydrated - drink plenty of fluids and apply moisturizer often. • Take shorter, cooler showers. • Use a humidifier. • Avoid harsh soaps and detergents. • Exfoliate often. • Wear sunscreen. • See a doctor if your skin is severely dry or doesn’t improve with home treatments. 7. Layer Up When Temperatures Drop As the weather cools in autumn, dress in layers. Wear moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from your skin, add insulating layers for warmth, and top it with a windproof and waterproof outer layer if necessary. Remember to wear a hat and gloves to protect against the chill. 8. Be Vigilant About Hand Washing By prioritizing proper handwashing, you can protect yourself and those around you from illness, maintain good health throughout autumn, and contribute to community well-being. 9. Take Time for Self Care Autumn can be a wonderful season, but it also has changes in weather, daylight hours, and routines. Below are some fall health tips to navigate your mental well-being this season:

■ Get plenty of natural light. ■ Stay socially connected. ■ Set goals. ■ Engage in seasonal activities. ■ Prioritize sleep. ■ Limit exposure to negative news. ■ Seek professional help if needed. ■ Practice gratitude.

Source: https://medicalhousecallstn.com/fall-health-tips/

2024 HEALTH INSURANCE PLAN OPEN ENROLLMENT >>>> November 15 - December 15 <<<< Open enrollment has begun! As communicated by Shannon Powers, throughout the time period of 11/15/23 - 12/15/23, employee owners will be able to make changes and/or additions to their Health Insurance elections via Paycom. Please be sure to attend one of the Open Enrollment review sessions being offered. As a reminder, this year you will be required to enroll or decline the 2024 Medical and Dental Insurance Plans via Paycom.