For people with limited mobility, finding exercises that work well for them can be difficult—especially in the snowy months when everything is ice-covered in Northern Michigan. Discover how seniors stay active during winter. Ericca “CC” Hovie is the Traverse City Program Coordinator at the Grand Traverse County Parks and Recreation Senior Center Network. For nine […]
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How to Find the Right Balance of Screen Time for Kids
It’s tough to decide how much screen time for kids is appropriate. Northern Michigan parents share their tips, ideas and struggles. We’ve all read and heard about the studies touting the dangers of too much screen time. However, sometimes it’s necessary to use screens for homework or as a tool to keep kids occupied while […]
I Want to Be Healthier: Q&A with Traverse City Behavioral Health Specialist Mandy Remai
Are you ready to make a healthy lifestyle change but don’t know where to start? Advice can come from all directions, and it can easily become overwhelming. Here’s a simple solution: Start small. We consult with Traverse City Behavioral Health Specialist Mandy Remai, who works at Munson Healthcare’s Healthy Weight Center and also owns a […]
4 Ways to Be a Healthy Role Model for Your Kids
We’ve all heard the analogy that kids are sponges—while adorable, this can be terrifying for caregivers. You don’t need to worry about what habits they’re soaking up though once you’ve embraced this simple truth: model the behaviors you want your kids to mimic Tara Rybicki, a Traverse City-based Community Health Coordinator for Munson Healthcare, shares […]
How to Make Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Doable Tips & Expert Advice
© Photo by Graceland Fruit Munson Healthcare Community Health Coordinator Tara Rybicki, MS, says small, healthy lifestyle changes quickly add up and are key to meeting your goals. There’s a well-known quote by teacher and author Eckhart Tolle, “If you get the inside right, the outside will fall into place.” And it’s a quote Tara Rybicki […]
Applesauce – No Sugar Added
This applesauce is such a sweet treat you won’t believe it doesn’t have any added sugar! Ingredients: 6 large apples (about 3 lb), any sweet variety (Jonagold, Fuji, Gala, Braeburn, etc.) 1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 cup water Directions: Core and roughly chop the apples into 1-2″ pieces, depending on how chunky you prefer your applesauce. […]
Three Sisters Soup
Perfect hearty soup for fall! The three main components of this dish, the “three sisters,” are the corn, squash, and beans. However, make this dish your own by adding any other veggies you like! Tomatoes, sweet peppers, and chilies are all good add-ins. Makes 8 servings. Want leftovers for lunches? Refrigerate for up to three days […]
Potato, Bean and Kale Skillet
This versatile and hearty recipe could be used as your main meal or as a filling side dish. Makes 4 servings Ingredients: 2 Tbsp canola or olive oil 1 garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup chopped red onion 4 red potatoes, diced 1 tsp chili powder 1/4 tsp salt 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) 2 1/2 […]
Skillet Corn
Delicious side dish to go with any meal! Ingredients: 2 Tbsp canola oil 3 garlic cloves, sliced thin 4 ears corn, kernels cut from cobs 1/2 tsp salt 6 oz cherry tomatoes, halved 1/3 cup feta cheese 1/4 cup shredded fresh basil Lemon juice Directions: Heat oil and garlic in skillet over medium heat. Cook, […]
Healthy, Fun Ways to Reduce Screen Time for Kids and Adults
Numerous studies have been shared cautioning us about the implications of too much screen time, especially for children. In a media-savvy world, this can be difficult. But simple (and fun!) steps can be taken both at home and in the workplace to reduce screen time. Ben Watson, Weight Management Coordinator at Munson’s Foster Family Community Health […]