Families

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 […]

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 […]

6 Great Healthy Lifestyle Apps for Food, Exercise and Sleep

There are many ways technology can help you live a healthier lifestyle, no matter where you live in Northern Michigan or what equipment you have. And these resources couldn’t be more convenient than through cell phone apps. From fitness to food to sleep, check out these six healthy lifestyle apps.   Fooducate  Ben Watson, Weight […]

Get Outside! 6 Free Guided Hikes in Northern Michigan

Need a breath of fresh Northern Michigan air—and to get in some light exercise? Guided group hikes and events can be an excellent alternative to a self-led hike. No mapping trails. No additional safety precautions. No extra stress. Just enjoying the woodland views and wonderful company. Here are a handful of free Northern Michigan hiking […]

5 Tips for Camping with Kids in Northern Michigan + The Essential Packing List

It’s not summertime in Northern Michigan without a family camping trip! That is, camping without hassles. Whether you’re planning a trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore or heading up the Lake Michigan coastline to Mackinaw City, these tips for camping with kids will help your whole family have a stress-free adventure. Tip #1: Pack Like a Pro […]

5 Northern Michigan Blueberry U-Pick Farms with Fresh, Juicy Berries

Bringing your family on a blueberry-picking adventure is fun for everyone. Prime time for blueberries Up North is mid-to-late summer. Are you ready?! Enjoy the healthy activity at these Northern Michigan blueberry U-pick farms, and read ahead for yummy recipes to try at home with your fresh berries. BUCHAN’S BLUEBERRY HILL For more than 100 […]

10 Northern Michigan Summer Activities for Endless Family Fun

Sometimes you just need a little inspiration for summer fun with the kiddos. There are endless opportunities for outdoor fun, so we’ve created this list of 10 healthy and affordable Northern Michigan summer activities to keep your family moving. Stargazing Before the sun goes down, pitch a tent in your backyard—even if it’s a bed […]