LiveWell Vermont

Winter Driving Safety Tips By Scott Ptak, ARM, CUSP, SHRM PMA Management Corporation of New England     Even here in Vermont when winter weather strikes, drivers face some out-of-the-ordinary challenges when they get behind the wheel. Snow, slush or icy roads are involved in nearly one in four weather-related vehicle crashes. These conditions can make it harder for drivers to see, slow down and stop – all factors that can increase the chances of an accident. If you must travel during winter weather, preparing your car in advance, knowing the forecast and driving based on road conditions are three key ways to help you drive more safely. Even if you’ve been driving in the Vermont snow your entire life, it’s always good to be reminded of the dangers.   Here are some winter driving safety tips to help you prepare for the elements – before you face them – on the road. Preparing Your Vehicle As temperatures start to drop, it’s time to make sure your car is stocked with a

What has a population of about 625,000 residents, is 159 miles top to bottom and has a motto of “freedom and unity”, the great state of Vermont!! Vermont's name comes from the French phrase “vert mont,” meaning “green mountain” hence it being the “Green Mountain State.” We are going to share a few fun facts about how awesome Vermont is! Vermont became the 14th state to join the union in 1791; it was the first admitted after the thirteen colonies. Vermont's the largest producer of maple syrup in the U.S., producing over 500,000 gallons a year. It takes ~40 years for a sugar maple to grow large enough to produce syrup. It needs to be about 10 inches in diameter. It can take up to 40 gallons of sap to produce a single gallon of syrup!! Vermont is the nation’s #1 producer of marble. With a population of just 7,484 in 2017, Montpelier is the smallest state capital in the U.S. Foliage season is HUGE in Vermont. Did you know there is a team that tracks and maps when folia

1. Pay attention to how you fuel your body. Having a waistline that measures larger than 40 inches can increase obesity related diseases. Avoided packaged and processed foods that are often full of sugar, salt, unhealthy fats, artificial additives, and calories. Instead gravitate in the direction of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain products (brown rice and whole-grain breads), fiber-rich foods (beans and leafy greens), lean cuts of meat and poultry (skinless chicken breast and lean ground beef), and fish (salmon). These foods provide natural antioxidants that lower your risk of disease. Vitamins: You can get vitamins from the foods you eat. Check out this Eat Your ABC’s handout. You might also benefit from taking a daily vitamin. Ask your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of adding a multivitamin to your daily routine. 2. Exercise is medicine! Physical activity is so important for your mental and physical health. The Physical Activity Guidelines for an a

If you just completed the "Treat Yo'Self" Challenge this might look familiar, but we love it too much not to share with all State of Vermont employees!! Check out this simple way to change how you think just by listing 3 good things a day.

Veterans Day is a holiday to honor all veterans of the United States armed forces. A traditional observation is a moment of silence at 11 AM remembering those who fought for peace. This holiday started as a day to reflect upon the heroism of those who died in our country's service and was originally called Armistice Day . It fell on Nov. 11 because that is the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. However, in 1954, the holiday was changed to "Veterans Day" in order to account for veterans in all wars. Difference in Veterans Day and Memorial Day? Veterans Day honors all who have served their country whereas Memorial Day commemorates those who have laid down their lives for U.S. national defense. However you choose to spend your day, make sure you find some time to show gratitude to those who have dedicated their lives to protecting this country and their families who make sacrifices as well.

This simple side dish is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dinner. Ingredients: 1/2 cup cider vinegar 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock or canned low-sodium broth 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks 2 medium red onions, each cut into 8 wedges through the core 1 cup vacuum-packed whole chestnuts (6 ounces) 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon thyme leaves Salt and freshly ground pepper 2 medium beets, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks 2 large tart apples, such as Granny Smith, cored and cut into eighths How to Make It: Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°. In a small saucepan, combine the cider vinegar, chicken stock, butter and maple syrup and bring to a boil. Cook over moderately high heat until reduced by half, about 15 minutes. Step 2: Meanwhile, in a large shallow roasting pan, toss the sweet potatoes, onions and chestnuts with the olive oil and

We all have a lot to be thankful for, especially during Fall in Vermont. Appreciating the everyday gifts in our life can boost your happiness and overall sense of well-being! Feeling and expressing gratitude is one of the BEST mood boosters. One study from the University of Pennsylvania found that people who wrote and delivered a heartfelt thank-you letter actually felt happier for a full month after, and the same researchers discovered that writing down three positive events each day for a week kept happiness levels high for up to six months. By writing down positive things that happen to you and actively acknowledging those who have helped you, you become better at recognizing the good in your life, which naturally helps you feel more grateful and thankful more often. Keep in mind the goal of this practice is not to create a book of things you are grateful for but to train yourself to recognize simple pleasures in everyday life! People who experience the most gratitude (an