LiveWell Vermont

The year 2020 has been an unpredictable ride through the pandemic, protests and many more difficulties that had made living life quite hard for people across the globe. But as we near the end of this year, we all should accept the fact that with every passing year, one should leave behind the bad memories and mistakes. So now, as we embrace the upcoming year, 2021, let us all be positive and cheery with shining spirits and aspirations for the future. We should vow to not let the negative times affect us in looking forward to the future and working hard to achieve our dreams and ambitions. So, let us all embrace the new year with much-needed hopes and happiness.

Do you use the New Year as an annual health seminar with yourself? If so you are not alone! This year especially, I think we are ALL looking forward to a fresh start. First and foremost let's  be kind. To yourself. To others. Always – it really does make a difference. Next, set a goal that means something to you personally. It does not have to be extravagant.  Set a goal and come up with a simple plan/make it measurable . Check out our   SMALL steps formula   on how to take successful steps toward your goals or these tools that help us make healthy living easier. Some potential focus areas may include: clean eating, non-toxic living, organic movement or mindfulness! Spend some time thinking about how you want to modify your new year.  Goals to ponder... 1. Add more fruits and vegetables at each meal Consuming a variety of colored fruits and vegetables have  shown  to promote longevity, disease prevention and overall wellness. 2. Drink half your body we...

  It’s the little things that end up making big differences! Whether you are looking for more balance in your life or you are having a hard time getting out of bed because of depression, scheduling activities for yourself can help increase your energy and improve your mood. Take time for yourself to practice good self-care. GRAPES is an activity scheduler that can help you keep track of your progress and give you a sense of accomplishment. There are 6 types of activities and they can be as simple or as challenging as you make it. Remember, it’s about progress, not perfection! Do your best to do most tasks each day. If you can’t, pay attention to specific areas you may be missing and aim to do those more the next week. Even if you don’t feel like doing something or you have very low energy, going through the motions will eventually help your mood to improve. So, what is GRAPES exactly?  GRAPES  is an acronym that stands for: Gentle With Self Relaxation Accomplishment ...

Massage Who doesn't love a massage? After all the Stress of the Holiday, your muscles could use some tension relief! Group Fitness Class Does your friend have a favorite class? Most places offer a discount for a multi class punch card! Treat them to health! Personal Training Session Whether they are new to the gym or looking to revamp an old routine, a session with an experienced professional could be just what they need! Foam Roller They love to workout — but when their muscles ache, you hear about it. This foam roller will help keep your favorite fitness lover loose and flexible. It’s small enough to travel with too. Fitness Kettlebell Set Help them stock their home gym with this highly rated set, featuring 5, 10 and 15-pound kettlebells. The bright hues are motivating, too. Yoga Mat The lightweight mat (it’s just one pound) folds up into a square so they can pack it into their carry-on. It's a great option for the yogi who likes to flow on the go! Water Bottle A stylish wate...

Baby, it’s cold outside! But that doesn’t mean you need to hang up your walking shoes until springtime. Whatever the weather, it can still be a good time for outdoor exercise. The secret is to be prepared. Here’s how you can stick with your walking routine when the temperatures drop. 1. Wear Layers - use the 3 layer method Layer 1: This layer should wick sweat from your body and dry quickly. A synthetic fabric like Coolmax® or polypropylene will do the trick.  Layer 2: This layer provides insulation. Try a fast-drying synthetic fabric like Polartec®, or a wool blend. Avoid cotton; if it gets wet, it will not dry quickly. Depending on how cold it is, you can wear this layer on the top or bottom, or just the top. Layer 3: This layer protects you from the elements. Waterproof or water-resistant jackets and pants will help keep rain and snow out. Look for jackets and pants with vents that you can open and close to help regulate temperatures.  2. Don’t Forget Your Fingers - Wh...

When we think of fruits and vegetables in season, we usually think of the new growth of spring, the ripening warmth of summer, or the harvests of fall. But it might surprise you to see how much rich, colorful produce blossoms in the cool of winter! Here are seven recipes that feature delicious winter veggies to treat your taste buds, fill your belly, and warm your bones.  Check out these delicious recipes from Livongo!

 With the transition to more time at home comes more time in the kitchen! COVID-19 has caused a lot of us to cook more! Some of us have been using using this time to experiment with new recipes and others finding solace in tried and true comfort food.  We asked our Wellness Ambassadors to share with us their favorite ways to nourish themselves! They have provided some DELICIOUS versions of their favorite foods. We hope you enjoy!

  EAP has another opportunity to Lunch & Learn scheduled for next Tuesday, December 8th. This is part of a series of FREE WEBINARS to support us through this "new normal". This next webinar will cover:  Your Powerful Mind and the Effect of Self Talk Dec 08, 12:00 PM – 12:30 PM Join us during this encouraging presentation to bring awareness to your thoughts, feelings and behaviors, and how to influence your mind-body connection. Webinars will be hosted online through Zoom.  These free, EAP members-only sessions are designed to be educational, supportive, and inclusive. Registration is limited to 300 attendees per session,  register today ! Additional resources are available on the  Invest EAP Website ! ​

You are probably familiar with Black Friday and Cyber Monday...but have you heard about GIVING TUESDAY?!? Today is a day meant to encourage seasonal giving.  #GivingTuesday launched in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y , the UN Foundation , and numerous partners, the inaugural #GivingTuesday was hugely successful, fueling a dramatic increase in charitable giving. Blackbaud reported that it processed $10 million in online donations during the first #GivingTuesday, marking a 53% increase in donations over those received on the same day during the previous year. Endorsed by celebrities, politicians and thought leaders alike, the initial campaign received 2.5 million social media impressions , with the #GivingTuesday hashtag trending nationally and ultimately being mentioned 185,000 times online . Below are a few tips to maximize your own Giving Tuesday experience. These "gifts" do not have to be extravagant! They can be small gestures of gratitude or kindness. For even more actionable...

For variety, convenience, and more structured home exercise, you can't beat exercise videos. There are workouts for every age, gender, goal and interest, and you can workout anytime you like in the privacy of your own home. The best thing about exercise videos: There are thousands upon thousands to choose from, so almost anyone can find a video they like. The worst thing about exercise videos: There are thousands upon thousands to choose from, making the search for the perfect video an overwhelming process. Best for Beginners :   Leslie Sansone's Walking at Home Videos ,   Shapely Girl Workout Videos Great Circuit Training Videos : Paul Katami's Hollywood Bootcamp 4x4, Michelle Dozois' Peak 10 More Cardio Strength, and Cathe Friedrich's Circuit Max. Best High-Intensity Cardio Videos :  Amy Dixon's Breathless Body 2 , Michelle Dozois' Peak 10 Cardio Interval Burn,  Cathe Friedrich's HiiT Training Best for Seniors : Jane Fonda's Prime Time Firm and Bur...