Category: Healthy Living

Incorporating acts of self-care into your routine can help alleviate stress. The stress response is part of a healthy brain. When you’re stressed, your body releases hormones that cause your brain to become more alert. When your body is exposed to these hormones in short bursts, it can be helpful to complete tasks, such as meeting deadlines or problem- solving. But when no immediate danger is present and your body stays alert, it can damage your health in the long run. By practicing self-care, you are training your body and mind how to respond to stress. You are working to avoid the long-term health complications chronic stress can cause, and you are building resilience for difficult situations you may face …

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All February long, we are putting our attention to the little engine that could … Our heart. This month, while we enjoy sweethearts, roses, and Valentine’s Day cards … it’s also the time to focus on the health of our anatomical heart. Did you know that heart disease and stroke are both considered types of cardiovascular disease? To dive deeper into more heart health facts, who better to speak with than a cardiologist? Fortunately, Carson Tahoe Health has several awesome ones on staff, including Dr. David Baker, MD who breaks down simple ways to make sure your internal engine is running in tip-top shape. David Baker, MD CTH: What is one thing that anyone can do to protect their heart? …

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It’s no secret we have collectively experienced unanticipated changes (and challenges) in the last year. Whether you are adjusting to working from home, having to be a parent AND teacher to your children, or unable to gather with family and friends … it’s definitely been a time to adapt and cope. Many of these coping mechanisms may have negatively affected us either emotionally or physically. With that said, it’s more important now, than ever before, to listen to your body. Heart health, whether it’s tied to your mental health or your atomical heart, is crucial to maintaining your well-being. For years, studies have shown a connection between emotions and heart health (a.k.a. the brain-heart relationship). The University of Wisconsin Health …

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It’s time to ditch the old school chocolate pudding and upgrade to this 5 ingredient, nutrient dense, and delicious chia seed pudding, courtesy of our very own Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Educator, Bridget Woods! Not only will your heart health be thanking you, but your taste buds will too! Ingredients: 6 T chia seeds 1.5 cups of dairy/non-dairy milk (I used Califia Farms Protein Oat milk) 2 T Cacao Powder or Unsweetened cocoa powder Sweetener to Taste (I used 2 T of a natural sugar alternative) Fresh or Frozen Fruit to Garnish (I used Frozen Wild Blueberries) Directions: Add all of the ingredients to a high power blender and blend until desired smooth texture. Chill in refrigerator until cold and …

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Writing in a gratitude journal keeps the spirit of thankfulness alive all year long. A gratitude journal is a dedicated space for you to record what you are grateful for each day. Starting your own gratitude journal is a simple way to exercise thankfulness and reap the mental health benefits of focusing on positivity. People who take time to be grateful are often happier and less stressed. Expressing gratitude can help you recognize kindness in someone and, in turn, show more kindness to others. Not only does feeling appreciative have positive effects on your mind, but it could also improve your physical health. Studies show that practicing gratitude can lower blood pressure and aid your natural defenses against infection and …

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