Shandra Martinez
Sustainable Holiday Gift Guide
Ready to save money and go easy on the Earth this season? Buy your friends and family sustainable gifts.
When You Should Talk to Your Doctor About Cramps
For most women, having cramps is part of having your period. But here are some signs to watch for that mean you might need to talk to your doctor.
Turkey Trots Happening Across Michigan in 2024
It’s time to sign up for Turkey Trots. These holiday races offer runners of any level a chance to go outside and get moving with family and friends. The races are a fun way for everyone to have fun and burn some calories before gearing up to celebrate the rest of the day.
Best Workouts to Manage Stress
If you’re feeling stressed, you’re not alone. Here is how tweaking your exercise schedule can help you manage those feelings.
The Importance of Practicing Gratitude
Feeling thankful for what you have can improve your life in so many ways. We’re sharing some tips for learning the art of practicing gratitude.
Health Benefits of Yoga
Next time you strike a pose and hold it, know that you’re improving your health in lots of ways.
Why Yooperlites Are a Pure Michigan Rock-Hunting Quest
Ready for a late-night adventure that will land you some rocks that glow in the dark? Then you’re ready to find Yooperlites.
Sensory Spaces for People with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
For people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, spaces that are too-bright or too-loud can be painfully overwhelming. Sensory-friendly activities can help.
Brain-Sharpening Exercises and Activities
Just like our bodies, our brains change as we age. But there are exercises and activities that can slow or even prevent some of that decline.
How Daylight Saving Time Can Affect Your Body
It might seem as simple as updating a few clocks in your home, but Daylight Saving Time can take a toll on some people’s overall health.
Best Ways to Make Your Diet Heart Healthy
Want to make some heart-healthy changes to your diet? It’s easier than you might think and it starts with some basic meal-planning tips.
Which Cooking Oils Are Best for Heart Health?
Grocery aisles are filled with choices. All oils are a type of fat, so they should be used sparingly compared to other ingredients in your diet. But there are some easy ways to tell which oils are better for your health.
How Sleep Syncing Can Give You a Better Night’s Rest
Have you heard of sleep syncing? This TikTok trend could lead you down a path toward better sleep. Here are the bullet points.
Michigan Bucket List: Ice Tree in Gaylord
Michigan is home to many winter marvels, including the “world’s largest ice tree” in Gaylord.
4 Reasons Valentine’s Day is Good for Your Heart
Chocolate, wine and a trip around the dance floor are hallmarks of Valentine’s Day. But they can also be good for your heart.
Is Peanut Butter Healthy?
Peanut butter lovers may be aware of some of the pros and cons associated with their rich, creamy snack of choice. Let's dive into those, as well as some of the lesser-known peanut butter health facts.
Michigan-Themed Valentine’s Day Ideas
How do you know you’re from The Mitten State? Maybe it’s because you know just how to celebrate Valentine’s Day with fun, friends - and a little bit of love.
How Dancing Can Help Your Heart Health
If having a heart-healthy lifestyle is on your goals list for this year, dancing can help.
Michigan Bucket List: Ice Fishing
During the winter, Michigan is known for its world-class ice fishing. Here are 10 lakes that are anglers’ favorites.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Cadillac
There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the winter.
Michigan Bucket List: Biggest Sledding Hills in Michigan
If you love sledding, you’re in the right place. Here’s our list of favorite sledding hills across Michigan.
Why Tanning Beds Don’t Help with Seasonal Depression
Thinking about popping into a tanning bed to ward off the winter blues? Not so fast.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Tawas City
There’s a lot to discover in this northeastern Michigan community during the winter.
Sledding Hill Safety Tips
The thrill of whooshing down a sledding hill is fun for all ages. But sledding comes with risks, too.
Michigan Bucket List: Great Lakes Ice Formations
The Great Lakes delivers some spectacular ice formations during the winters. Here’s what to look for.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Fenton
There’s a lot to discover in this Mid-Michigan community during the winter.
How Washing Your Face Can Help Your Brain
Cleansing your face each day has bigger benefits than just healthy-looking skin.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Munising
There’s a lot to discover in this Upper Peninsula community during the winter.
Exploring the Pros and Cons of Milk Alternatives
From soy to almond milks, let’s look at the pros and cons of milk alternatives when it comes to your health and the environment.
Get Outside in Nature This Winter: Why It’s Good for Your Mental Health
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you should stay cooped up inside. A little outside time can lead to big health benefits.
Decluttering for the New Year
Clutter doesn't always refer to physical items. If your house and your life feel a little messy, it’s time to declutter for the New Year. Here are some tips.
Whole Foods to Eat in the Winter
In the colder months especially, using whole foods to create nourishing and satisfying meals is one way to give ourselves a delicious health boost.
What is a Disney Rash?
What is a Disney Rash? It looks like a rash, but it’s really not.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Rochester
There’s a lot to discover in this Southeastern Michigan community during the winter.
Activities for Holiday Fun with Your Kids
Children make the holidays brighter. Make sure you set aside some special activities just for them, like the five ideas listed here.
Natural Home Cleaners You Can Make Yourself
Ready to make your own natural cleaners? We’ll show you how.
When to Take Down Your Christmas Tree
Do you love to let the holidays linger? When is the right time to take down your Christmas tree?
How to Start an Indoor Winter Garden
If your green thumb needs a new project, try starting an indoor winter garden.
3 Tips to Ease Travel Anxiety
If stress has become an uninvited guest on your vacations or work trips, you may have travel anxiety.
5 Things to Do This Winter in Spring Lake
There’s a lot to discover in this West Michigan community during the winter.
5 Things to Do This Winter in St. Ignace
There’s a lot to discover in this community in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula during the winter.
5 Meditations to Try
Ready to add a little more zen to your life? Try these 5 kinds of meditations.
Winter Break Activities in West Michigan
Step into a warm-water splash zone, join a museum mini camp, or skate away through a lighted forest trail. Winter Break activities are all about adventure.
Foods to Help Digestion and Bloating
The foods we eat, even our history with food, can impact our daily digestion.
What is a Mocktail?
Call it a mocktail, a virgin version or a non-alcoholic drink. They’re the hottest things on the beverage menu right now.
5 Things to Do in This Winter in Traverse City
There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the winter.
How to Raise the Humidity in Your Home
Cold weather means your furnace is kicking on, and drying out the air in your home.
What are Blue Zones?
Blue Zones are all the buzz when it comes to healthy living - and living longer.
Overcoming Post-Vacation Blues
If getting back from a trip gives you the blues, here’s how to overcome post-vacation depression.
5 Things to Do This Fall in Bay City
There’s a lot to discover in this Mid-Michigan community during the fall.
Michigan Bucket List: Christmas Markets
Christmas Markets add a sparkle to the holiday experience. Here is a list of some of the markets taking place across Michigan this season.
Benne Anderson to Lead GRPS Turkey Trot as Honorary Race Director
GRPS alum and running champion Benne Anderson will serve as this year’s honorary race director.
5 Things to Do This Fall in Rogers City
There’s a lot to discover in this community along Michigan’s sunrise coast during the fall.
Real vs. Artificial Trees: What’s Best for You?
It comes down to personal choice, but there’s a lot to consider when deciding between a real Christmas tree and an artificial one.
Michigan Bucket List: Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks
If you love ice skating, you’ll want to check out these outdoor ice skating rinks and enjoy this fun winter activity.
5 Things to Do This Fall in Three Oaks
There’s a lot to discover in this Southwest Michigan community during the fall.
10 Ways to Make Thanksgiving Side Dishes More Nutritious
It’s time to push aside the gravy boats and heavy sauces for healthier holiday options.
Foods to Avoid with a UTI
Can the foods you eat make urinary tract infections worse?
5 Things to Do This Fall in Houghton
There’s a lot to discover in this Upper Peninsula community during the fall.
Best and Worst Ways to Cook a Turkey
There are so many different ways to cook a turkey. Let’s look at some of the best - and worst - ways to get this big bird onto your holiday table.
What is the Importance of November 11?
What is the importance of Nov. 11, and what does it have to do with military service? Veterans Day, a federal holiday, is marked each year on Nov. 11. On that day, we honor and thank all those who are currently or have been a part of our United States Armed Forces.
Michigan Islands: What are some of the most popular?
We all know Michigan’s most famous island, but it’s just one of hundreds along Michigan’s coasts.
Tips for Decoding Egg Labels
Free-range. Cage-free. Organic. What do all these words on your egg cartons really mean?
5 Things to Do This Fall in Harbor Springs
There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the fall.
Triathlete with Cerebral Palsy Writes about “Impossible Mile”
Johnny Agar, who competes in triathlons with his dad, is the author of the bestseller, "The Impossible Mile: The Power in Living Life One Step at a Time."
High-Protein Meat Alternatives that Vegetarians Love
Worried about not getting enough protein as a vegetarian? There’s actually lots to choose from.
5 Things to Do This Fall in Northport
There’s a lot to discover in this Northern Michigan community during the fall.
Exercises for Joint Health
Want to keep moving well as you age? Remember to exercise your joints.
Safety Hacks for Pumpkin Carving
Knife-related hand injuries soar around Halloween for kids and teens. Here are some safety hacks for pumpkin carving.
How to Find Fresh Local Fish in Michigan
Ready to find your freshest locally-caught fish? We’ll show you how.
How to Survive Your First Month as a Vegetarian
Ready to go vegetarian? Here are some tips to make that first month easier.
5 Things to Do This Fall in Marquette
There’s a lot to discover in this Upper Peninsula community during the fall.
Are Eggs Vegetarian?
Leaning toward a vegetarian diet and want to know if you can include eggs? Read on for more details.
Michigan Bucket List: U-Pick Pumpkin Patches
Pumpkin patches are a fall treat in Michigan. Find a good one, then stay for a wagon ride, eat a donut and do a little pumpkin bowling.
5 Things to Do This Fall in Coldwater
There’s a lot to discover in this Southern Michigan community during the fall.
Health Benefits of Sourdough Bread
If you love a thick-cut slice of sourdough bread, you’ll like the health benefits that come with it.
5 Things to Do This Fall in Port Huron
Located along Michigan's Thumbcoast, Port Huron is a vibrant waterfront community.
Hidden Sources of Sugar in Your Breakfast
From popular coffee drinks to cups of low-fat yogurt, do you know where the extra sugar is hiding in your breakfast foods?
What Are the Health Benefits of Apples
Full of fiber and other perks, apples come with lots of health benefits.
No-Cook Tailgate Recipes to Make for Game Day
A delicious part of football season is the tradition of a tailgate spread on game day. We've got you covered with these recipes.
5 Things to Do This Fall in Whitefish Point / Paradise
There’s a lot of natural beauty to explore in the Upper Peninsula community of Whitefish Point / Paradise.
ArtPrize Artist Connects Art, Healing in Piece Made with Robot Vacuum
Amanda Koss is showing her paintings "Self" and "Dustbin Timberlake" at the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan office in downtown Grand Rapids during the annual art festival.
Top 10 Scents to Make Your House Smell Good Naturally
Think about the signature scent you would like to create – or even a different one for each room.
How to Make a Pumpkin Spice Latte
Here’s a step-by-step process for making your own version of the autumn classic at home.
5 Things to Do This Fall in Frankenmuth
This Mid-Michigan community is a popular destination for people who like to celebrate Bavarian traditions and Christmas year-round.
Simmer Pot Recipes for a Fresh-Smelling Home
Simmer pot recipes are an easy, affordable and natural way to have your home smelling good. Check out our recipes.
A Healthy Diet for People with Alzheimer’s
Can what you eat slow down age-related cognitive decline or early signs of Alzheimer’s?
5 Things to Do This Fall in Belleville
There’s a lot to discover in this lakeside community southwest of Detroit during the fall.
Michigan Bucket List: Apple Orchards to Explore This Fall
Nothing says fall in Michigan like filling a bushel basket full of freshly-picked apples. If you want to put a U-pick day on your list this autumn, we can help.
Know this Acronym to Help Prevent Suicide
Learn about WAIT, which offers simple suicide prevention advice.
Where to Find Adaptive Kayaking Launches
Adaptive kayak launches offer easy in and out designs for paddlers of all mobility levels. Here are some places to find them.
What is Millet?
Looking for a new high-fiber food to add to your diet? Jump on the millet bandwagon.
Why Pickleball is a Heart-Healthy Sport
Pickleball is a great sport for your heart health, no matter your age.
5 Things to Do This Summer in Three Rivers
From the arts and cultural events to recreational activities, there’s a lot to do in Three Rivers during the summer.
5 Insider Tips on How to Shop Smarter and Healthier at the Grocery Store
Registered dietician Shanthi Appelö shares five tips for how to shop smarter and healthier in the grocery store.
The Health Benefits of Grounding
Swim in a lake, walk in the grass or lay on the sand and you might get the benefits from grounding.
Insects: Are They the Protein of the Future?
Ready for some flash-fried crickets in a cup? How about a serving of steamed silkworms? Insects might be the protein of the future.
What’s the Best Diet for Workout Recovery?
Feeling a little tired or run-down after your last workout? Here’s what you should be eating afterward to speed your recovery.
5 Things to Do This Summer in Grayling
With its prime location on the AuSable River, there are a lot of things to do in Grayling during the summer.
Sun Protection Needs by Age
Should our sun safety practices change as we get older? Here are sun protection tips by age.