The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is reminding us that August is not just about those last summer getaways—it's also National Wellness Month. As temperatures climb, so does the attention on our health and well-being. The state's health commission has put a spotlight on an array of programs designed to boost Texans' wellness game.
For those looking to not just survive but thrive, HHSC's Good Food, Good Move might just be the ticket. It's packed with pointers on how to quickly throw together budget-friendly meals and seamlessly slip exercise into our jam-packed schedules. The program's goal is simple: show how small changes can have a massive impact on family health. We all know starting fresh habits can be a slog, but with resources like a searchable list of healthy recipes, it's about to get a whole lot easier to make that change.
And because fitness doesn't have an expiration date, HHSC's Exercise program zeroes in on adults aged 45 and up, with free resources and programs to get them moving and eating well. Those interested can hop online to scoop up a free Texercise handbook or download materials that include a stress management fact sheet—just use the Aging Well Resources Order Form and click on Texercise.
However, it's not just about the physical. The CDC is on board with HHSC's assertion that regular social engagement is crucial. Being part of a community can be a game-changer in mitigating loneliness and trimming down stress levels. To support this, HHSC's Age Well Live Well initiative dishes out tools and resources to keep Texans intertwined. One such resource, Know Your Neighbor, boldly encourages residents to get to know their older neighbors, aiming to cut down on the risks associated with isolation. Obtaining these resources is a breeze—use the same Aging Well Resources Order Form but this time, lay your finger on “Social Engagement”.
HHSC's push during National Wellness Month may be a timely reminder that wellness is multi-faceted, encompassing not just bodies but also bonds. With actionable advice and free resources just a click away, Texans have a head start on adopting a healthier lifestyle. It's wellness within arm's reach, without a hefty price tag or Herculean effort.
