Spring into a Healthier Lifestyle
Spring is a unique time of year for South Carolina because of the many fun activities you can do with your friends and family. The warm weather draws us outside more to enjoy the beauty of our state. This is a great time to refresh your health goals and get back to those New Year’s resolutions you made in January. Try these simple activities this season to work toward a healthier lifestyle. Some safer socially distant activities are included as well.
Try a South Carolina Historic Tour or Hike
When was the last time you had a refresher on South Carolina history? Take a road trip to one of South Carolina’s historic walking tours. Walking tours are an engaging way to stay active for people of all ages. South Carolina also offers scenic hiking routes in the upstate for those looking for a more challenging experience. Outdoor activities are considered safer than indoor activities according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
Add an Evening Walk to Your Routine
Now that the sun sets later, you have more time to get out of the house before it gets too dark. Add an evening walk to your routine after dinner. Walking is an easy exercise that does not feel too strenuous. Take a walk with your family and use this time to unwind from the day and reconnect.
Visit a Farmer’s Market
Shopping local farmer’s markets is a great way to get fresh healthy foods while also supporting your community. South Carolina has over 100 farmer’s markets across the state. You are sure to find one near your community. During the spring, look out for greens, cabbage, radishes, and strawberries while they are in season. You can find a list of South Carolina Farmer’s Markets HERE.
Start Your Own Garden
Gardening can be a fun healthier lifestyle activity for the entire family. Plant a small container garden or herb garden. You can spend a little more time outside and teach your children about fruits and vegetables. Tomatoes are a great item to start with if you are a beginner gardener. Basil is an easy herb to grow in a small container on your windowsill. How satisfying would it be to eat a meal with food from your own family garden?
Focus on Your Sleep Pattern
Whether you are a morning bird or night owl, we all need sleep. The new season brings the start of daylight savings time. With the sun setting later in the evening, we may be tempted to stay up longer than normal. Sleep is essential for everyone’s health and wellness, yet many people do not get enough sleep regularly. Eight hours is the recommended amount of sleep for an adult. Try setting an alarm on your phone to remind yourself when it is time for bed until it becomes a habit.
Take Your Regular Activities Outside
Have you ever experienced an instant mood lift when you stepped outside on a sunny day? Sun exposure is linked to positive mental health outcomes. Plan time this spring to include more outdoor activities in your routine. Try eating a meal outside in your backyard. You can also read a book or help your kids with homework outside.
Apply for Healthcare Benefits
Take steps towards your healthier lifestyle by applying for healthcare benefits with SC Thrive. You can apply for benefits programs like Medicaid from the comfort of your own home, over the phone.
Medicaid is a health insurance program that helps you cover the cost of medical bills. Families or individuals with low-income are eligible to apply. People of all ages participate in this health coverage program. Additionally, Medicaid covers the COVID-19 vaccine and testing. Beneficiaries should bring their Medicaid information to any COVID-19 related appointments to apply the coverage.
Before you apply, you will need to know the following for everyone in your household:
- Date of birth
- Social Security number
- Income from jobs or training
- Benefits received now (or received in the past), such as Social Security, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Veteran’s benefits or child support
- Amount of money in your checking account, savings accounts or other resources you own
- Monthly rent, mortgage payment and utility bills
- Payments for adult or child health coverage and/or medical benefits you currently have
For more information on how you can apply for Medicaid with SC Thrive click HERE.