This story was contributed by our wellness columnist, Michelle Calarco.
As February comes to a close, we’ve rounded up some of the month’s most thought-provoking health stories for this installment of The Well, along with tips on how to “take a sip” of each.
- The Wall Street Journal: For Better Health During the Pandemic, Is Two Hours Outdoors the New 10,000 Steps?
Many of us know that time outdoors is good for you, but did you know that two hours is the sweet spot? According to a study published in Nature’s Scientific Reports, the 20,000 participants were significantly more likely to report good health and well-being when they spent 120 minutes or more in nature a week.
Take a Sip:
Get outside in Greenwich: Don’t let winter (or even a pandemic!) keep you from getting some fresh air, even if it’s just a quick jaunt outside.
Cos Cob Park offers a lovely walking trail that never feels crowded while nearby Mianus Park provides an escape into nature (just have patience with the parking!). Tod’s Point is more than just a summer destination—a winter walk by the beach can be very therapeutic and dogs are welcome as well. If you’re up for a drive, Ward Pound Ridge in Westchester County features great hiking (pro tip: check out Leatherman’s Loop and catch some of the best views from an overlook over the Cross River Reservoir). I also love to take my little one to the waterfall in Glenville for some extra excitement—he could spend hours throwing rocks there!
2. The New York Times: When Did Everyone Get Blue-Light Glasses?
While so-called “computer glasses” have become buzzy as we all spend more time on our screens, experts say they might not be necessary. Instead of blue-light glasses before bed, try putting your phone away for an hour or so before you head to sleep. (I know—easier said than done!)
Take a Sip:
Turn in your phone an hour before turndown: Moment is a great app that can help with this; you can schedule daily limits on each of your apps and when time is up, it will send you a notification as a friendly reminder that it’s time to unplug.
Photo Credit: @compassroam
3. Cleveland Clinic: Are There Any Health Benefits to Drinking a Gallon of Water a Day?
Many swear by drinking a gallon of water per day including celebrities like Beyonce, Karlie Kloss, Gabrielle Union and others. The Cleveland Clinic reports that this is not really necessary, although it won’t harm you either. Everyone has different hydration needs—but the standard number to aim for is around 64 ounces per day.
Besides just drinking water during the day, experts say there can be benefits to drinking a tall glass of it immediately after waking up, including hydrating and energizing, aiding digestion and clearing toxins. After winning his seventh Super Bowl title at the improbable age of 43 earlier this month, Tom Brady’s diet was all over the news, and turns out every day he starts the morning with a 20 ounce glass of water upon waking.
Take a Sip:
Drink water first thing: Keep a water bottle by your bedside to remind you to start the day with H20. We love this nontoxic glass bottle from Old Greenwich’s Back 40 Mercantile. It also comes with a purifier to take with you on the go.
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About Michelle Calarco: Michelle is a wellness and communications expert. After honing her storytelling craft in media and television, Michelle went on to elevate the profiles of premier brands across the hospitality, healthy living, and better-for-you food spaces. She has always been passionate about living and eating well and became even more immersed in health when she became a mom. On weekends you can find her squeezing in a barre class (during Paw Patrol) and baking healthyish desserts with her little one. Michelle has a consulting business and resides in Greenwich with her husband and 2-year-old son.
Have an idea for something you want to see in the column? Write to Michelle at [email protected] or follow her @michelle.calarco
