August is National Wellness Month, an annual commemoration that encourages the public to reflect on their personal wellness and take proactive steps toward a more balanced, healthy lifestyle. Midwest Express Clinic is dedicated to providing accessible, comprehensive preventive care that supports your overall physical health and promotes emotional well-being. Read on to learn how you can enhance your health through diet and lifestyle changes, and find out how routine wellness exams play a vital role in maintaining well-being.
Reframe how you view your overall wellness
Wellness isn’t just the absence of illness. It’s about establishing a lifestyle that supports long-term health, stability and fulfillment. From eating a balanced diet and staying active to keeping stress levels in check and getting regular wellness checkups, every seemingly small lifestyle choice contributes to the bigger picture of well-being.
Midwest Express Clinic’s general wellness exams are designed to help you get an in-depth understanding of your current health status and flag any potential health issues before they become more severe. These exams are a cornerstone of Midwest Express Clinic’s approach to preventive care, as your provider can use the data gathered in the wellness exam to offer personalized guidance on how to improve your overall health.
Supporting physical health through routine wellness exams
Your physical health sets the tone for how you feel and function each day. A routine wellness exam at Midwest Express Clinic includes:
- A detailed discussion of personal and family medical history, as well as a review of your immunization record to ensure you are up to date on all required vaccinations.
- Evaluation of vitals such as heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature and breathing.
- Assessment of major body systems and organs including the heart, lungs and stomach. Providers will also discuss vision and hearing screenings in case a referral is needed.
- On-site lab testing for cholesterol, glucose, thyroid and other key indicators of chronic disease.
- Personalized recommendations for diet, fitness and chronic disease prevention.
These routine wellness exams play a critical role in preventing and managing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, the exam gives you an opportunity to consult with your provider about any new symptoms or concerns you may have.
Lifestyle tips for enhancing your overall well-being
Improving your health doesn’t happen overnight. By taking small, sustainable steps such as the ones outlined below, you can achieve a more balanced overall well-being that lays the foundation for a healthier future.
- Stay active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity five days a week.
- Eat a balanced diet: Prioritize nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats that nourish your body and stabilize energy throughout the day.
- Maintain a healthy sleep regimen: Sleep plays an essential role in maintaining your cognitive function, emotional regulation and physical health. Adults 18 to 64 years old should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night, while adults over 65 years old should aim for between seven and eight hours each night.
- Keep stress levels in check: Practice deep breathing, meditation or screen-free time to reset.
- Take note of your mental and emotional well-being: Set aside time each week to reflect on your current mental and emotional state, and seek professional help when needed.
Take the first step toward a healthier future this National Wellness Month
Wellness is a journey that starts with awareness and intention. This National Wellness Month, prioritize your overall well-being by getting an annual wellness exam at Midwest Express Clinic. With convenient locations throughout the Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland regions open daily, Midwest Express Clinic offers convenient, comprehensive care that fits your schedule. To find urgent care near you, visit midwestexpressclinic.com/locations.
