This newsletter is brought to you in partnership with Erlanger.
Wellness
Fresh start: 9 (easy) ways to live healthier in 2024
Presented by a NOOGAtoday Partner
A healthy well-being means we have the support, tools, and optimal environments we need to build, sustain, and enjoy our lives to the fullest. | Photo via Pexels
Ah, the new year. Fresh with possibilities, January is a prime time to embrace optimism and to look for ways to better prioritize our health + well-being. A great place to start: See ”well-being” as the health of mind, body, and soul — and the foundation we rely on to help us reach goals, cope with life’s stressors, and meet our needs (and those around us).
Here to help you make this year your year are these nine simple ways to live healthier in Chattanooga in 2024, thanks to the help of local Erlanger physicians.
Make self-care a daily habit
A solid sense of well-being isn’t built in an afternoon. Integrating self-care into your everyday routine is key — and it’s worth making a priority.
Get your local fix: Dr. Steven Fox, a lifestyle medicine physician with Erlanger Family Medicine, leads Chattanooga’s “Walk with a Doc” program. Join him and other community members on the first Saturday of each month to get moving.
Spend more time outside
Twenty minutes outside each day can improve mood and increase vitamin D.
You don’t have to be diagnosed with a mental health issue to benefit from therapy. Many people in therapy seek help for everyday concerns, such as relationship problems or job stress.
Find an activity or hobby you enjoy
Research shows that people with purposeful activity are less likely to suffer from stress, low mood, and depression.
Get your local fix: Give the game of pickleball a try. Whether you want to join a local pickleball league or play a few friendly games, pickleball is great for moving your body, exercising your competitive spirit, and making friends.
Keep reading for expert recs on boundaries, setting realistic expectations, where to take fun classes + more.
Trail of Tears 7-Mile Run | Saturday, January 13 | 11 a.m. | Red Clay State Historic Park, 1140 Red Clay Park Rd. SW, Cleveland | $15-$30 | This 7-mile run is part of the oldest running park series in the US, hosted by the Tennessee Running Tour organization.
Walk with a Doc | Saturday, February 3 | 9-10 a.m. | Hope for the Inner City, 1800 Roanoke Ave. | Free | This monthly walking program is a great way to take steps toward a healthier lifestyle + get answers to your health questions from local physicians.
Drink
Dry January: Mocktails 101 Class | Thursday, January 11 | 6-7:30 p.m. | The Chattery, 1800 Rossville Ave., Suite 108 | $35 | Learn how to use fresh fruit, teas, and syrups to make flavorful mocktail creations in celebration of Dry January.
Outdoors
Rapid Learning: Intro to Whitewater Kayaking | Tuesday, January 16 | 7-9 p.m. | Southern Adventist University Hulsey Wellness Center, 4870 University Dr., Collegedale | Free | Learn safe paddling techniques + essential skills to comfortably kayak (and roll) in whitewater, led by instructors from Outdoor Chattanooga.
Indoor Archery Walk-In Class for Adults | Tuesday, January 23 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Philip Grymes Outdoor Chattanooga Center, 200 River St. | Free | Stop in for a hands-on opportunity to learn the sport of archery with Outdoor Chattanooga ( no experience or reservation required).
Wellness
Full Moon Kundalini Meditation and Gong Bath | Thursday, January 25 | 8-9 p.m. | Yoga Landing Downtown, 2414 Sidney St. | $33 | Set an intention and relax your mind at this guided meditation session followed by a gong sound bath.
An estimated 1 in 133 Americans has celiac disease — an autoimmune disorder that’s triggered by eating foods containing gluten. Although symptoms are similar to general gluten intolerance, there are key differences between celiac disease + gluten intolerance. Bonus: See Nooga’s top gluten-free-friendly restaurants.
Wellness
If movement and mental health are at the top of your New Year’s resolutions list, this is for you. We’ve rounded up 14 local yoga studios to get your fix of exercise, breathwork, and zen.
ICYMI: Crabtree Farms is getting a refresh. The sustainable urban farm recently announced its new strategic plan, which includes expansions and planning that will support the farm’s efforts of promoting urban farm-based education and sustainable agriculture. See what’s coming.
Cause
Did you know January is National Blood Donor Month? Donating blood is a safe and simple process, and it can have a lifesaving impact. See where to donate + how to host your own blood drive in the Scenic City.
Health
Here’s a healthy eating hack: Eat the rainbow. Adding a variety of colorful fruits and veggies into your diet will not only liven up your plate, but also give your body the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants it needs.