5 Surprisingly Fun Facts About Michigan

Posted on December 10, 2015May 25, 2016 by Summer

Did you know Michigan’s state flower is the Apple Blossom? Or that our state game mammal is the white-tailed deer?

From our picturesque Petoskey stones to the magnificent Mighty Mac, Michiganders take pride in the many things that make our state so unique. But aside from these well-known state symbols, the Great Lakes state has a few other distinctions you may not have known about.

Here are five surprisingly fun facts with tips from the Healthier Michigan team to help you explore more.

Michigan has more miles of freshwater shoreline than any other state in the nation. About 3,000 miles, to be exact. One of the most breathtaking views is along the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The area is open year-round, but you’ll want to check for possible road closures if you plan to visit during winter months.
- Watch our video of a Pictured Rocks sunset cruise here.
Michigan has the only authentic Dutch windmill operating in the United States. The De Zwaan Windmill in Holland, Mich. is not only a historic attraction, it’s also a functioning machine that produces healthy whole wheat flour for the local community and beyond.
- Check out this recipe for making your own healthy wheat bran muffins using stone ground flour.
Michigan is home to one of only four ice luge tracks in the nation. The Muskegon Winter Sports Complex offers visitors access to acres of ice, trails and woods for those brave enough to bare the cold temperatures.
- Read what one of our bloggers had to say about taking the plunge down the 850-foot icy track.
Michigan is home to one of 30 certified International Dark Sky Parks in the world. The Headlands in Mackinaw City was designated an official dark sky park in 2011. Visitors can explore 600 acres of old-growth forest and more than two miles of undeveloped Lake Michigan shoreline, all undiluted by light pollution.
- See breathtaking photos from a stargazer’s point of view in this blog where we explore the magic of Northern Michigan’s dark sky park.
Michigan is the second-most agriculturally diverse state in the nation. With our variety of seasons, rich farming regions and proximity to the Great Lakes, Michigan grows and distributes hundreds of different crops each year. We’re the top producer of tart cherries in the country, among other accolades.
- Check out #MIProduce on Instagram for healthy meals that look (and taste) better with local Michigan produce.

Next time you’re with friends and family, use these facts to help inspire others to be proud of our great state.

If you enjoyed this blog, be sure to subscribe to get A Healthier Michigan blog content delivered to your inbox.

Photo credit: nvenechuk

Sources: [1.] Michigan Department of Natural Resources. [2.] City of Holland, Windmill Island Gardens. [3.] Pure Michigan. [4.] International Dark Sky Association. [5.] USDA Farm Service Agency.

About the author: Angela Hernandez Loyd

My goals are to use diet and exercise to reduce the risk of potential health problems down the line, maximize energy and find greater happiness by living well.

This article was originally published on www.ahealthiermichigan.org, a website sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan. Blue Cross and MADA are your trusted partners in building a healthier business and workforce.

Physical Activity Tips for Fall

Posted on October 16, 2015May 25, 2016 by Summer

The arrival of fall brings cool Michigan temperatures, but don’t let the shift in the seasons get in the way of your physical activity!

It’s widely recommended that adults get at least 2 hours and 30 minutes (150 minutes) of moderate-intense physical activity each week, and perform muscle strengthening exercises 2 days each week.

Remember, physical activity is anything that gets your body moving. Research shows regular physical activity can reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other chronic conditions.

If you’re just getting started, break your activity up in to 10-minute intervals throughout the day. This could include taking a brisk walk on your lunch break or doing jumping jacks while watching television.

Whether you decide to be active outside or want to keep your exercise indoors, try these tips to move more and stay motivated this fall:

Dress for the weather. Wear supportive shoes with thick, flexible soles that will cushion your feet. Wear layers of clothing that will allow you to move, and keep you comfortable and warm.
Make it social. Try to schedule walking dates with family and friends, or organize a walking group with neighbors or coworkers. When you involve others in your activities, you are more likely to stick to your program.
Participate in fall activities. Go on a walk with your kids or grandchildren and find as many different colored leaves as you can. Cider mills and corn mazes are also great activities to add extra steps in to your day.
Chores count. Standard household chores like mowing the lawn, raking leaves, and vacuuming can help tone muscles you might not usually use. You can also turn up the music and dance while you’re cleaning house.
Take advantage of free community classes. Many community and recreational centers host free exercise classes, like the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan’s Enhance Fitness. Contact your local community or recreational center to learn what is offered in your neighborhood.
Purchase low-cost exercise props. You don’t need a gym membership to use exercise equipment. Free weights, jump ropes, medicine balls and resistance bands are inexpensive and can be purchased at stores like Meijer, Wal-Mart, Target and even some dollar stores.

Remember, being physically active is about what works best for you. Making lifestyle changes is never easy, but being active can bring big rewards towards a healthier life!

About the author: Mary Hiller is a communications coordinator for the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. She hopes to provide Michigan residents with resources that will help them live a healthy life. Mary enjoys doing yoga, trying new restaurants, and the (sunny) Michigan outdoors.

Explaining the private exchange

Posted on August 24, 2015May 25, 2016 by Summer

Employees have different health care needs, and deciding what’s affordable can be a hard decision.

To help answer your questions on how to reduce health care costs while providing your employees with the coverage they deserve, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is hosting two free seminars about private exchange solutions for small to mid-sized businesses.

To register or learn more about the seminars, please visit: bit.ly/PXSeminar

UPCOMING EVENTS

Date: August 25, 2015

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. ET

Location: Courtyard Grand Rapids Downtown

Date: September 17, 2015

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. ET

Location: MSU Management Education Center in Troy