Keevin R. Davis, M.D. and Denise Davis, M.D. This is the year that everyone has to be more willing to take responsibility for the health and wellbeing of themselves and their family. The rate of chronic diseases are increasing, and obesity in adults and children are off the charts!

Insurance costs are rising and the number of uninsured is skyrocketing. It is more important now that all Americans do everything they can to prevent or minimize illness. With that in mind, here are 10 health and wellness trends for 2012. 1. Gym Memberships: more people join the gym in January than at any other time. The secret is to stick with it for 12 months. It is OK to take baby steps in your workout routine but be consistent. The latest CDC recommendation is one hour of exercise every day. 2. Gardening: This is a great year to start a garden and engage in other outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming. The fresh air is good for your sense of well being and the sunshine will raise your Vitamin D levels. 3. Sprouting, fermenting, and canning: Sprouting makes for nutritionally dense foods that your body craves. Fermenting as well as canning are great ways to preserve the fresh food from your garden. 4. Yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates: In addition to cardio and weights, these three forms of exercise bring healing to your body and are lower impact and can be done by both the young and the elderly. Mixing up your routine prevents boredom. 5. Locally grown/sourced: Locally grown produce is fresh, often natural and sometimes organic. This is a growing movement and supports the local economy as well. Check online or in your local paper for the locations of farmer’s markets. 6. Mind, Body, and Spirit: A lot of people work on their body without realizing the connection between the other two. It is important to develop the mind with positive reading, learning new subjects, and taking on new tasks. Spiritual training is equally important through prayer and meditation and an awareness of a higher power. The benefits include an increase in self-esteem. 7. Social media and technology: Just about everyone has a smart phone and can download health and wellness apps to help reach your fitness goals. There are many social media sites to provide support, encouragement, and current information on wellness as well. 8. Community Groups: Group exercising and wellness awareness programs can be found through churches, fraternal and social organizations, work, and community organizations. For those that like to work out with others, this is perfect. 9. Workplace and Insurance Company Wellness Programs: Corporations and insurance companies have health and wellness programs and give participants rewards for participating. These benefits can be lowered premiums, employer recognition, and increased work place productivity. 10. Health and Wellness Travel: Many people are signing up for health programs in distant places that include hotel, healthy dining, workouts, and spa treatments in a package and a special price. This is a fun and healthy way to get away and take a break from the everyday routine. Others are attending “Get Healthy” boot camps for more.

The year 2012 is a great year to indulge in some or all of these activities to improve your quality of life. As usual, don’t forget to get a good laugh in everyday, also. Yours in good health, Until next time. Denise Davis, M.D. Keevin R. Davis, M.D. Co- Host of “ Doctors in the Kitchen” www.doctorsinthkitchen. com