DID YOU KNOW that employees and spouses participating in CEG's medical plan can earn a Wellness Incentive? You can earn a premium discount and your spouse can earn a $250 deposit to your Health Savings Account (HSA) by meeting the Wellness Criteria (BMI <30 and Tobacco-Free) and/or the Reasonable Alternatives.

January Wellness Champion Congratulations to Jason Moore for being nominated this month’s Wellness Champion. Jason’s coworkers noticed his weight loss. When asked, Jason realized that his weight was unhealthy, and he decided he needed to change some of his lifestyle behaviors. Jason has lost 40 pounds with a lot of hard work and dedication. Way to go, Jason!! February Wellness Champion I’d like to nominate Laura O’Brien as this month’s Wellness Champion. Laura has been working hard to make changes to her diet and exercise habits that are sustainable and enjoyable. She is over ‘quick fixes’ and has been focused on Mindful Eating to gain a better relationship with food. None of this has been easy for Laura, but it isn’t for any of us. The hard part is what Laura is doing, keeping at it. Keep it up, Laura!

Of course, you knew we would say it...artichokes are a nutrient powerhouse! They are loaded with fiber, antioxidants and provide multiple vitamins such as K, B9 (folate) and C. They also contain a substance called cynarin, which helps boost kidney and liver functions. There are only 60 calories in a medium artichoke...which is why we all should be finding ways to include this nutrient all-star in our meals.

Yoga is for EVERY body. Yoga can make you stronger and more flexible. You do not have to be flexible to do yoga. It's a great way to stay limber and energetic. You'll also feel more focused and alert. And yoga can help you feel great and function better in your daily life. Here are a few options to get you started, both FREE and paid options.

Sitting too much can create tension in the neck, shoulders and hips. Take a break and try these exercises to 'undo the sitting position.'

Christa has joined the Verve Health Team as a Wellness Coordinator for Citizens Energy Group! Before joining the team, she was a Before and After School Program Director for the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis. She has held various positions at the YMCA including Wellness Coach. She was a Health Educator for the Vanderburgh County Health Department where she educated the community on anything from how to stop smoking to goal setting.

In this 4-minute virtual wellness class, you’ll learn what prediabetes is, if you’re at risk and what to do to reduce your risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Watch it .

Brussels sprouts are part of the cruciferous vegetable family along with broccoli and cauliflower. Vegetables in this family provide a wide variety of nutrients and contain few calories. People seeking a high nutrient diet should definitely include cruciferous vegetables in their diet.

Citizens is committed to improving the health of employees and their families. As part of this commitment, employees will continue to be eligible for a discounted Weight Watchers membership. However, due to IRS requirements, Citizens is required to report any company paid subsidy as imputed income.

We often hear that we should aim to get 10,000 steps per day. The reason? The goal of 10,000 steps adds up to about five miles each day for most people, which includes about 30 minutes of daily exercise—satisfying the CDC’s recommendation of at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.

Step Into the New Year Virtual Wellness Challenge is a 6-week virtual challenge that focuses on increasing your daily steps. The challenge starts on January 20 and runs through March 3, 2021.

Congratulations to Kris Lang for being nominated this month’s Wellness Champion. Kris struggled earlier in the pandemic with some extra pounds. She decided she needed to make a change. She signed up for Weight Watchers utilizing the savings available to Citizens' employees. She has found the online tools helpful and finds the accountability of logging food and weekly weigh-ins to be successful for her. Kris has already lost over 15 pounds. Way to go, Kris!

Despite the cold weather and dreary days in Indiana, it is also the season for sunny citrus - oranges, limes, lemons, grapefruit, clementine to name a few. And, not only delicious, but they are also packed with lots of good-for-you nutrients.

During the holidays, many tend to put on a few pounds. Act early this holiday season to avoid that holiday weight gain. Consider meeting with a Health Coach. Learn more HERE.

We often wish people a happy, healthy holiday season, but rarely give gifts that support the sentiment. As the new year approaches and resolutions are made the following gift ideas will help recipients maintain those promises of developing healthier lifestyle habits.

Pomegranates, like most fruit, are low in fat and calories, contain no saturated fat or cholesterol, and are naturally low in sodium. Pomegranates are also excellent sources of fiber, vitamin C and K, and loaded with disease-fighting antioxidants.

Buying seasonal produce is a great way to save on cost and improve your nutrient profile. Here is a list of some seasonal produce for December.

Do you know someone who has made a significant health or wellness achievement? Submit their name and why you think they should be nominated to Sara Pickett.