MI Big Show

MI Big Show

Stopping the “Summer Slide”

Kids lose up to two months of education in the summer months. Use these tricks to keep them sharp all summer long.

Image of a little boy reading a book in a tent
MI Big Show

Men's Health Month: Men Have Body Image Issues Too

Men worry about their appearance more than you think. Learn how to improve body image and get rid of negative thoughts once and for all.

An Overweight man at a gym
MI Big Show

Finding Relief: Who to Talk to When Allergies Strike

Learn how to spot the telltale signs of a new allergy’s development and where to go to receive qualified care and advice.

A young adult man going for a walk outdoors stops to apply eyedrops.
MI Big Show

Small Daily Food Swaps Can Net Huge Results

Swapping out your morning caffeine source and afternoon snack for healthier options are two of the many tweaks you can make to your diet.

Blue Cross Healthy Michigan Spaghetti Squash
MI Big Show

5 Simple Ways to Keep Your Preschooler Healthy

Keeping your preschooler healthy can be difficult. Check out these simple reminders to help strengthen their immune system and teach healthy habits.

Preschoolers interacting in class
MI Big Show

Stay Safe Michigan! How to Drive on Winter Roads

Preparing and knowing how to handle an emergency are two of the most important things you can do before getting behind the wheel in the winter.

how to drive in winter weather
MI Big Show

Hygge: The Simple Philosophy That Will Make You Love Winter

Why do Danish people tend to rank higher in happiness? It just might have to do with hygge, their philosophy that’s all about coziness and self-care.

hygge philosophy
MI Big Show

The Upper Peninsula’s Eben Ice Caves: Winter Hiking 101

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is full of surprises, including winter ice caves. Get helpful tips on how to hike properly in the winter.

The UP Eben Ice Caves.
MI Big Show

5 Things to Do Every Day to Keep Your Memory Sharp

Keep your memory sharp as you get older by incorporating these simple habits into your everyday life.

tricks to keep memory sharp
MI Big Show

The Story Behind a Festive Michigan Favorite: Paczki Day

Knowing the history of Michigan’s beloved Paczki Day will make this year’s celebration even sweeter.

Gourmet Homemade Polish Paczki Donuts with Jelly Filling
MI Big Show

Celebrate MLK Jr. Day Virtually this Year

Ways to honor and celebrate the memory of Martin Luther King, Jr. around the state.

Woman watching webinar at home
MI Big Show

Fit Like Fido: 5 Healthy Habits You Can Learn From Your Dog

Your dog might slobber and snore, but it also lives a pretty healthy life. Here’s how to find inspiration from your pup to live your healthiest life.

Friends walking dog on the beach
MI Big Show

Foolproof Ways to Work Out in the Morning

Research shows working out in the morning reinforces a healthy schedule. Read up on tricks that fitness buffs swear by to get you out of bed and into the gym.

Young woman getting ready for morning run
MI Big Show

5 Steps to Boost Your Child’s Confidence

By encouraging independence at a young age, you’ll shape your child’s personality and confidence. These 5 tips can help your child become more independent.

Mother Helping Son With Homework Sitting At Desk In Bedroom
MI Big Show

Ride On: Biking and Cycling Tips as You Age

Cycling is growing in popularity among older adults, but biking-related accidents are also on the rise. Here’s how to stay safe on two wheels.

Mature African American couple riding bikes in park
MI Big Show

Making Sure Back-to-School Lunches Keep Their Cool

Packing your kid’s lunch for school is a way to save money and keep lunch healthy. These safety tips will make sure the food stays good until lunchtime.

Closeup view of mother putting lunch box into her son's backpack
MI Big Show

Staying Positive in the Face of Negative Headlines

Overwhelming news stories and stats can quickly put us in a funk. Finding joy in the everyday can help.

Worried African American woman using cell phone while working at home.
MI Big Show

Is Slowing Down the Secret to a Good Workout?

Find out why this low-intensity workout approach is perfect for both beginners and experienced fitness aficionados.

woman doing at-home workout, low intensity
MI Big Show

Target All Five Senses to Feel Super Creative at Work

A few tweaks to your workspace can make 9-to-5 your most creative and productive time of the day.

Workdesk with decoration and copy space
MI Big Show

Three Places To View Michigan’s Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are tricky to plan for and often unpredictable. Here are some tips and a few of the best places to view them in Michigan.

Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis
MI Big Show

How Yoga Breathing Can Reduce Your Stress Level

Stress is usually part of your daily routine. However, incorporating yoga and different types of breathing into your daily routine can help lower your stress.

A multi-ethnic group of young adults are taking a yoga class together at the gym. They are meditating with their eyes closed and focusing on their breathing.
MI Big Show

Grow Your Garden Without Aches and Pains

Spending time in a garden is good for your physical and mental health–you just have to be careful you don’t overdo it.

Senior African American Couple Planting in Garden
MI Big Show

4 Bike Safety Tips to Keep Kids Safe

Follow these four simple tips to keep your little ones safe this bike riding season.

dad teaching daughter how to ride a bike
MI Big Show

What You Can Do Now to Prepare for Spring Allergies

Why wait until you’re miserable to fight allergies? Simple steps taken in advance can make a world of difference.

Woman sneezing into a tissue
MI Big Show

Your Voice, Your Choice: Why Voting is Good for Your Health

Beyond the mere satisfaction you may receive from helping select the next president, voting also has some surprising health benefits.

Woman voting in gymnasium
MI Big Show

High-Tech Ways to Keep Your Heart Healthy

Check out these apps that will help you keep track of your heart health.

Man finishing up a workout and looking at his phone
MI Big Show

The Best Exercises for Your Heart

It seems easy to “stay active” for your heart health, but what does that really mean? We break down some exercises that can keep your heart healthy.

best exercises for your heart
MI Big Show

Do You Make These Mistakes When Setting Goals?

Coming up with a goal is one thing, sticking to it is something else. Here are the top mistakes people make with their resolutions so you know to avoid them.

Man writing in food journal
MI Big Show

The Breast Cancer Few People Talk About

When you hear about a breast cancer diagnosis, it’s natural to assume it’s a woman who is dealing with the news. But breast cancer can also happen to men.

male breast cancer
MI Big Show

Why Safe Routes to Schools Matter

In this guest post from Ty Schmidt, executive director of Traverse City-based non-profit organization Norte, learn why walkable communities are good for health.

Image of two schoolgirls walking home from school.
MI Big Show

10 Festivals that Celebrate Michigan Food

Unleash your inner foodie at these ten festivals across the state celebrating unique Michigan agricultural crops and products.

food festivals in Michigan
MI Big Show

Mushroom Time: Your Michigan Morel Hunting Guide

With warmer temperatures, searching for the tasty fungi is a great way to get outdoors and take in a beautiful spring day.

Hunting for morels in Michigan
MI Big Show

Why Everyone Needs a Creative Outlet

There's a connection between creative pursuits and your mental and physical health. Find out why you should take up a creative hobby today.

Portrait of female potter painting bowl in pottery workshop
MI Big Show

52 Little Habits That Will Help You Create an Amazing 2019

The new year is a great time to renew your commitment to a healthy mind, body and spirit. Here are little tweaks to do just that.

Woman walking up the stairs.
MI Big Show

How to Eat a Pomegranate (and Why You Should)

Uncertainty over how to actually eat pomegranates makes many people afraid to buy them. Let this be your guide.

Open pomegranate wtih seeds spilling on table.
MI Big Show

Apps and Food Storage Tips to Organize Your Fridge

Staying on top of fridge organization and meal prepping can sometimes fall to the bottom of your to-do list. Here are some kitchen hacks to make life easier.

Image of leftovers stacked messily in the fridge.
MI Big Show

Riding a Trend: Tips for Using Electric Scooters

With electric scooters popping up in cities across the country, including Detroit, we decided to scoot out of the office on a lunch break to give them a try.

Electronic Scooters
MI Big Show

When “Boo!” Becomes “Boo-Hoo”

Before you take your kids to the haunted house or watch a scary movie together, make sure they're emotionally equipped to handle it.

Shocked dad covering his son's eyes while watching a movie.
MI Big Show

Michigan November Bucket List: 10 Ways to Embrace the Season

Embrace the fall season by trying some of these fun Michigan activities for November!

Fall colors on a road in Michigan.
MI Big Show

New College Grads: Prepare for Retirement Today

Going through your college years and saving money can be hard, but here's why it is so important for your future.

Young woman pays for restaurant bill with credit card.
MI Big Show

Halloween Costumes: Dress Up For Spooky-Yet-Safe Fun

Make this Halloween a spooky yet safe experience for your children and their costumes

a woman in a black dress holding a mask giving candy to a girl in a pink dress.
MI Big Show

Healthy & Fun Ways to Support Breast Cancer Awareness in Michigan

October has become synonymous with breast cancer awareness, and all month long you can find events to support the cause happening all around the Mitten State.

breast cancer awareness events
MI Big Show

Is Fear of Failure Making You Procrastinate?

What really causes people to procrastinate? It might be a fear of failure or anxiety. Read on for tips to cope.

Image of a young woman bored at her desk
MI Big Show

Unplug to Recharge

The overuse of smart devices could have a negative impact on both mental and physical health.

iphone on table
MI Big Show

Michigan’s Most Dangerous Plants: Q&A with a DNR Expert

Spending your time outside and in nature can have a great impact on your mental and physical wellbeing. To stay safe while exploring, understand what types of dangerous plants and insects to keep an eye out for.

hogweed
MI Big Show

Moon Milk: The Bedtime Drink to Help You Fall Asleep

Cozy up with a glass of warm Moon Milk to help you with insomnia and sleeplessness.

Moon Milk: The Bedtime Drink to Help You Fall Asleep
MI Big Show

Moonlight Yoga Returns to the Detroit Riverfront

Check out this unique yoga experience along the Detroit Riverfront!

MI Big Show

Honey Roasted Cherries and Cheese Toast

Michigan is the leading producer of tart cherries in the United States. Support your fellow Michiganders and use cherries for this delicious breakfast or snack!

Honey Roasted Cherry & Cheese Toast
MI Big Show

Across the Straits: The Iconic Mackinac Bridge

The Mighty Mac turns 60 in 2017. Find out what it took to cross the Straits of Mackinac before the bridge’s opening in 1957.

mackinac bridge
MI Big Show

How Multiple Concussions Have Permanently Changed my Life

When we start to take brain injury seriously, we can prevent the everlasting impact my injuries have left me with for the rest of my life.

Cheerleaders near track at a football game
MI Big Show

Red, White and Blue Fruit and Cheese Appetizer

Going to a Fourth of July party and don't know what to bring? These simple appetizers are perfect for when you're rushing out the door.

red, white and blue fruit and cheese app
MI Big Show

The Rise of Mosquito-Borne Illnesses in the United States

In the U.S., mosquito-borne illnesses are on the rise and are not showing signs of letting up. Use this guide to help protect your family against these diseases.

Mosquito-Borne Illnesses
MI Big Show

New Floating Playgrounds for Your Next Family Day Trip

Three state parks have taken the term “playground” to a new level … sea level! Learn how these destinations will ensure fun for all ages this summer.

Children play at the Water Warrior Island aquatic park
MI Big Show

Tales from the Trail: Favorite Michigan Hikes

There is something about “unplugging” from busy day-to-day lives and then recharging in the Michigan backcountry.

Best hikes in Michigan
MI Big Show

Getting Past the Post-Grad Blues

Post-graduation can be the most stressful time of your career, but here are some excellent tips to stay on track.

Graduation Picture
MI Big Show

Fitness Trackers for Children: A Good or Bad Idea?

Fans of fitness trackers may be interested in getting one for everyone in the family. Here’s what you need to know before you buy.

Kids, Fitness, Wearables, Technology, Health, Sleep, Exercise, Parents
MI Big Show

Training in Michigan Helped Desiree Linden Win Boston

Desiree Linden said training through part of a nasty Michigan winter helped her tackle brutal conditions on race day to win the 2018 Boston Marathon. “This is a great running state. People get running here,” she said.

Photo of Desiree Linden holding up the American flag after winning the 2018 Boston Marathon.
MI Big Show

A Day in the Life: Are You as Fit as Your Mail Carrier?

In all kinds of weather, postal carriers need to be physically fit to perform their job duties. Find out how one Grand Rapids carrier does it.

Photo of a U.S. Postal Service mailbox.
MI Big Show

3 Ways to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo Across Michigan

Understand the history behind one of our country’s most popular celebrations, and add one of these events to your holiday calendar.

Mexico flag
MI Big Show

Ways To Spring Clean Your Morning Routine

Refresh your morning routine with these tips that will set you up to seize the day!

Wake up and feel refreshed with these easy changes to your morning routine!
MI Big Show

Holland Tulip Time Festival to Feature Yoga in the Tulips

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is proud to partner with Tulip Time to bring the community a series of special yoga events this May.

purple and pink tulips in bloom
MI Big Show

Michigan April Bucket List: 10 Ways to Refresh and Explore  

Make April amazing with these fun ideas to refresh your space, explore your state, and nourish yourself with healthy foods and good-for-you moves.

A white tropical flower
MI Big Show

Baseball is Back! Where to Find Healthy Food in Comerica Park

The Detroit Tigers stadium is full of surprisingly healthy fare–you just have to know where to look.

MI Big Show

Traveling Across Time Zones? How To Fight Jet Lag

Avoid jet leg to enjoy your vacation starting with your flight!

MI Big Show

Butterflies are Blooming at GR’s Meijer Gardens

Find out how the more than 7,000 tropical butterflies that call Frederik Meijer Gardens home in March and April make the journey to West Michigan.

Image of a butterfly on a wall.
MI Big Show

Tips for Beating the Afternoon Slump—No Caffeine Required

Coffee isn’t the only way to get the pick-me-up you need to get you through the day.

MI Big Show

The Truth Behind Brain Games: Do They Really Work?

There is a growing market for games that supposedly improve your brain’s function. But before you buy one, there are some things you should know.

Brain games
MI Big Show

Michigan March Bucket List: 10 Ideas to Usher in a New Season

Hello, March! This month, welcome spring by greening up your home and yard, planning a close-to-home vacation, taking a hike and more.

A spring robin perched on a tree branch.
MI Big Show

5 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Long Runs

Training for a longer-distance race? A veteran coach shares his tips to make your weekly long runs count.

MI Big Show

Team Up With Your Partner for a Heart-Healthy Valentine’s Day

Wellness may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Valentine’s Day, but it’s a great day to prioritize your heart health.

MI Big Show

Make a Splash at Michigan’s Indoor Water Parks

Michigan is beautiful, but beach season is short. If you’re craving warmth and water, you’re only a road trip away from one of these indoor water parks.

Two kids coming down a water slide
MI Big Show

Tired of Tacos? Remix Your Family Favorite With These Recipes

Make the most of your taco night with these different taco inspired recipes.

taco salad
MI Big Show

Easy Ways to Keep the Air in Your Home Clean

Cleaning the air you breathe is a top wellness trend of 2018. Here’s how to start keeping your air clean today.

MI Big Show

Feeling Sad the Holidays Are Over? Try These Awesome Michigan Activities

These five winter-only activities will get you out of the house and having fun.

MI Big Show

Love Researching Symptoms Online? Avoid Self-Diagnosing Into the ER

Self-diagnosis is unavoidable thanks to all of the online sources available for symptoms. Here’s when to go to the ER and when to get help somewhere else.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Symptoms Research Self-Diagnosis Emergency Room WebMD
MI Big Show

Want to Sleep Better? 6 Daytime Dos and Don’ts

These quick and easy fixes will have you sleeping better at night and leave you feeling energized during the day.

MI Big Show

Lansing Overpass Gets New Life as #Penn4People Mural

Lansing community members proudly painted a new mural, #Penn4People, in partnership with Lansing Economic Area Partnership.

Volunteers paint a freeway overpass
MI Big Show

Do You Really Know the Germiest Spots in Your House?

Prepare to get grossed out. Here are the spots in your home that hold on to the most germs.

MI Big Show

Beyond the Pumpkin Patch: Fall and Halloween Activities to Explore Across Michigan

Michigan offers many unique excursions during the fall and Halloween season. Try one of these suggestions!

night time scene with string lights and a red arrow with a sign attached to it.
MI Big Show

6 Ways to Stay Healthy While Traveling

These six tips can help keep you and your family healthy while on vacation.

MI Big Show

College Students: Get to Know Your Health Plan

Many Millennials don’t understand how health insurance works, where to apply or what’s available to them. Become educated on how to obtain and receive care.

Two college-aged girls studying a stack of books.
MI Big Show

Mexican Stuffed Bell Peppers

This recipe is great for an easy dinner or leftover lunch. Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and pop the peppers in the oven after a busy day.

Bell peppers with cheese and stuffing.
MI Big Show

Annoying Co-Workers? Tips to Help You Cope

Sometimes you can’t get along with everyone, but there are ways to deal with pesky co-workers.

MI Big Show

Back to School: 7 Steps to a Better Bedtime Routine

Summer is coming to an end, which means it’s time to get serious about bedtime. Here’s how to make the transition smooth for everyone.

How to transition to back to school time
MI Big Show

3 Points to Consider When Choosing the Right Therapist for You

Advice from a therapist on choosing the right therapist.

A girl outside who is giving a big smile
MI Big Show

New Suites, Renovations Greet Guests for Grand Hotel’s 130th Season

Staying at the Grand Hotel this summer? You’ll notice updated and refreshed spaces that welcome guests to the storied hotel’s 130th season.

white rocking chairs on a sea foam green deck
MI Big Show

The Risks and Rewards of Marathons: Read Before You Start Training

Running a marathon isn’t easy. Here’s how to stay injury-free every time you lace up your tennis shoes.

people running in a marathon
MI Big Show

A Healthier Twist on a Restaurant Favorite: Mexican Pizza with Cauliflower Crust

One cheese pizza slice contains about 175 calories, and 30 grams of carbs. Try this healthier twist on traditional restaurant pizza.

mexican pizza with cauliflower crust
MI Big Show

#MIKidsCan Champion of the Month: Caleb Neubecker

Meet the Blue Cross Blue Shield #MIKidsCan Champion of the month, Caleb Neubecker of Mount Pleasant, Michigan.

Caleb Neubecker
MI Big Show

Are You a Picky Eater? Here’s How to Learn to Love New Food

It’s easier than you think to expand your palate and start trying and liking new healthy foods. Here’s how to do it.

stop being a picky eater
MI Big Show

Why Hiking to Marquette’s Black Rocks is Worth It

Every season is the right season to explore the Black Rocks at Marquette’s Presque Isle Park.

hiking to black rocks
MI Big Show

Trendy Health Buzzwords: What Do They Really Mean?

Don’t get confused by all the healthy eating buzzwords floating around—this cheat sheet breaks them all down for you.

Trendy Health Buzzwords Detox Cleanse All-Natural
MI Big Show

Nine Ways to Cut Your Grocery Bill in Half

Staying on budget when grocery shopping is no easy task. Keep these nine tips in mind next time you’re walking through the aisles.

grocery shopping
MI Big Show

The Dilemma Posed by E-Cigarettes

New research about e-cigarettes might surprise you. Blue Care Network senior medical director Dr. Duane DiFranco helps break down the results of a new study.

a closeup of a mans mouth as he exhales smoke.
MI Big Show

Why Exercise is Still Important for Weight Loss

You can’t outrun a bad diet, so the saying goes. However, healthy weight loss should definitely still include exercise.

why exercise is important for weight loss
MI Big Show

Prepare Your Kids for Success in Sports

With a little preparation, you can make sure your kids fall in love with sports and feel good about themselves.

preparing your kids for success in sports
MI Big Show

Idea We Love: Doctors Prescribing Parks

Read about why park prescriptions could be coming to a doctor’s office near you.

Prescribing park time
MI Big Show

#MIKidsCan: Teach Your Kids to Deal with Criticism

As a parent, it’s important to teach your kids how to deal with criticism–both negative and positive. Here’s how to do just that.

how to help kids deal with criticism
MI Big Show

Why Your Doctor Might Ask About Your Mood At Your Next Visit

Untreated depression not only can decrease quality of life, but can also affect the well-being of friends and family. Learn more about how your doctor can help.

why your mood matters to your health
MI Big Show

The Health Advice Your Parents Probably Got Wrong

Think snacking and swimming don’t mix? There’s no scientific evidence to stop you. Learn about this and other unoffical rules you can skip.

Mother and daughter

A Healthier Michigan is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association.
No Personal Healthcare Advice or Other Advice
This Web site provides general educational information on health-related issues and provides access to health-related resources for the convenience of our users. This site and its health-related information and resources are not a substitute for professional medical advice or for the care that patients receive from their physicians or other health care providers.
This site and its health-related information resources are not meant to be the practice of medicine, the practice of nursing, or to carry out any professional health care advice or service in the state where you live. Nothing in this Web site is to be used for medical or nursing diagnosis or professional treatment.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other licensed health care provider. Always consult your health care provider before beginning any new treatment, or if you have any questions regarding a health condition. You should not disregard medical advice, or delay seeking medical advice, because of something you read in this site.