Discover - Blog , Motion Minute NewsletterDiscover - Blog , Motion Minute Newsletterhttps://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/NewsletterFri, 01 May 2026 21:06:02 -0700http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Motion Minute: May 2026]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/motion-minute-may-2026

Stroke Awareness Month: Know the Signs. Take Steps to Prevent.

What if just a few minutes of awareness today could change or even save a life?

This Stroke Awareness Month, take time to learn the signs of a stroke and the proactive steps you can take to protect your health. While strokes can happen at any age, many are preventable. When a stroke does occur, quick action can significantly improve outcomes. Awareness and prevention truly go hand in hand.

Remember B.E F.A.S.T. to Recognize the Signs

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is blocked or reduced. Because the brain depends on a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood, immediate medical care is critical.

Use the acronym B.E. F.A.S.T. to remember the most common warning signs:

B – Balance: Sudden loss of balance, coordination, or dizziness

E – Eyes: Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes


F – Face Drooping: One side of the face droops or feels numb. The smile may appear uneven.

A – Arm Weakness: One arm feels weak or numb, or drifts downward when both arms are raised.

S– Speech Difficulty: Speech is slurred, hard to understand, or difficult to produce clearly.

T – Time to Call 911: If any of these signs are present, call 911 immediately.

Other possible symptoms include sudden confusion, difficulty walking, or a severe headache with no known cause.

View Full Article Here

USER TIP OF THE MONTH
Embrace the Outdoors

As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, take your steps outside! Walking outdoors does more than keep you active—it supports a healthier heart. Walking at a steady pace helps improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and build endurance over time. 


Plus, fresh air and varied terrain naturally engages your lungs and muscles, turning a simple walk into an easy, effective way to support cardiovascular health.

NUTRITION CORNER
Nutrition Hack: Layer the Flavor!

Add herbs and spices in stages while you cook. Add them early for depth, midway for aroma, and at the end for freshness. This approach enhances both taste and nutrient content, as many herbs and spices are high in antioxidants that can be lost with prolonged heat. 

Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help. Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket

Monthly Question: What is one of the common signs of stroke from the BE FAST acronym?

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

]]>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 23:30:00 -0500<![CDATA[Motion Minute: April 2026]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/motion-minute-april-2026

Mindfulness Made Easy: A Beginner's Guide

In today’s fast-paced world, caring for your wellbeing is more important than ever. Being mindful of your everyday choices, feelings, and habits is essential to making a meaningful difference in your life and overall wellbeing. 

What is Mindfulness, and Why Does it Matter?

Mindfulness is simply paying attention to the present moment on purpose and without judgment. 

It means being attentive to your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings with openness and awareness rather than reacting automatically or getting caught up in stress. Mindfulness enables us to take a pause in our everyday lives and refocus ourselves on the present. 

Research shows that practicing mindfulness regularly can:
    • Reduce stress
    • Improve focus
    • Support emotional balance 
    • Improve sleep
    • Boost mood 

By becoming more aware of your thoughts and feelings, you gain the ability to choose how you respond instead of letting stress choose for you.

The best part? You don’t need special training, extra time, or a perfect environment to get started!

View Full Article Here

USER TIP OF THE MONTH
​​Don't Forget the Final Step!

As a reminder, all activity challenges finalize and close off to new activity data three days after the challenge end date. 


Don't forget to make sure your data from the challenge period is synced before then! 

WELLNESS MYTH
​"I can catch up on sleep over the weekend."

Binge-sleeping doesn’t undo weekday sleep deprivation. Irregular sleep patterns disrupt your circadian rhythm and leave you groggy, even after sleeping in.

 

Quick Tip: Create a sleep routine where you go to bed and wake up at consistent times even on weekends. A regular rhythm improves sleep quality, mood, and focus.

Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help. Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket

Monthly Question: How do you practice mindfulness?

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

]]>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0500<![CDATA[Motion Minute: March 2026]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/motion-minute-march-2026

THE WELLNESS UPDATE

The Gut-Wellness Connection: How Your Gut Affects Your Whole Body

When most people hear the term “gut health,” they think of digestion or how their body reacts to certain foods. But your gut is doing way more than just breaking down last night’s dinner.

Your digestive system is one of the most complex systems in your body. The good news? Supporting your gut doesn’t have to be complicated. A few simple, consistent habits can make a significant difference.

Let’s break down why gut health is so important and how to improve it in a way that feels realistic and sustainable.

Your Gut Does More Than Digest Food

Your digestive system is the largest part of your body’s internal processing system. Every time you eat or drink, your body begins a complex process of breaking those items down into nutrients — carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. 

Those nutrients aren’t just fuel. They’re the building blocks your body uses to:

    •  Repair tissues
    •  Produce hormones
    •  Maintain energy
    •  Support brain function
    •  Strengthen the immune system

When your gut isn’t functioning optimally, it doesn’t just affect digestion. It can impact your entire body.
View Full Article Here

USER TIP OF THE MONTH
​Connect Through the Challenge Chat

Challenges aren't just about the leaderboard - they're about cheering each other on too! Every challenge has a chat where you can send encouragement, celebrate wins, and connect with your co-workers!


Jump into a challenge, head to the Challenges page, and tap 'View Leaderboard' to find the chat and join the conversation.

NUTRITION CORNER
Nutrition Hack
​Save the Stems!

Stop! Don’t throw those broccoli stalks or kale stems away. With a little extra cooking, they can be used in stir-fries and soups. They’re rich in fiber and micronutrients, and their firmer texture adds variety to your meals.

Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help. Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket

Monthly Question: What is the foundation of gut health? 

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

]]>Sat, 28 Feb 2026 15:14:00 -0600<![CDATA[Motion Minute: February 2026]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/motion-minute-february-2026THE WELLNESS UPDATE Prevention Is Power: Taking Charge of Your Health with Preventative Care Imagine your health is like a garden. If you wait until wee ]]>

THE WELLNESS UPDATE

Prevention Is Power: Taking Charge of Your Health with Preventative Care


Imagine your health is like a garden. If you wait until weeds take over and pests cause damage, you have to scramble to fix the problems. But if you nurture it regularly, tending to small issues before they grow, the health of the garden becomes much easier to maintain. Preventative care works much the same. By tending to your own well-being through regular check-ups and screenings, you give your body its best chance to thrive, which is exactly what preventative care is all about.

Preventative care encompasses the medical services and screenings designed to prevent illnesses or catch them early when treatment is most effective. Rather than waiting for symptoms to surface, preventative care aims to maintain health through:

    • Annual Physicals
    • Immunizations
    • Screenings for conditions like cancer, diabetes, or high blood pressure
    • Counseling on lifestyle choices such as nutrition, exercise, and tobacco use

These services are typically covered 100% by health insurance under most employer-sponsored and ACA-compliant health plans, meaning no copay, deductible, or coinsurance when received from an in-network provider...
View Full Article Here

WELLNESS TRENDS

Still Thinking About New Year's Goals? You’re Not too Late.

Last month, more than 1,400 Motion Connected users completed our Reflection & Goal Setting activity to clarify their priorities for the year ahead.

If you missed it, you haven’t missed your chance. Download the activity below and start building goals that support your well-being.
Download PDF

FACT CHECK
Wellness Myth:
“Pain is a normal part of aging.”

It’s true that our bodies change with age but daily pain that limits your movement, sleep, or ability to focus is not “just part of getting older.” Often, that pain can be reduced or even eliminated through early intervention, physical therapy, exercise, or other treatments.

Quick Tip: If pain is affecting your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy your day, don’t just live with it. Talk to your healthcare provider.

Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help. Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket.

Monthly Question: What type of healthcare is typically covered 100% by health insurance?

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

]]>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 14:43:00 -0600<![CDATA[Motion Minute: January 2026]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/motion-minute-january-2026THE WELLNESS UPDATE The One Nutrient 95% of Americans Are Lacking (and Why It Matters) When trying to improve your diet or lose weight, you’re often m ]]>

THE WELLNESS UPDATE
The One Nutrient 95% of Americans Are Lacking (and Why It Matters)


When trying to improve your diet or lose weight, you’re often met with countless opinions about what to eat, what not to eat, and even when to eat. It’s understandable that healthy eating can sometimes feel overly complicated.

But what if there were a single nutrient you could focus on increasing? One that helps ward off disease, supports heart health, and aids with weight loss? Not only does such a nutrient exist, but a whopping 95% of American adults and children aren’t getting enough of it. It’s something you’ve likely heard of before: fiber.

The Benefits
Fiber’s importance for heart health, digestion, and overall well-being is difficult to overstate. Here are just a few of its key benefits:

Cholesterol & Blood Sugar
Eating a diet high in fiber can help lower LDL cholesterol, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol. Foods that contain soluble fiber are particularly beneficial, as this type of fiber binds to cholesterol in the digestive tract and helps prevent it from being absorbed into the bloodstream.

Fiber also plays an important role in stabilizing blood sugar levels. By slowing down digestion, it slows the release of glucose into the bloodstream and helps prevent sharp spikes and crashes in blood sugar.

Fiber Keeps Us Regular
Digestive issues such as constipation or diarrhea can be uncomfortable and disruptive. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, keeping them more consistent and easing common digestive discomfort...

View Full Article Here

USER TIP OF THE MONTH

Don’t Miss Out on Your Hard Work!

You’ve earned those steps—make sure they count!

If you’re using Apple Health or Health Connect, remember to open the Motion Connected app regularly to sync your data (at least once per month). Unlike Fitbit and Garmin, these apps don’t sync in the background when the MC app is closed.

Learn more about how syncing works [here].



WORKOUTS

Get Our New Strength Training Plan

You don’t need fancy equipment to get strong, just a plan that works.

Our new printable equipment-free strength training plan is designed to meet you where you are. Simply adjust the number of repetitions or the number of times you complete the circuit to fit your fitness level. It's perfect for busy schedules, home workouts, and a fresh start in the new year.


Click the button below to get the PDF!

Download PDF

NUTRITION CORNER
Nutrition Hack #7
Squeeze Some Sunshine!

Add a squeeze of lemon or lime to plant-based meals like spinach, beans, or lentils. The vitamin C in citrus helps your body absorb iron more efficiently, supporting energy levels and nutrient uptake. It’s a simple way to make your food work harder for you.


Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help. Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket.

Monthly Question: What nutrient are most Americans not getting enough of?

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

]]>Tue, 30 Dec 2025 16:19:53 -0600<![CDATA[Motion Minute: December 2025]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/motion-minute-december-2025

THE WELLNESS UPDATE
Foods That Support a Healthy Immune System

What you eat can help your immune system work at its best. While no single food can prevent illness, certain nutrients play a key role in keeping your body’s defenses strong.

Vitamin-C–Rich Foods
Citrus fruits, berries, and bell peppers are top sources of vitamin C, which helps immune cells function.

Try: A berry yogurt parfait, citrus-spinach salad, or stuffed bell peppers.

Antioxidant-Packed Vegetables
Broccoli and leafy greens like spinach provide vitamins A, C, and E, plus protective antioxidants.

Try: Roasted broccoli bowls, spinach omelets, or a simple green smoothie.

Healthy Fats
Fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel supply omega-3 fats that help reduce inflammation.

Try: Baked lemon-garlic salmon or a salmon-and-veggie grain bowl.

Gut-Friendly Foods
Yogurt with live cultures supports the gut microbiome, an important part of immunity.

Try: Greek yogurt topped with nuts and fruit or yogurt-based smoothies.

Nuts, Seeds & Spices
Almonds and sunflower seeds provide vitamin E and selenium. Garlic, ginger, and turmeric offer natural anti-inflammatory support.

Try: Almond-crusted chicken, sunflower-seed salad toppers, ginger-turmeric tea, or garlic-roasted vegetables.

The bottom line? A diet rich in colorful produce, healthy fats, fermented foods, and (if you like) immune-supporting spices helps your body's defenses keep you well.

USER TIP OF THE MONTH

Stay Up to Date

Message board isn’t just for health tips, it’s also a place where your program administrators post important updates and reminders. Download the Motion Connected app and allow notifications to never miss an update from your company!

WELLNESS TRENDS

Your 1 Holiday-Season Non-Negotiable

Want to stay grounded this holiday season? Set one non-negotiable for your wellness.  Choose something small but meaningful like a consistent bedtime, a short morning stretch, or five minutes of quiet before the day begins and treat it as a promise to yourself. Your wellbeing matters just as much as the celebrations around you! 

FACT CHECK
Wellness Myth #3​
​"Mental health doesn’t affect physical health.”

We often compartmentalize our lives—work, physical health, and emotions—as if they’re unrelated. But ignoring mental health impacts the entire body. Things like chronic stress, anxiety, or depression can weaken your immune system, disrupt digestion, and drain your energy. 

Quick Tip: Protect your peace like you protect your calendar. Build 10–15 minutes into your workday for a walk, deep breathing, or a screen break. 


Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help. Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket.

Monthly Question: What's one food that supports a healthy immune system?

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

]]>Sun, 30 Nov 2025 20:00:01 -0600<![CDATA[Motion Minute: November 2025]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/motion-minute-november-2025

THE WELLNESS UPDATE
How to Rake Leaves Without Hurting Your Back

Raking may look simple, but it’s a real workout for your back, shoulders, and arms. Here’s how to clear your yard safely and pain-free this fall with advice inspired by experts at the Cleveland Clinic.

1. Warm Up First
Treat raking like exercise. Take a quick walk, swing your arms, or do light stretches to warm up before starting.

2. Keep Good Form
Stand tall, bend your knees slightly, and avoid twisting your back. Move your feet to face the direction you’re raking instead of rotating your spine.

3. Choose the Right Rake
Pick a rake that fits your height and strength. A handle that’s too long or heavy can strain your back. 

4. Take Breaks
Work in short bursts — about 20 to 30 minutes — and stretch between rounds. Spread the job over a few days if you can.

5. Lift Smart
When bagging leaves, bend at your knees, not your waist, and keep the load close to your body. Use a tarp or wheelbarrow instead of carrying heavy bags.

Bottom line: Giving yourself a little extra care goes a long way when doing a strenuous activity you’re not accustomed to.

USER TIP OF THE MONTH

Activity Tracking

Here’s a pro tip for those with activity trackers linked to Motion Connected:
Be sure to log in regularly throughout your wellness program to visit your Dashboard and confirm that your data is syncing properly.

Even if your device is linked, occasional disruptions can happen. If syncing issues arise, don’t worry — just visit our support pages (linked at the bottom of this article) or reach out to our support team for help.

WELLNESS TRENDS

Smarter Wearables, Deeper Insights

While activity tracking is the main focus for MC challenges, today’s wellness tech is going far beyond step counts. The newest generation of smart devices and wearables can now track stress levels, sleep quality, and even nervous system activity, offering a more complete picture of your overall well-being. 


These tools are helping people spot early signs of burnout, improve recovery, and make more informed choices about rest and movement. 

NUTRITION CORNER
​​Nutrition Hack #6
​Switch up your coffee routine

Try replacing one of your daily coffees with a cup of green tea. Green tea provides a steadier energy boost than coffee and is rich in catechins, compounds linked to improved metabolism, heart health, and reduced inflammation. 


You’ll still get a gentle caffeine boost, minus the mid-afternoon crash!

Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help. Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket.

Monthly Question: What should Motion Connected participants with a device linked do regularly?

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

]]>Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:38:41 -0500<![CDATA[Motion Minute: October 2025]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/motion-minute-october-2025

THE WELLNESS UPDATE
A Healthier Way to Savor Pumpkin Spice Season

There’s no doubt about the most beloved flavor of fall: pumpkin spice. This warm and nutty blend makes its way into just about everything this time of year from drinks and pies to candles and even deodorant!

With all of the seasonal products, you might be wondering, is pumpkin spice actually good for us?

OBSERVANCES

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is October🎗

Breast cancer can affect all genders - early detection can save lives.

Be Aware of the Signs:
  • New lump in the breast or underarm
  • Swelling, pain or thickening in the breast
  • Skin changes: dimpling, redness, or flaking
  • Nipple discharge or changes in shape

Understand the Risk Factors:
  • Age 55 and older
  • Family history or inherited gene mutations
  • Smoking and alcohol use
  • Obesity
  • Past radiation exposure
  • Hormone therapy use

Your health matters. Know your body. Talk to your doctor. Get screened!

USER TIP OF THE MONTH

Reminder: App Update for Android

In case you missed it, the Motion Connected app for Android was updated early this year to support Health Connect—Google’s new and improved service for sharing health and fitness data across apps. 


​What you need to do: If you have an Android phone and were previously using Google Fit to sync activity data, you will need to open the Motion Connected app and go to the Settings page to enable permissions for Health Connect to sync your data.
​
For more information, click here >>

WELLNESS TRENDS
Wellness Myth #2
​​“Weight = Health”

It’s easy to assume that being “thin” means being healthy but real wellness is so much more than body size. Your daily habits matter just as much than the number on the scale. Physical activity, balanced nutrition, quality sleep, stress management, and strong social connections all play a big role in long-term.

 

Quick Tip: Don’t rely on the scale alone. Create a routine that supports your well-being! Pay attention to your energy, focus, sleep, and stress levels; these all give important clues.

Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help. Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket.

Monthly Question: Name one risk factor for developing breast cancer. 

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

]]>Tue, 30 Sep 2025 16:49:49 -0500<![CDATA[Motion Minute: September 2025]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/motion-minute-september-2025

THE WELLNESS UPDATE
Reset Your Routine: 5 Ways to Kickstart a Healthy September

Summer’s carefree pace is coming to an end, and September brings the perfect chance to start fresh. This time of year feels like a natural reset, a moment to pause, refocus, and build habits that support your well-being. If you are ready to feel your best this season, here are a few simple ways to get started:

Set a Sleep Goal

Your body and mind thrive on rest. Aim for seven to nine hours each night to boost energy, sharpen focus, and keep cravings in check.

Plan Your Meals
A little preparation can make healthy eating much easier. Map out a few balanced meals for the week to save time, reduce stress, and avoid last-minute takeout.

Move Daily
You don't need hours in the gym. Even ten to fifteen minutes of movement makes a difference. Try a quick walk, stretch break, or bodyweight circuit to keep your body active.

Declutter Your Tech
A clean digital space can help calm your mind. Unsubscribe from emails, organize your apps, and take breaks from your screens throughout the day.

Write It Down
Set a goal, track your progress, or jot down something you are grateful for. A few minutes of journaling can lift your mood and strengthen your motivation.

Small steps taken now can lead to big changes later. Which one will you start with?

USER TIP OF THE MONTH

Wondering why activity data doesn't show up on your dashboard right away?

Your activity data has to make a few stops before it reaches your Motion Connected account. The exact timing depends on the type of activity tracker you use, but these guidelines are a good rule of thumb: 

Garmin & Fitbit: Usually sync every 3–4 hours but can take up to 24 hours to sync.
Apple Health & Health Connect: Syncs each time you open the MC app (if there is new data).

To learn more about how data syncing works, click here.

WELLNESS TRENDS

Chill Out with a Cold Shower

Cold showers are making waves in the wellness world for their benefits. They may boost circulation, sharpen focus, and even give skin a healthy glow. Some research also points to reduced inflammation and quicker muscle recovery, though more study is needed.


They aren’t for everyone, especially those with heart conditions. To try it safely, start by finishing your shower with 30 seconds of cool water and gradually increase the time. Learn more at [Cleveland Clinic's Health Essentials].

NUTRITION CORNER
​​Nutriton Hack #5
​“Boost your Breakfast”

Kick off your day with a protein at breakfast to keep hunger in check and energy steady. Protein slows digestion and helps regulate blood sugar, which means fewer mid-morning crashes and cravings. 


Try eggs with veggies, Greek yogurt with berries, or a protein smoothie for a strong start!

Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help. Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket.

Monthly Question: What's one tip mentioned for resetting your routine that you found helpful?

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

]]>Sun, 31 Aug 2025 21:00:00 -0500<![CDATA[Motion Minute: August 2025]]>https://www.mc-discover.com/blogs/post/motion-minute-august-20251

THE WELLNESS UPDATE
Transform Your Wellness Journey with a Growth Mindset

When striving to better our health and wellness, mindset can truly make all the difference. What’s known as a growth mindset is one way of thinking that can boost your resilience, reduce stress and anxiety associated with setbacks, and increase your overall likelihood of success. Whether your goal is to lose weight, build muscle, eat better, or find more balance in life, a growth mindset can help.


So, what exactly is a growth mindset, and how can you harness its power to transform your health and wellness journey? Read the full article [here].

USER TIP OF THE MONTH

Never Miss a Challenge

Most step challenge invitations will be posted on your Challenges page two weeks before the start of each challenge.

Want to get notified by email? Be sure your email address is current on your Account page to receive invites directly to your inbox.

HEY SCORECARD USERS!

A Simple Way to Earn Points

Log your weight once per month on the Health Profile page. It’s a simple step that supports your weight-awareness goals and many programs reward you with points for your first recorded weight each month. Check your Scorecard to see if this option is available in your program.


Please Note: Scorecard programs vary between organizations. Yours may not include points for weight checks.

WELLNESS TRENDS
​​Wellness Myth #1
​“I can out-exercise a poor diet.”

It's easy to assume that being active means you don't have to pay as much attention to your diet. But exercise alone can't fully offset the impact of poor nutrition. In fact, fueling your body properly becomes even more important when you're active—helping you recover faster, build strength, and sustain your energy levels.


Quick Tip: Meal prep two or three simple, nutritious lunches at the start of your workweek—like quinoa bowls, salads, or wraps. This small habit makes nourishing choices easier, even when takeout is tempting.

Need help? If you have any questions about your account, our support team is here to help. Email: support@motionconnected.com or visit our support pages to submit a ticket.

Monthly Question: When are challenge invites posted?

If the Motion Minute newsletter is available in your scorecard, be sure to submit your answer in the scorecard (not below) to earn points.

]]>Fri, 01 Aug 2025 11:07:56 -0500