Welcome to 2024! Many of us look forward to the new year as a starting date to accomplish great things. Getting your health on track is almost always near the top of that list, and I’m no different. I’m also ready to teach you what you can do to improve your health this year.

Let’s begin the year with something that seems small, almost insignificant, but it’s one thing you shouldn’t ignore: wear something reflective if you’re going to leave your driveway to exercise, walk the dog, or whatever you may do while the mornings and afternoons are so dark.

Here are two examples. I was leaving the fitness club, and out of the corner of my eye I saw a flash of color. It was a guy heading into the club dressed in a dark sweatshirt and sweatpants with a red headband. He was invisible. I never speed out of parking lots, so he was in no danger from me. It just so happens, a man was killed crossing a major street in Grand Rapids that night, again, dressed in all black.

I wear a reflective vest if I’m out walking early. All my running suits have reflective tape built in. It’s a simple thing, but you don’t want to get hurt while you’re trying to improve your health. This is one habit to begin right now to reach your health goals in 2024. And make sure the kids and the dog have reflective tape on their clothing, backpacks, leash, etc., especially now when the days are still short.

What are you prepared to do today? Be reflective!

        Dr. Chet