Cold weather calls for extra care at every age. From ultra-gentle essentials for babies to nourishing moisturizers, daily care essentials, and everyday wellness staples for adults, these winter must-haves help keep the whole family comfortable, hydrated, and healthy all season long. Let’s start with Planet Fitness. Even when it’s freezing out, Planet Fitness is making it easier than ever to reach your wellness goals. They have more than 2,800 locations across the country, so likely there’s a club just minutes from your home. Many are open 24/7, so fitting a workout into your busy schedule is absolutely doable. What truly sets Planet Fitness apart is their incredible value. You get access to best-in-class strength and cardio equipment – the same caliber you’d find at high-priced gyms – all in a welcoming, inspiring, judgement free environment. Memberships start at $15 a month, and free fitness training is included with every membership. They also understand the importance of recovery and well-being, especially this time of year for beating those winter blues. You can get their PF Black Card membership, and gain access to their Black Card Spa, with amazing amenities like hydromassage beds and massage chairs. Head to planetfitness.com to find your nearest club and check out their latest membership deals. A little grooming goodie for the guys is a first of its kind grooming tool, BIC Flex 5 Trim and Shave –super innovative 2-in-1 for head-to-toe grooming with interchangeable heads — so you can customize your look. Use the trimmer head’s 0.5-millimeter blade for a clean 5 o’clock shadow or 1.5 for a three-day stubble. If you want a full shave vs a trim? Switch to the razor head, its clinically proven for sensitive skin, it has a lubricating strip with aloe and almond oil. It’s also great for travel, compared to bulky electric trimmers that need chargers or batteries—this doesn’t. No batteries, no chargers, no hassle. Find it at Amazon and Walmart starting at just $5.97. A skincare must for the kiddos as cold air and indoor heat can leave skin feeling dry is Splash, from the makers of Tree Hut and Baby Magic, is a new body care brand – perfect for parents who want to bridge the gap between baby products and “big kid” routines — made specifically for little ones 4-10, with formulas and ingredients parents can trust, like aloe vera and vitamin E. There’s a 2-in-1 Shampoo and Body Wash, a Bubble Bath with a wand, and a Lightweight Body Lotion. It has a sweet jelly bear scent. Get it at Walmart. Lastly, for the littlest members of the family, winter dryness can be even more noticeable. Baby Magic’s Soothing Collection is made to care for delicate, sensitive skin with gentle, nourishing formulas, made with colloidal oat, shea butter, coconut oil, and aloe to cleanse without stripping moisture. The line includes a Soothing Hair & Body Wash, Creamy Whipped Butter, All-Over Balm, and a Baby Magic Soothing Clean-Up Spray, super convenient to help hydrate. You can use it from bath time to bedtime. It makes cozy winter routines simple for parents — find this at Walmart and Amazon.

With the U.S. expected to have more adults over the age of 65 than children by 2034, the demand for trusted, compassionate home care is rapidly accelerating. In honor of National Caregivers Day, Home Instead gerontologist and caregiving advocate, Dr. Lakelyn Eichenberger, and Home Instead Care Pro Maureen Walsh joined LifeMinute to talk about the people behind caregiving, and how the right support can make all the difference for older adults and their families. Home Instead provides in-home care for older adults, helping them age safely and comfortably — with dignity and joy — in the place they love most: home. For more than 30 years, they’ve supported families through personalized, relationship-based care delivered by trained Care Pros in communities around the world. Their Care Pros assist with everyday needs like personal care, companionship, meal preparation, mobility support, and specialized care for people living with memory loss or chronic conditions. Home Instead also takes a connected care approach — combining relationship-based support with technology that provides real-time updates and shared care information, so families stay informed and feel confident, even when they can’t be there. Today, Home Instead has more than 650 locations across the U.S. and Canada and over 60,000 Care Pros providing trusted care to families every day. Caregiving is about so much more than completing tasks — it’s about building relationships. Home Instead Care Pros take the time to truly get to know the people they support — their routines, preferences, personalities, and what brings them comfort and joy. That consistency builds trust in the home. It helps older adults feel safe, respected, and understood day to day. And over time, that steady presence allows the Care Pro to anticipate needs and adapt as those needs change. They also play an important role for families. By stepping in to provide support or respite, Care Pros give family caregivers the chance to simply be a daughter or son again — to enjoy meaningful time with mom or dad, focused on connection not coordination. That’s what makes home care so powerful. When trust grows, the Care Pro often becomes more than a caregiver — they become an extension of the family. National Caregivers Day is especially meaningful to Home Instead. For nearly 30 years, they’ve celebrated their Care Pro care of the Year program—honoring care pros who go above and beyond every single day. This year, they honor 10 Care Pros from across the U.S. and Canada, including Maureen. They represent the very best of what care looks like—compassion, skill, reliability, and genuine human connection. When Care Pros feel supported and valued, it shows up in the care they provide and in the lives of the older adults and families they support. Visit homeinstead.com to find a local office and learn more about care options in their area.

As focus shifts from new year’s resolutions to building healthy habits that last, LifeMinute hit the Smoothie King headquarters in Dallas to share tips for staying on track well beyond January. So what’s the first habit people should focus on if they want real, lasting change? The biggest thing to remember is that you are unique, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. Sustainable habits start when you honor your individual needs, your lifestyle, your goals, and your schedule – and that’s where customizable options matter. Smoothie King knows this. They’ve spent 50 years on a vision to make the world a better place by nourishing healthy habits, with delicious and nutritious smoothies made without artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, many with zero grams of added sugar, and customizable options that help guests turn healthy intentions into sustainable habits. They really approach smoothies differently, developing recipes, testing them hundreds of times, and working with their in-house nutritional experts to balance nutrients and flavor. Protein is essential for stabilizing energy, managing appetite, and supporting muscle and metabolism. Starting your day with protein-rich fuel, like a smoothie or something simple like avocado toast, can really set the tone. While many brands are just now joining the protein conversation, Smoothie King has been helping guests meet their protein needs for more than 50 years, with protein-forward smoothies and meal replacements on the menu. The challenge is that while nearly half of Americans aim for about 100 grams of protein a day, only 8% actually get there. Smoothie King makes it easy to fuel up with protein thanks to their protein-packed smoothies like the Power Meal Slim category, and the new 100g protein pack—giving you the protein you need without the extra calories. It’s a convenient way to stay full and energized throughout the day. Also, start to think intentionally about how food supports your overall well-being. Choose “real” foods, prioritizing minimally processed fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, seeds and whole grains to maximize nutrient intake and support long-term health. Fiber is a big one too, it’s truly the unsung hero for gut health and satiety. Finally, build habits that fit seamlessly into your routine. When you have default choices, like a go-to smoothie order or an easy, nourishing meal, you reduce decision fatigue. Smoothie King does a great job here, from their power eats menu with high-protein toasts and protein boxes, to being the first to introduce a GLP-1 support menu last year, with high-protein, fiber-rich smoothies, and zero added grams of sugar, making them both nutritious and delicious. To learn more and get started you can visit your local Smoothie King or download their app, where they make it easy to choose smoothies that fit your lifestyle. And just in time for Valentine’s Day, Smoothie King is turning up the “smooth” by partnering with tv personality Tyler Cameron to introduce the Berry Smooth Smoothie—a limited-time offering available nationwide at Smoothie King locations today.

It’s heart health month and studies show that cold, winter temperatures force the body to work harder to stay warm, and that extra effort is one more reason to be mindful of our heart health during the colder months. Cardiologist, Dr. Tiffany Di Pietro always encourages her patients to be proactive about heart heath, especially in their 40s and beyond, and in colder temps. Your heart is one of the hardest-working muscles in your body and relies on energy to function properly. When it comes to supplements, Dr. Di Pietro recommends Qunol Ultra CoQ10 Softgels. CoQ10 is a key nutrient your body used to produce energy at the cellular level, and no part of the body requires more energy than the heart.  While our bodies naturally produce CoQ10, those levels begin to decline with age and can also be affected by some medications. By helping supply the energy the heart needs to function properly, CoQ10 helps support vascular health and healthy blood pressure. Dr. Di Pietro recommends incorporating targeted supplementation, along with lifestyle habits like a balanced diet and regular exercise, which can be beneficial to keeping your heart healthy.  Regular CoQ10 found in many other supplements is poorly absorbed because it doesn’t dissolve well in water. Qunol Ultra CoQ10 Softgels are different. They are water- and fat-soluble to provide up to three times better absorption compared to regular CoQ10, helping people increase CoQ10 levels in just weeks. A healthy heart supports everything you do, and Qunol is the brand that can help you champion your heart health. Qunol Ultra CoQ10 Softgels are available in 60 and 120 counts, starting at $25.99 at all major retailers including Walmart, CVS, and Costco.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., yet many of those affected have no idea until it’s too late. The good news is experts say there are things you can do to safeguard your heart. They note a good place to start is knowing your risk factors – both ones you are born with and ones connected to daily lifestyle habits. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to evaluate your risk. Bayer, the creator of Aspirin more than 150 years ago, and a leader in science and heart health, offers a quick two-minute heart health assessment at SeeYourRisks.com. This online tool helps you take the first step in understanding your heart condition and recognize early warning signs. Using it will help you learn about general risk factors, get a sense of how your “heart age” compares to your actual age, and receive general lifestyle guidance to discuss with a doctor, such as diet, exercise, and managing stress. It can also help you recognize commons signs that may be associated with changes in heart health, including chest discomfort, pressure or palpitations, or feeling unusually tired or out of breath. Monitoring and tracking things like heart rate and blood pressure at home and taking notes you can review during medical appointments, can also support more meaningful conversations with your healthcare provider. Visit SeeYourRisks.com to learn more.

For years, the Blue Jacket Fashion Show has invited stars to walk NYFW runways to raise awareness for prostate cancer. Celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, founder and designer Frederick Anderson along with a few famous faces, actors Mario Cantone, Dominick Fumoso and journalist Don Lemon have come together to discuss its impact, advocacy, and, of course, fashion. About one in eight men will get prostate cancer in their lifetime, so all men over 45 should get a standard PSA test, and it’s easy, just talk to your physician from the very beginning, Johnson & Johnson has stood alongside Blue Jacket—supporting the mission year after year, helping amplify awareness, education, and early detection for prostate cancer. To learn more about prostate cancer and the Blue Jacket Fashion Show event follow them @bluejacketfashionshow on Instagram.

An affordable, judgment-free gym makes it easier to stay fit, save money, and stick to wellness goals in 2026

The holidays are a time for joy, celebration, and making memories, but they can also take a real toll on our bodies. Between marathon shopping trips, long travel days, and endless to-do lists, many Americans are finding themselves in more pain than cheer this time of year.Bayer U.S. Consumer Health conducted a new survey with Morning Consult among 2,201 U.S. adults that found some eye-opening things. More than half of the adults surveyed (59%) say pain limits their ability to enjoy or participate in holiday activities. Looking at just those who indicated that they were parents — 26% of respondents — the number jumps to 70%.Half of adults surveyed responded that they have even left a holiday event early, or thought about it, because of pain. Nearly half of the parents who responded said they experience more holiday-related pain each year. Still, most parents or caregivers surveyed still push through because they want their families to have a great holiday.According to survey responses, the top culprits are back, leg, foot, neck or shoulder pain. Almost half (47%) of the adults surveyed deal with back pain during the holidays. Respondents who experienced physical pain during the holidays attributed this largely to spending long hours on their feet, cleaning or organizing, and performing outdoor tasks. When you add in travel and cold weather, it’s no wonder our bodies are feeling it.Beyond the physical pain, it also takes an emotional toll… two-thirds of adults and over three-quarters of parents surveyed say pain has some impact on their ability to make happy holiday memories. For many, pain can really steal some of that joy and connection we look forward to this time of year.To get ahead of that pain and still enjoy the season, preparation and smart pain management are key. Start by pacing yourself. Don’t try to do it all in one day. Stretch before long shopping trips or car rides, take breaks when you can, and use supportive footwear.For quick, effective relief, over-the-counter pain relievers can make a big difference. In fact, two in five U.S. adults surveyed already use OTC pain medications to relieve pain during the holidays, which are easy to find at major retailers, like Walmart, to manage holiday-related pain.Products like Aleve®, an OTC NSAID, for example, can help relieve pain so you can stay active and focus on making those holiday memories. But remember to always talk to your doctor about your specific healthcare needs.Visit aleve.com to find a bunch of great information on pain management.

A new JAMA Cardiology study shows that Americans’ hearts are biologically older than their actual age – on average, women’s hearts by four years and men’s by seven. When your heart ages faster than your body, it means your risk for cardiovascular disease increases. That’s important, because your heart health is key to longevity. Several things such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and family history are risk factors attributed to accelerated aging. The more risk factors you have, the greater your risk of developing heart disease. The good news is most risk factors are manageable. Small, everyday choices, like quitting smoking, being physically active, eating a balanced diet, reducing alcohol intake, and managing stress can all help reduce risk and improve heart health over time. This is especially important for women, where heart disease remains the leading cause of death, but risk factors are often underestimated or overlooked. Understanding and acting on those risks is critical. To help people take the first step, Bayer® Aspirin is offering a simple, two-minute online heart health risk assessment at seeyourrisks.com. It’s a quick way to understand your potential risk factors for heart disease and start a conversation with your healthcare provider. This tool does not replace an assessment by a qualified healthcare professional about your heart health. So, make sure to schedule your annual visits. Heart health isn’t a passing trend – it’s a critical part of our overall health and future. Understanding your risk factors is the first step to keeping your heart, and your whole self, healthier for longer. And there are easy steps we can all take every day to improve heart health over time.

September is Self-Improvement Month, making it the perfect time to refresh your routine and mindset. As the seasons shift, it’s a great opportunity to focus on nurturing your well-being from the inside out. From self-care rituals to wellness-boosting habits, LifeMinute’s Editor-in-Chief Joann Butler shares some smart, practical tips to help you step into fall feeling refreshed, centered, and confident. Make Fitness More Accessible: It is so important what you’re putting into your body and getting that exercise but having the time to do it can be difficult, so Planet Fitness is making it easy for people by making fitness and wellness more accessible than ever. Whether you’re getting back into it after some time off, or looking to mix up your regimen, or you’re a seasoned pro, they offer an affordable, high-value experience designed to help you build strength, confidence and consistency. They have best-in-class strength and cardio equipment available to all members. The PF Black Card membership lets you rest and recover with other amenities such as access to the black card spa with hydromassage beds and access to more than 2,700 locations, plus you can bring a guest everyday. For more info check out planetfitness.com. Relax and Rejuvenate: Joann’s also a big believer in getting massages and facials. There’s no doubt they improve your overall well-being. Hand and Stone Massage and Facial Spa is a great place to go. They have more than 600 locations in the U.S. and all different kinds of relaxing and rejuvenating treatments for whatever you’re looking for. Find a location near you at handandstone.com/locations. Achieve a “Good Hair Day”: There’s a reason we say “a good hair day” — it boosts your confidence and sets the tone for your day. Luseta Beauty is going to help you get it. It’s a high-end salon-quality hair brand of shampoos, conditioners, treatments, and styling products at an unbelievable price point. Made with natural ingredients, completely free of sulfates, parabens, and they're cruelty-free. This brand is known for targeting whatever it’s in need of — hydration, volume, repair— Joann especially loves their rice water line, inspired by ancient Chinese hair rituals. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals to help strengthen, rebuild, and leave your hair looking strong and shiny. Shop online at luseta-beauty.com or find it on Amazon. Try a Digital Detox: Your mind needs care too. A simple digital detox can work wonders. Try not sleeping with your phone next to you and take regular breaks from screens during the day. Even a few unplugged moments can help you reset and recharge mentally.