Happy Monday!!  Becky is back with another round of Fit and Healthy for you from The Gym in North Muskegon. 

This time, she's breaking out the TRX straps and while you might think that this kind of stuff is best used to make sure your luggage stays on the roof of the car while you're heading out this Summer... Becky sees it a little differently and has some plans for ya.  Now, you might need to invest a little in some of this equipment, or..if it's something you'd like to try before you buy your own, you could consider joining her at The Gym in North Muskegon for one of her groups or a little one on one.

As always, check with your physician before beginning this or any workout program. Warm up, stretch out and make sure you stay hydrated!  Bust out the straps... here comes episode 48!

It was a rough one.  Hope you didn't end up tangled up in your TRX equipment or, maybe just scared away from the idea. :)  Becky is awesome and can help get you to this point if you want it!  In fact, you can even join her for the Transformation Challenge at The Gym in North Muskegon if you are ready to get in shape.  Get the details on the challenge below and click on it to reserve one of the spots limited to 10 people in the group!!  Good luck!! 

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Hopefully, you've been enjoying and benefitting from Fit and Healthy With Becky on The Muskegon Channel for a while!  Heck, tomorrow marks the 48th episode that will be coming out, but there are also some people out there who enjoy fitness in a group setting and Becky has just the thing for you!

She's running a special class called The Transformation Challenge at The Gym in North Muskegon.

The class is limited to 10 participants.  There are prizes involved.  There is motiviation in groups.  There are two meetings a week and there are others who want to encourage you and help push you along to achive!

Get the scoop from Becky and I about the Transformation Challenge!

Sound like something you're up for?  It's as simple as getting a hold of Becky!  All the details are below and you can click on the image to get in touch direct!  Get in on the next Transofrmation Challenge with Becky at The Gym.

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Mood changes during and after pregnancy.  Quite often, what we see and hear about the subject is dealt with in the movies and TV as a woman crying about some mundane situation or what should be a simple task, but,since she's just had a baby she's a disaster and her hair is filled with curlers while she stands there in a robe with a house full of screaming kids, the phone ringing, the dog barking, the door bell buzzing and of course...something is boiling over on the stove....it's the classic household mayhem scene all because "postpartum depression" has set in.  Well, it's a little more complicated than that and the reality is that it's a pretty serious situation and the subject is being seen in a new light and something that should be talked about.

Like any other "secret affliction" women who deal with these mood changes quite often feel like they are isolated.  That no one else must have the feelings they do because after all, you just had a baby right?  It's the most joyful time in life.  There are new beginnings, new purpose...a renewed sense of purpose, direction and meaning.  But...for the last 9 months....the body of the woman has been on the biggest roller-coaster ride it will ever be on.  From the hormonal changes to the shape and size...welcoming a new critter into the world is a huge endeavor and getting back to "normal" it's not going to happen over night.  One in seven women will suffer from some form of pregnancy and postpartum mood disorder and on in a thousand will suffer from postpartum psychosis.  These are real mental health issues and to the woman suffering them they are a dark place filled with isolation and since we've decided that a new born is supposed to be nothing but joy...the women often feel they have nowhere to turn to look for help let alone even talk about what they are feeling inside. Click Here to Reserve Your Free Tickets to Dark Side of the Full Moon May 16th

Let's break the conversation open.  Let's get past the game and mystery and talk point blank about what actually happens in these cases.  Sounds great coming from some clueless guy right?  That's why we bring in people who know what they are talking about.  Laura Bronold is an RN at North Ottawa Community Hospital where she is the Coordinator of their Prenatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder Program, Postpartum Support Group facilitator and Childbirth Educator.  She is also the lead facilitator of the Lakeshore Prenatal Mood Disorders Coalition which serves Ottawa and Muskegon County and is a board member of the Michigan Statewide Prenatal Mood Disorders Coalition.  Missy Gallegos is with the Muskegon Health Project and works in a few different coalitions around town.  You've seen Missy here before with the Know Smoke Zombie Walk and more.  We sat down at Cinema Carousel to talk about the upcoming screening of the film "The Dark Side of the Full Moon" which chronicles the story of two women who traveled the country to tell the stories of pregnancy and mood disorders.  The showing is coming up May 16th and you can reserve a seat by clicking on the image above.  For now, a little more on the subject from Laura and Missy.

Like anything suffered in isolation...the beginnings of an answer come from the willingness to communicate about the problem.  From the writers perspective, I never had kids or went through the pregnancy process so I like so many others don't know the first thing about it.  But, I do know that finding those that do know a thing or two about it and connecting you with them...well, that's when we begin to build toward making things change and for the better.  It's time to come out of the darkness when it comes to pregnancy and mood disorders.  Society is now in a place where our mental health is paramount and as we talked in the video.... there is help out there.  In the form of professional help or groups....we can change the way that women deal with these challenges and we can also shatter the stereotype of "postpartum depression" and address the issue head on.  My thanks to Laura and Missy for joining me for the talk.  For more on the services offered by Laura at North Ottawa Hospital click on the image below and you can also view the full trailer of "Dark Side of the Full Moon" below that.

Happy Monday!!  A Bosu Ball!  What is it?  Glad you asked!  It's half of a stability ball that's on a base and it's used in a variety of ways, which Becky is about to show you in today's episode!  A multi purpose devise, you'll be able to use what you learn in today's show for some strength, endurance and balance!  It might require a little investment in the equipment, but in the long term, it will pay off as you use it over and over.

Becky has a weekly show here on The Muskegon Channel, but she's also got a really fun weekly program going at The Gym in North Muskegon.  It's limited to 10 people and it's called The Transformation Challenge!  You meet twice a week and enjoy a series of work stations to share the experience with others who want to help each other shape up too!  There is power in groups and some encouragement and accountability don't hurt either. 

For now, let's bust out the Bosu Ball!  It's episode 47 of Fit and Healthy With Becky on The Muskegon Channel.

If the Bosu Ball is your thing great.  If that Transformation Challenge sounds like something you'd be more interested in....well, hey, click on the photo below to get in touch with Becky and find yourself a slot!  Our thanks to The Gym in North Muskegon for being our host club and our thanks to you for tuning in!  

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One thing we can hopefully all agree on is that the opioid crisis is WAY out of hand.  We're not here to say that if you truly need them, you shouldn't have access, but..if you've got some laying around the house or maybe you have a prescription that has expired or is left over from a relative that has passed and you don't know what to do about them, there is a safe and easy way to get rid of what you have and the opportunity comes with no questions asked from law enforcement or health care as to why you have a prescription with someone else's name on it.

April 28th from 9a-1p you can participate in the Spring Muskegon Area Medication Disposal Program at the Norton Shores Fire Department on Pontaluna Road.  You don't even have to get out of the car to drop off your unused medications and sharps.  There is a quick survey and then you rid yourself of the left overs and save yourself the risk of someone else getting them or, the environmental damage you can do by using the old stand by of flushing them down the toilet...which is not recommended at all.  Follow the MAMDP on Facebook

Since the program began in Muskegon back in 2010...get this, over 30,000 pounds of outdated and unused medications have been dropped off.  THIRTY THOUSAND POUNDS of pills.  Imagine that?  Think of the risk involved in those meds getting in to the wrong hands.  Think of the safety of your kids or your kids friends who might come over and just happen to find something like that in a medicine cabinet or closet?  The danger is real, and the awareness has never been higher.  This is why The Health Project of Mercy Health along with The Muskegon County Law Enforcement Agencies team up to help remove the risk from the community with this safe and anonymous program.

Rachel McCoy is with The Health Project at Mercy Health.  She and I met up at the Emergency Command Center of the Muskegon County Police Department to discuss the program a little and get you up to speed on what to expect on April 28th.  Take a listen.

 The idea is...better safe than sorry.  As we've discussed in the past and as we've featured a story or two over the years, we're in a bad spot when it comes to pills and opiate based medications and addiction.  If you are not using highly addictive medications and they are in your house...they pose a risk.  This is a free, safe and anonymous way to keep your risk to a minimum and make sure those kind of medications are out of your home.  You should also do an inventory of all your other medications to see if they are past their expiration date and clear them out too.  Think of it as Spring Cleaning for your medicine cabinet and closet.  Take them to the Norton Shores Fire Department on April 28th and know they will be disposed of properly.  Our thanks to The Health Project of Mercy Health for their sponsorship of The Muskegon Channel as well as their stewardship of Muskegon and our people. To visit the MAMDP website click on the image below.

Time to step it up a little.  Becky is back with this week's installment of Fit and Healthy with Becky from The Gym in North Muskegon.  It's a workout involving some steps and a coupe of weights that will bring a little added something.  

Becky is a personal trainer and works to keep her clients, and you...."Fit and Healthy".  If you work out along here on The Muskegon Channel or if you take her up on one of her classes at The Gym or The Muskegon Country Club, she'll devise a plan custom tailored to your needs and ability.  In a group setting or one on one, Becky is dedicated to making sure your road to better health is purpose driven, fun and directed.

Before you start this or any exercise program, please consult your doctor.  Always warm up, stretch out and remember to drink plenty of water!

On to episode 46 of Fit and Healthy With Becky!

BAM! You did it!  Keep it up!  Come back again.  The best part of Fit and Healthy on The Muskegon Channel?  You can come back as often as you like, work at your own pace and you can also share it with friends!  If you'd like more one on one attention....Becky is as close as a click.  You can click on the image below to link over to her website to get in touch and get going on a personalized program. 

Muskegon County Prosecutor DJ Hilson is passionate about protecting young people.  He works long and hard to help them avoid some of the mistakes that come with growing up and quite honestly, he does it too, to help keep young people from having to come in to contact with him at his work.  As a parent himself he knows first hand the dangers kids face day in and day out and that pressure comes from every direction in young peoples lives and pressure often leads to choices that can impact them for years to come. Visit the AMP Muskegon Website

April 20th, Dj will be bringing his discussion called "Shattering the Myths" about marijuana to Orchard View High School.  A program in association with AMP, an outreach of The Health Project at Mercy Health.  It's a discussion to bring awareness to young people about marijuana and the potential dangers it has for them.  He will be bring some guests along with him who have experienced some addiction issues and have found a new life in recovery.  He will also talk about some of the unknowns about today's marijuana.  Concentration levels of active ingredients, ingredients used in the growing process and some of the hidden things that might not often be considered when it comes to getting a drug off the street.  

No matter where you stand on the issue, I hope we can all agree that keeping kids away from marijuana or alcohol or any substance that's intoxicating is a good idea.  Young minds need time to develop and to keep kids away from such things.  I understand it's a very hot topic and a very divisive issue at the time, and in our conversation we do talk about the potential for Michigan to become a legalization state. 

I stopped in to Dj Hilson's office to talk about the presentation and we were joined by Jason Carlson who is with the Muskegon Parole Office to talk about the presentation.  Take a listen.

The arguments are loud on both sides.  It's our sincere hope however that we can all agree that like alcohol, keeping our young people away from substances that can effect their judgement and ability to deal with life on life's terms is a good thing.  The adversity faced by young people is tough but for them to find a crutch early on as opposed to finding a way to cope can lead to many more problems down the road.  Time will tell what comes of the legalization push, but for our young people, information is key and Dj will coninue to inform them to the best of his ability.  

We're up to 44 episodes of Fit and Healthy with Becky on The Muskeogn Channel.  We've worked on amrs, legs, butts cardio, abs...you name it.  It's been awesome and hopefully you've reaped the benefits by following along when you can.

Today, she's busting out this thing called a stability ball.  If you think back to when you were a kid, you could put a handle on it and bounce all around the driveway or the basement, but today, the handle is gone and the purpose has changed to make sure you are staying in shape and getting the most out of your workout!

Anytime is a great time to get started on a workout program!  Just make sure you check with your doctor first and always warm up, stretch out and make sure you drink lots of water!

On to episode 44 of Fit and Healthy with Becky from The Gym in North Muskegon!

Quick and to the point....now it's on you!  You can use this over and over all week, you can go as fast as you like or you can take your time and pace yourself to customize your work out to fit your level.  Becky is a personal trainer and works at The Gym in North Muskegon, The Muskegon Country Club or is available for one on one in your home!  You can learn more by visiting her website which is linked below.

If you take a look at Andy O the first thing that comes to mind is probably "health nut" right?  Ok, maybe not but then again, not everything to do with great health is always visible from the surface.  Some of what might be making you not feel so good might be hiding beneath the surface and you won't know a thing about it until it's too late.  Well, Bluewater Wellness has a program that can help you learn a little more and can show some early warning signs in a painless and non invasive way that's as simple as a quick scan of your neck and Andy went in to try it out to show you how it's done.

The process is called a CIMT screening and that stands for "carotid intima-media thickness" test.  The doctor utilizes a very common tool called an Ultrasound Machine to take a peek at the arteries in your neck.  They take a look at the thickness of the tissue and gauge it to see if there is any build up of plaque which can lead to bigger problems down the road.  They will tell you too that this is a very preliminary peek.  They can get an idea pretty quick if you need further attention or if you are in ok shape.  By further attention, it could be a follow up with your Dr. or it could be a change in diet and exercise.  One thing that was really great, as you'll see in the video is that they tell you on the spot what's going on instead of getting the imaging done and then having to wait a week to hear back on it.

Dr. Alicia Williams is the visiting doctor who comes over from the Lansing area to do these simple scans, and she will return to Bluewater Wellness on April 27th if you think this is something that you can benefit from.  Take a look at how it all works with Andy O as the guinea pig in this segment here on The Muskegon Channel.

Pretty simple and easy huh?  The results are instant as well and you leave a little more knowledgeable right there on the spot about what could or couldn't be.  Bluewater Wellness is doing a LOT to help people stay healthy and live a better life so if you think this is something you can benefit from, click on the image below to link over to the Bluewater Wellness site and reserve your time on April 27th.  It might be something that saves your life.

You're going to be working your arms a litle this go around.  Becky Biesiada broke out the dumbbells for this one and you'll be getting toned up for spring.  Let's face it...suns out, guns out right?  After a weekend like we had with the sunshine and blue skies everyone has the itch!

We'll cut the chit chat and get right to it....

 Just like that!!  After 42 weeks of this, you're probably all buff and ready for the beach!  Still a little snow in the forecast next weekend, but hey..keep up the work outs!  If you'd like a little more, or maybe a group thing...we film at The Gym in North Muskegon.  Located right on the 4 Corners.  It's got a calm feeling and a grown up atmosphere.  Their memberships are affordable and you're welcome to stop in and see them anytime for a tour.  Click on the image below to connect with The Gym. 

8 Weeks ago, we introduced you to Dee Kohley and Dr. Ramona Wallace as they came on to sponsor The Muskegon Channel and the Positively Muskegon blog.  The operate Bluewater Wellness on Vanwagoner Road and as we talked about their sponsorship, they asked if there was anything they offered I'd like to try and I said that a sugar cessation program, if available would be of interest.  I kind of got a smile out of them and they said "Ya, we think we can help."  

Well, its' been 8 weeks as mentioned, and I am down 2 pants sizes about 40 pounds and the sugar cravings...well, they pop up once in a while.  I don't think any life long craving ever goes away, but..over all, they are close to non existent and the results I have found were beyond my wildest imagination. 

I have had lots of questions about how it all works and what kind of diet I am on.  Done what I can to answer those, but one question keeps popping up and that's "What is the one on one session like?"  Well, let's answer it.  It's a comfortable setting.  It's a relaxing atmosphere and there is never a feeling of being "on the spot" or uneasy.  Dee is kind, caring and compassionate and works with you to find a path that's best and help you achieve the goals you set forth!  In fact...I sat down with her to talk about a one on one session at Bluewater Wellness...take a listen.

As I read the picture behind us - "When "I" is replaced by "We", even illness becomes wellness."  That is such amazing advise and something to live by.  There is strength in numbers when it comes to things that just seem unattainable.  You know my past and being part of a certain "anonymous" group back then in conjunction with the one on one counselling I worked on helped me immensely.  Today, the same thing holds true.  There's a hand to grab on to and a better way to feel better.  My thanks to Bluewater Wellness for exceeding any and all expectations I had going in.  If you'd like to know more, click on the logo below to visit their website.

Happens to the best of us!  Becky caught the crud last week and we were unable to film.  HOWEVER!  She's not going to let it get her down this week.

Episode 42 is all about your dining room chair!  Well, not exactly as your dining room chair may lend itself to the necessity for working out from time to time if you are just sitting on it eating.  This time, you're on it, around it balancing with it...you name it.  

Grab your seat!  It's time to work out!   

 Whew!  That was quick!  Great job! Don't forget!  Becky is available at The Gym..The Muskegon Country Club and as a one on on coach for personal training!  You can click on the photo below to check out her website for more information!  

We've worked with The Alzheimer's Association for a while now, because, well, it's one of those things that sooner of later most all of us are going to have to face.  It's like any of our other plagues of the day....cancer, obesity, diabetes..sooner or later, we're all going to know someone who's had to deal with it.  It's a scary disease and unfortunately, there is no way to treat it yet.  But the work goes on.  

We've talked about some of the events to raise a few bucks to help, we've also helped let you know when world renowned speakers are coming to town to help you get the facts about Alzheimer's Disease and that they we'll put their words in the strictest of layman's terms so you can understand what's been done...where treatment is heading and how you as a family member or patient can best deal with all of the conditions that are attached to this dreadful diagnosis. Learn More About The Longest Day

We're proud to help share the stories and we've upped our efforts this year.  We welcomed Kayla Meyers back to The Muskegon Channel recently to talk about what 2018 will bring for Muskegon.  Some of which its the same, some of which has a little different twist on it, but the mission remains...information, action and awareness. Take a listen to our chat from Senior Resources the other day for a little preview of what 2018 will be in the Muskegon area in regards to The Alzheimer's Association activities.  It's going to be a busy year!

It's something that strikes a very personal chord.  As we've talked, hearing my dad talk about my grandfather forgetting who he was and asking him to "go find Pete".....it literally sent shock waves through me.  The unbearable thought of a lifetime of memory being wasted and the fact there is nothing we can do about it....horrific.  I have upped my willingness to help and I hope you will too.  To learn more about the Alzheimer's Association and do your part, click on the photo below and learn more.  We'll see and hear more throughout 2018 from The Alzheimer's Association, count on it.

40!!  Hard to believe we've done 40 episodes of Fit and Healthy with Becky on The Muskegon Channel!  It's been a great way to help spread some health and fitness around town and a great way to show folks that a healthier and more active lifestyle doesn't have to come with the drudgery attached to a fitness journey alone.  Becky has found a way to show you what works, keep it fun and bring it right to your living room if you want to use it.  Of course, if it leads to more, great...can't hurt to get out and get in better shape can it?

Becky is a certified personal trainer. She works out of The Gym in North Muskegon as well as The Muskegon Country Club.  She offers group and one on one training and her commitment to her clients is unmatched.  On The Muskegon Channel, she's our point person to get you moving and keep the blood pumping.  Her advise is always the same.  Before you start this or any exercise program, check with your doctor, warm up, stretch out and drink plenty of water! 

Today, she's breaking out the stair stepper!  Let's get to Episode 40!

Boom!  40!  Our sincere thanks to Becky for her commitment to your health and giving you the chance to get in shape with The Muskegon Channel!  Now, if you like the start...why not take the next step?  You can get a hold of Becky through her website.  Click on the photo below to learn more.  Or, stop into our "home gym".  Mary Switzer runs The Gym located on The Four Corners in North Muskegon.  It's a relaxing atmosphere that's got more of a club feel than a typical gym.  You'll love the people and the atmosphere.

Sun's out and it's time to start shaping up those legs!!  Well, the sun's out for the moment BUT...that's reason enough to get going on it!  It's going to be a busy Summer around here with the beach, the festivals and fairs...all the outdoor activity and everything you like to do...and to do all of that...you'll need your legs in good shape!

Becky is a personal trainer at The Gym in North Muskegon as well as the Muskegon Country Club....she also offers personalized coaching to help you get in the best shape of your life....she's also got another side.  Becky is an undercover fitness superhero.  Don't go around telling everyone though, word gets out on something like that...we're going to lose her to the networks.

Get yourself warmed up, stretched out and ready to go!  Here comes episode 39 of Fit and Healthy with Becky from The Gym in North Muskegon!

Now that you're on the right path, think about a great finish to the winter season with one more round of swing dance lessons with Becky at the Muskegon Country Club!  Membership is not required to join the class and those that have participated in the previous months have had a great time.  Some activity complimented with some new people to meet and have fun with...and some great new moves to show off at the next party!  Get the details below about the March swing dance lessons with Becky.