Using a holistic approach to create sustainable changes

While New Year’s Resolutions are nice, sometimes, you need a bigger plan
By Dr. Matthew Lapp, Columnist, The Times
At this time of year, many people begin to contemplate their health. Some of us may even choose to make resolutions to lose weight, exercise more, or give up unhealthy habits. However, the truth is that only about 46% of people who actually make resolutions follow through with...
Reflecting on 2012 and creating a plan for success in 2013

Defining success is often the first step to reaching it
By Dr. Matthew Lapp, Columnist, The Times
I recently had the opportunity to speak with a group of high school students at CASH during National Education Week. A former teacher of mine contacted me, as well as several former Coatesville Graduates, and asked that we speak about “success.” I was honored to have the opportunity to speak with...
County to observe World AIDS Day

Residents reminded to take advantage of free testing
The Chester County Health Department offers free, confidential HIV testing at the Government Services Center.
In conjunction with World AIDS Day on Dec. 1, Chester County officials are urging residents to take advantage of opportunities for confidential, free testing.
The Chester County Health Department is partnering with Family Services of Chester...
County offers residents shot at avoiding flu

Free clinic to be held during National Influenza Vaccination Week
Free flu vaccines will be offered Dec. 3 at the Chester County Library during National Influenza Vaccination Week.
Chester County plans to observe National Influenza Vaccination Week – Dec. 2 through Dec. 8 – appropriately: It’s offering a free flu vaccine clinic.
In an effort to highlight the importance of obtaining the vaccine...
Cultivating gratitude

Remembering the things you are thankful for can make you healthier and happier
By Dr. Matthew Lapp, Columnist, The Times
During this season of Thanksgiving, it’s the perfect time to pause and recognize all that we can be grateful for. In just a few weeks, many families will sit down around a Thanksgiving day feast and count their blessings one by one. In doing so, each person has an opportunity...
The language of wellness

Sometimes, it takes the right words to get the right results
By Dr. Matthew Lapp, Columnist, The Times
In previous articles, we’ve discussed the overall concept of wellness and some strategies for developing greater well-being in your life. Some of these concepts may have been hard to grasp.
So this week, I’d like to turn our attention to something that everyone is familiar with–language. ...
Program will encourage participants to kick butts

Free smoking-cessation regimen begins Tuesday
Breathe easier. Save money. Improve your longevity. These are among myriad reasons to quit smoking, and now ChesPenn Health Services is adding another: a free program to assist in breaking the habit.
The program, Freedom from Smoking, begins Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at the ChesPenn Health Center, 744 E. Lincoln Highway in Coatesville. Supported by the Health...
Breathing for your health

Taking a closer look at simple way to help improve your health and well-being
By Dr. Matthew Lapp, Columnist, The Times
Take control of your well-being one breath at a time.
When was the last time that you thought about your breath? I presume that if you’re reading this article you’re also breathing, but it’s a process that we often take for granted. Now that I’ve directed your attention...
To stay healthy, give it your best shot

Free flu vaccines will be available Tuesday at city health center
To increase access to good health, free flu shots will be available for community members – regardless of whether they have insurance – on Tuesday at the Coatesville Center for Community Health from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The shots will be provided by the Chester County Health Department for those who are unable to travel...
What is wellness?

It takes thought, planning and maybe even some changes to live a healthy life
By Dr. Matthew Lapp, MS, DC, Columnist, The Times
If you aren’t sick, does that mean you’re healthy? How about if you aren’t depressed? Does that mean you’re happy? For most people, the answer to these questions would be “no.” However, how often do we base our state of health on symptoms, or lack thereof?
Our...