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Wellness & Health · Photo story

Six small ways to feel better this fall

Good health is built on small, everyday habits. Here are six worth trying this season, with free help close to home in Connecticut.

By the CT Info Press staff · Oct. 24, 2026

Four hikers of different ages rest on a rock ledge above a valley of red and gold fall foliage, with a white church steeple and farmhouses below
Peak foliage makes fall one of the best times of year to get outdoors in Connecticut.Illustration · CT Info Press

You don't need a gym membership or a big plan to take care of yourself. A short walk, a plate of local vegetables, a quick blood pressure check and a few quiet minutes can all add up. This photo story is the first in a new CT Info Press series on wellness and health.

  1. Walkers of all ages, one with a dog and one with walking poles, on a misty riverside path lined with fall foliage
    A morning walk on a riverside path in peak foliage season.Illustration · CT Info Press

    Every step counts

    Take a walk

    Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, according to the CDC. That works out to about 22 minutes a day, and a brisk walk counts. Splitting it into shorter walks works, too.

    Connecticut has more than 140 state parks and forests, plus town greens, rail trails and riverwalks. Bring a friend, a dog or a podcast, and dress in bright colors as the days get shorter.

    Try thisTake a 10-minute walk after dinner tonight. Add a few minutes each week.

  2. A farmer hands a paper bag of apples to a shopper at an autumn market stall piled with squash, kale, carrots and corn
    Fall is peak season for apples, squash and greens at Connecticut farm stands and markets.Illustration · CT Info Press

    Local produce is at its best in October

    Eat what's in season

    Apples, pears, winter squash, kale, carrots and Brussels sprouts are all in season in Connecticut right now, and many farm stands and markets run into November. A simple goal: fill half your plate with vegetables and fruit at most meals.

    Many Connecticut farmers markets accept SNAP benefits, and some match what you spend so your dollars go further. Ask at the market information table.

    Try thisRoast a tray of squash, carrots and onions on Sunday and use it in lunches all week.

  3. A nurse in a face mask checks the blood pressure of an older man at a library table
    Free blood pressure checks are often offered at pharmacies, libraries, senior centers and community health centers.Illustration · CT Info Press

    High blood pressure often has no symptoms

    Know your numbers

    Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, and many don't know it. Because it usually has no symptoms, the only way to know is to get checked. A normal reading is under 120/80.

    Community health centers across Connecticut see patients regardless of insurance or ability to pay, and many pharmacies have free self-check machines. Open enrollment for 2027 health coverage is underway now, too. Here's how to get free enrollment help.

    Try thisWrite your reading and the date on your phone or a calendar, and bring it to your next appointment.

  4. Older adults in a sunny community center raise their arms overhead during a seated chair yoga class
    Chair yoga and balance classes are a gentle way to build strength and steadiness at any age.Illustration · CT Info Press

    Strength and balance protect against falls

    Move gently, stay steady

    About one in four adults 65 and older falls each year, and falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults. Gentle strength and balance work, like chair yoga or tai chi, can help lower that risk.

    Many town senior centers and parks and recreation departments offer low-cost or free classes. Call your town hall or senior center to see what's on the schedule.

    Try thisWhile the kettle boils, hold the counter and rise up on your toes 10 times.

  5. A young woman writes in a journal on a wooden bench beside a still pond reflecting fall foliage
    A few quiet minutes outdoors can be a reset for body and mind.Illustration · CT Info Press

    Shorter days can take a toll

    Make time for your mind

    Clocks fall back on Sunday, Nov. 1, and darker evenings can affect mood, sleep and energy. Getting outside in daylight, keeping a regular sleep schedule and staying in touch with friends and family all help.

    If you or someone you know is struggling, help is free and available 24/7. Call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or dial 211 to reach 211 Connecticut for local mental health and support services.

    Try thisSpend 10 minutes outside before noon, even on cloudy days.

  6. A father and two children chop vegetables together in a home kitchen with a pot of brown rice on the stove
    Cooking together is a chance to try new foods and spend time as a family.Illustration · CT Info Press

    Shared meals are good for the whole family

    Cook together

    Kids who help cook are often more willing to try new foods. Give everyone a job, from washing vegetables to stirring the pot, and keep it simple: a whole grain, a vegetable and a protein.

    If groceries are tight, help is available in every county. Find food pantries and meal programs near you, and check whether your family qualifies for SNAP or WIC.

    Try thisPick one night a week as a family cooking night and let the kids choose the vegetable.

Free health help in Connecticut

  • 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineCall or text 988, any time, day or night.
  • 211 ConnecticutDial 211 for local health, housing, food and mental health services.
  • Health coverageOpen enrollment through Access Health CT runs through Jan. 15. Get free help.
  • Medicine cleanoutDrop off unused or expired medicines safely. Find a take-back site.

This story is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk with your doctor or another qualified health professional before starting a new exercise or eating plan.

About the photos: The images in this story are illustrations, not photographs of real people or places. Have a wellness story or photo from your community? Send it to us.