Be Well Magazine | Issue 06 Spring 2026

ISSUE 06 | SPRING 2026

M A K I N G H E A LT H P O S S I B L E

Including CA R D I O M E TA B O L I C H E A LT H STARTING IN YOUR GARDEN | 06

TA K E A H I K E! EXPLORE BEAUTIFUL HANCOCK COUNTY | 10

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT MICHAEL JACK | 14

CHOOSING PROPER GEAR STAY PREPARED WHILE HIKING | 18

P L U S: RECIPES INSPIRED BY INDIANA’S LOCAL PLANT LIFE

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: MICHAEL JACK See page 12

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See What’s INSIDE This Issue...

PG. 5

A W O R D F R O M J O E L H U N G AT E BE WELL... BE ACTIVE!

PG. 6

C A R D I O M E TA B O L I C H E A LT H G O O D H E A LT H C A N S TA R T I N YOUR GARDEN C A R D I O M E TA B O L I C H E A LT H | P G . 8

PG. 10

TA K E A H I K E !

EXPLORE BEAUTIFUL

A Healthier You Starts In Your Garden

HANCOCK COUNTY PG. 14

M E M B E R S P O T L I G H T: MICHAEL JACK H O W H E FA I L E D R E T I R E M E N T A N D F O U N D H I S B E S T H E A LT H

PG. 18

CHOOSING PROPER GEAR S O Y O U C A N H I K E S A F E LY

PG. 20

SPRING RECIPES INSPIRED BY INDIANA’S LOCAL PLANT LIFE

TA K E A S P R I N G H I K E | P G . 1 0

Explore Beautiful Hancock County

SPRING RECIPES | PG. 20

Inspired By Local Indiana’s Plant Life

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DOG MOM. ENDOMETRIOSIS. FLORIST.

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The Hancock Health network surrounds Sarah with care as unique as her. We’ll do the same for you and your family, too. See how we can help make your best health possible at HancockHealth.org/explore.

Spring has a way of reminding us of

At Hancock Health, we’ve spent

the gift of health — how easy it is

years rethinking what it means to

to take for granted when we don’t

truly support well-being and have

have it, how powerful it is to unlock

worked diligently to align our health

experiences in life and with those we

system around your needs and those

love, and how, whether we know it or

of our community. We know that

not, we lay the foundation for the

better outcomes don’t come from

amount of opportunity and adventure

more fragmented solutions or more

unlocked by good health with every

complicated systems. They come from

decision we make.

integrated well-being solutions that

It’s no surprise that this version of health doesn’t happen exclusively in a doctor’s office.

It happens in those small, consistent J O E L H U N G AT E A S S O C I AT E V I C E P R E S I D E N T, S T R AT E G Y & I N T E G R AT E D W E L L- B E I N G H A N C O C K H E A LT H In this issue, we explore a special

choices we make every day. Getting outside. Moving our bodies. Sharing a meal. Tending a garden. Taking that walk we almost talked ourselves out of.

make it easier to “say yes and stay yes” to the behaviors that build the best version of you, in the rhythms of everyday life.

That’s why this fantastic issue is centered around the outdoors. Not as an escape, but as a return to movement, to connection, and to the kind of lifestyle that supports a

This issue of BeWell is an invitation

happier, healthier, more productive,

focus on small, consistent choices to

to return to those moments and to

and fulfilling life. And conversely, we’ll

get outside and move our bodies, and

rediscover how powerful they really are.

explore how health has a habit of

to help make that process fun and less

Too often, we think about health

naturally unlocking more adventure

intimidating.

as something complex, clinical, or

in your life — something we could all

out of reach. But the truth is, and

use more of.

the data shows, that the most

You’ll meet Michael Jack, whose story

meaningful changes happen in the

is a powerful reminder that it’s never

simplest ways. A hike through one

too late to rewrite what health looks

of Hancock County’s gorgeous trails

like. You’ll find practical ways to get

can reset both your body and your

moving, explore, and even rethink how

mind. Preparing a meal inspired by

you approach food this season.

what’s growing locally this season can reconnect us to the rhythms that support long-term well-being.

These aren’t just nice ideas. They’re

And remember—just by taking that first step towards better health you put yourself further ahead than you think.

foundational to how we think about health. And how we build momentum toward a better, healthier tommorrow.

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Have you ever spent hours in your

physical activity and burns about

garden digging, pulling weeds,

150-200 calories in 30 minutes.

planting, and been exhausted

Think of it like a gym right in your

afterwards? That’s because

own backyard!

gardening is a great workout!

Not only does it build flexibility and muscle mass, but you can also reap benefits of better cardiometabolic health.

If you haven’t heard of cardiometabolic health, now is the time to get acquainted with this buzz word. Cardiometabolic health refers to how your heart, blood vessels and metabolism work together to create an overall picture of your heart function.

We are used to assessing risk via cholesterol and blood pressure, but the latest testing paints a much broader - and more holistic - picture of your health by taking into account blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, weight and fat distribution, and health history.

DIG IN TO BETTER CARDIOMETABOLIC HEALTH THROUGH GARDENING

But the exercise - or “cardio” component of cardiometabolic health isn’t the only one of importance. Gardening delivers many other benefits as well.

LOWER STRESS LEVELS Any outdoor activity has the potential to lower overall stress, which is a huge marker for cardiovascular health. Through a cascade of hormones, stress itself causes a fight or flight response, which is meant to help our bodies during times of crisis. Think: a boost in blood pressure, blood flow shunted to the limbs for quick movement, increased heart rate, decreased energy going toward digestion and other organ system function.

Getting into your garden and being surrounded by the quiet of nature, bird song and fresh air signals safety to your body and

While formal exercise via

erases the need for a fight or

cardio and strength training is

flight response, even if you are

a great way to ensure better

working hard. This reduces cortisol

cardiometabolic health, it is

levels, blood pressure and even

important to remember that some

your body’s level of inflammation.

of the activities we weave into our everyday lives are also reliable ways of maintaining that stamina.

Gardening is a low-to-moderate intensity, multi-component

Why is this important for cardiometabolic health? Stress impacts every single aspect of your body, including markers for

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heart health, metabolism, blood

of your gut microbiome has a huge

sugar, weight and more. In short,

impact on the overall health of

the more well managed your

your body, including major organs

stress, the better your overall

like your heart and brain. Why?

cardiometabolic health.

Because these friendly bacteria in your gut are responsible for

BETTER NUTRITION On average, gardeners tend to consume more fruits and

that help to manage inflammation, blood pressure and cholesterol.

vegetables, especially if they are

A healthy, fiber-rich diet helps

home grown. Diet will always be an

keep your microbiome in balance.

important aspect of overall health,

But there is one more thing that

and we are beginning to have a

gardening does to give you a

better understanding of how

boost: it gets your hands dirty.

blood sugar impacts heart health.

Exposure to the microbes in soil

High blood sugar, which isn’t only

can help your own microbiome and

relegated to those with diabetes,

even boost your immune system.

causes chronic inflammation in the

We are meant to touch earth,

body. This inflammation impacts

dig in the soil, plant and extract

LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol as well

food. For those seeking balance

as the flexibility of veins and

in our modern world, gardening is

arteries, plaque build up and more.

a great way to honor the ancient

One thing that can slow digestion and help those rapid blood sugar spikes is fiber. And that is something that is abundant in all fruits and vegetables. So, no matter if you are gardening kale, broccoli, tomatoes or green beans, the fiber you are growing in your garden can directly contribute to your cardiometabolic health, especially if you consume multiple servings a day.

GUT HEALTH Another healthy way gardening can impact your metabolism is through your gut health. The health

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producing many of the metabolites

ecosystems that are contained within our bodies.

Cardiometabolic assessments take your whole body into account, without sidestepping important markers that are not traditionally considered when it comes to heart health. By getting out into your garden this spring, you’re not only ensuring a beautiful summer full of blooms, but also helping to boost your own health!

Check out these local plant nurseries for beautiful additions to your spring, summer or fall garden!

- Tuttle Orchards, located at 5717 N 300 W in Greenfield - Sunnyside Greenhouses, located at 3185 E 700 N in Greenfield - Wells Nursery, located at 3710 US Hwy 40 in Greenfield

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Winter is over and perhaps you, like many Hancock County residents, are feeling the urge to get outdoors more.

It makes sense, after all spring is a beautiful time for buds and blooms all over the Midwest. Whether you prefer ambling through a garden, going on a bike ride with your family or heading on a hike to be surrounded by nature, you will find a place to enjoy the season right here in Hancock County.

BECKENHOLDT FAMILY PARKS AND TRAILS Beckenholdt is a 75-acre preserve featuring two wetlands, a reforestation area, native prairie and grasslands, a native tree walk and fishing pond. Rover’s Run dog park is also located here along with a Greenfield Bike Share rack and the Beckenholdt Pavilion and Amphitheater.

With both paved and unpaved trails, this is a versatile place to take in spring blooms and returning fauna.

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RILEY PARK AND TRAIL IN GREENFIELD Located in downtown Greenfield, Riley Park boasts 40 acres of open, grassy areas, Brandywine Creek, athletic courts, skate park, a pump track, a splash pad, aquatics center, picnic areas, playgrounds and paved walking areas.

Enjoy a beautiful walk over and along Brandywine Creek as well as a picnic lunch or time spent enjoying a game of pick up with some friends!

HANCOCK GATEWAY PARK Hancock Health’s Gateway facility is located in a mixeduse park alongside commercial, aging-in-place residences, retail, restaurants and multi-family developments. Within this community is a 3.7-mile trail loop featuring a pond, benches and tables with umbrellas all for public use. It is handicap accessible and a gorgeous place to boost your health and wellbeing with a spring walk!

MT. VERNON COMMUNITY GARDENS This beautiful community garden offers plenty of chances to relax and take in the miracle of life’s return after a cold winter. Located inside Veteran’s Memorial Park, it includes a walking trail, community garden plots, plenty of places for kids to play, various sports facilities and a fishing lake.

HORNWOOD NATURE PRESERVE With a beautiful trail system, campground and plenty of wildlife, this nature preserve situated next to Little Brandywine Creek is the perfect place to relax and let your cares drift away. Bring your walking shoes and a picnic to this 40 acre natural habitat and take in the sights of spring! For bird watchers, enjoy the newly installed feeders and viewing station as well as events with the Greenfield Birders club, with walks available April through October.

BUCK CREEK TRAIL IN CUMBERLAND Accessed through the trail head at Lyon’s Park and other neighborhood connections, this three-mile paved trail is an excellent setting for a springtime stroll, jog or even bike ride. It gently meanders past the beautiful Buck Creek and not only has lovely scenery, but also a stunning mural.

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PENNSY TRAIL IN GREENFIELD Pennsy is a 5.5-mile trail through Greenfield that offers many amenities. On your walk, jog or bike ride, you can enjoy an art park, a bike share located at Depot Street Park, exercise equipment, a playground and accessible restroom facilities.

Check out one of the run clubs or other fun familyfocused events that create a community around trail use. Dogs are allowed, so make sure your furry friend gets to enjoy the beautiful spring weather!

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“Where?” That is how Michael Jack says most people respond when he talks about leading photography workshops in Palouse, a beautiful region in Washington state known for its rolling hills and striking photographic opportunities. Is he a photographer by trade?

No, he just, as he says, “flunked retirement.”

At a time when most people are slowing down, Jack is speeding up. The 83-yearold McCordsville Wellness Center member has been active his entire life, which may account for the fact that his Garmin watch tells him he has a physiological age of 60.

“Lies like that keep me going,” chuckles Jack.

As a young kid, he picked up basketball—and hasn’t looked back since. From participating in athletics all through school and college to getting involved in handball, racketball, running and tennis in his adult years, Jack hasn’t stopped moving. Until 2008, he was working in upper level executive positions in both finance and HR, fulfilling 60-75 hour work weeks. Racketball clubs and daily runs kept his sanity—and health—intact.

The slow life of retirement didn’t agree with him. He found himself taking an interim CFO position for a nonprofit, participating in CPA peer review, taking leadership roles in both photography and car clubs (he is currently the Vice President of the Audi Indiana Chapter of the North American Audi Club), leading photography workshops, instructing at a high performance race track and— believe it or not—more.

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JACK FOUND HIS PLACE AT THE HANCOCK HEALTH MCCORDSVILLE WELLNESS CENTER But what has REALLY kept him going is his membership at the McCordsville Wellness Center, where he enjoys regular workouts, camaraderie and the knowledgeable and friendly staff.

Before Covid, Jack was a member at a different gym. Although he enjoyed the group classes there, the facilities were not up to par. Once Covid bans were lifted and he was able to return to his exercise routine, he made the switch. “The [Hancock Wellness Center] facilities were well kept, clean and everyone was respectful of cleanliness and masks. Both the staff and the trainers are great.”

Jack has enjoyed getting to know other members, settling into a fun routine with the guys in the Breakfast Group, who go out to Lincoln Square Pancake house after their workouts once a month. He gravitates toward cycle classes, a lower impact workout for his joints following two knee replacements six years ago, attending about five times per week. Jack has also worked with the personal trainers on staff to find a weight lifting routine that has kept him engaged, strong and steady into his 80’s.

TAKE IT FROM AN 83-YEAR-OLD GYM RAT Living an active lifestyle pays off, especially with age. “I would tell

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everyone to keep moving,” says Jack, “If you have stiffness or pain, you may need to compensate, but find ways to keep moving.” Indeed, movement has been shown, in study after study, to be one of the top factors for having a higher quality of life as you age.

Sometimes, getting started can be difficult, but Jack reminds his fellow Wellness Center members of all ages to, “Do what you have to do to push yourself to stay physically fit.”

As for Jack, he enjoys and is grateful for his health and, as anyone who has met him can attest, he does not sound like he has any plans to stop moving anytime soon. He contributes his outlook to his physically active lifestyle.

“I am a long way from depressed. I enjoy life. My wife is not in the greatest of health, but we enjoy travelling. I am very positive and so far nobody has told me I have cognitive decline. The standing joke in our family is who is going to take my car keys away, because I still love to drive.” Jack adds that “just a couple of days ago I drove Route 66 from Springfield, IL to Oklahoma City, OK. I had a meeting in Oklahoma City and I figured I may as well enjoy the drive and some photographic opportunities.”

Whether it is his hobby of photography or the energy he has for his exercise routine, Jack’s zest for life is an inspiration. Let this story be a reminder to all of us to stay active, find the things we love to do and go great distances to make them happen, even if it leaves others asking “where?”

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After a long winter hibernation, stepping outdoors into Spring’s variable weather can feel at once invigorating and intimidating. As the sun warms and our bodies crave more sunlight and activity, nature feels like an irresistible pull.

But that time outdoors may be cut short if you get too cold, too hotor lack the proper gear to get you through your walk, hike or bike ride.

This is the only time of year you might need both a tank top and a wool hat, so follow these simple tips to ensure you actually get to enjoy the great outdoors this season!

BUILT FOR HIKING IN THE MIDWEST SPRINGS If you are headed out into a heavily wooded area or enjoying the parks and trails of Hancock County, here are some common sense tips to help you beat the heat AND the cold that comes with the fickle Midwest weather.

FOLLOW THE THREE-LAYER RULE Because the weather of spring can go from warm and sunny to cool and rainy in an instant, it is important to layer your clothing appropriately. The Three-Layer Rule is an easy trick to remember, stressing the benefits of a base, middle and outer layer.

BASE LAYER: Your base layer should be thin and breathable.

Think: cotton tee, light long sleeve shirt or even a turtle neck,

depending on the forecast. Merino wool also works great here and has a moisture wicking quality for when you are more active.

traction as you will be on different types of terrain.

Pavement can be slippery when wet, but muddy trails also offer a chance to take a tumble. In MIDDLE LAYER: This is going to hiking boots, look for deep lugs give you a bit of insulation without and sticky rubber compounds to bulk that you can remove when it handle the mud. For running and gets warmer throughout the day. A walking shoes, check that they cardigan, pullover or light sweater have traction on the bottom is great here. of the soles.

OUTER LAYER: This layer protects • Quick-Drying Materials: you from the elements, especially Lightweight, synthetic mesh if rain or wind are in the forecast. dries out quicker than heavier A light parka or rain coat works leather when it gets wet. If you well here. Outer layers can also are looking for hiking boots, include scarves and hats when lighter weight options may be necessary, but we are crossing our more quick to dry. fingers that this Spring, you will be Using the old scout motto “Be able to get away without that!

Prepared” is a great reminder when heading outside in the SPLURGE ON THE PROPER FOOTWEAR spring. Make sure to check A great pair of boots or shoes, weather forecasts for where you along with some merino wool or will be actively spending your time. moisture-wicking socks, will help Bring along some water and extra you feel more comfortable in the snacks and pack your layers if elements this season. What you you don’t need them right away. need will depend on your feet and activity levels. However, there Most of all, enjoy yourself as you emerge from winter hibernation are a few things to keep in mind, and step into the beauty of especially when the weather can another Midwest Spring! be a bit finicky: • Waterproofing: Gore-Tex (GTX) is a waterproof membrane found in many of today’s high performance clothing and footwear. If you plan to hit the trails, it might be a good option so that your feet stay warm and dry.

• Traction: Running, biking or hiking require different levels of

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SPRING RECIPES INSPIRED BY INDIANA’S LOCAL PLANT LIFE Mother Nature’s dining table is one full of bounty and beauty. Even just stepping into your own backyard, you will likely find a vast variety of plants — some that are meant to be eaten by us and some that aren’t. Foraging has become a hobby for many Hoosiers, as we seek to reconnect with nature through our own nourishment.

However, foraging is an art in and of itself and it isn’t one to jump into without the proper training and understanding of the plant life around you. Most of us have lost the ability to tell a poisonous plant or mushroom from an edible one. Not only that, as we head back to nature, we need to be aware that we share that space with many other animals, all of whom don’t have grocery stores like we do.

If you want to reconnect to the land this Spring, but haven’t got a clue about how to forage, start by cooking up these recipes inspired by our wild plant and animal friends living right outside our backdoors.

SIMPLE, BRAISED DANDELION GREENS This delicious recipe brings one of the most healing plants you can find right to your dinner table. If you know the land you are on and there has been no pesticide use, you may be able to grab your own dandelion greens — just make sure to get them before they flower! Otherwise, you can find them up at specialty grocery stores, such as Whole Foods Market.

Dandelion helps boost liver health and is great for aiding in the detox processes already happening in the body during Spring’s thaw. This simple recipe can be served alongside your favorite meat or fish for a well-rounded and super healthy meal!

HERE IS WHAT YOU WILL NEED: • One large bunch of dandelion greens, chopped into one-inch pieces • 1 Tbsp salt • 1 Tbsp bacon grease or cooking oil • 1 small onion, diced • 1 large clove garlic • ½ cup chicken stock • 1 fresh lemon • 1 Tbsp olive oil

DIRECTIONS: First, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the salt and the dandelion greens and blanch vegetables for about a minute. Remove with a slotted spoon and squeeze out any excess moisture.

Heat a pan on medium and add the bacon grease or cooking oil. Next sautee the onions until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and saute for a minute.

Add dandelion greens to the pan and allow to cook with onions and garlic for a minute before adding in the chicken stock.

Turn heat to low and simmer until all of the vegetables are tender. Add more salt if needed and a drizzle of olive oil.

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VEGAN AND GLUTEN FREE CREAMY MUSHROOM AND ASPARAGUS PASTA Mushrooms are a popular topic for many Hoosier

Bring a large pot of water to boil and cook pasta according to package directions.

Bring the heat on the skillet to low and add olive oil and 4 cloves of garlic. Saute 2-3 minutes and remove the skillet from heat and set aside.

foragers. Fungi can be tricky to get right and,

To a blender, add remaining raw garlic, sauteed

with so many different types that are edible and

garlic, vegan cream cheese, almond milk, vegan

poisonous, it is best to stick to those you find

parmesan, nutritional yeast, lemon juice and a

at the grocery until you have received thorough

healthy pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until

instruction. This recipe combines the lovely, earthy

creamy and smooth and mix once more back into

taste of mushrooms with a spring harvest of

the skillet.

asparagus and super creamy penne pasta.

Heat sauce over medium heat until warm,

HERE IS WHAT YOU WILL NEED: For the Pasta: • 1 Tbsp olive oil

stirring frequently. Add cooked, drained pasta and mushroom and asparagus mixture and toss everything to coat.

• 4 cloves garlic, minced • 1 cup thinly sliced baby bella or crimini mushrooms • 1 ½ cups roughly chopped asparagus • 10 oz gluten free penne

For the Sauce: • 2 Tbsp olive oil • 6 cloves garlic, minced (divided) • ¾ cup unsweetened plain almond milk • ¼ cup vegan parmesan cheese • 1 Tbsp nutritional yeast • 1-2 Tbsp lemon juice

DIRECTIONS: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, mushrooms and asparagus.

Saute for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until mushrooms are browned and asparagus is slightly tender. Season with salt and pepper, remove from the skillet and set aside.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT FORAGING SAFELY IN INDIANA? GET STARTED BY CHECKING OUT THESE GROUPS: - Wild Edible Indiana (find them on Facebook and at wildedibleindiana.com) - Persimmon Herb School (persimmonherbschool.com) - Indiana Herbal Center (indianaherbalcenter.com)

801 N State St Greenfield, IN 46140 HancockHealth.org