a smiling, warmly dressed couple snowshoeing along a river, with a city skyline in the backgroundTHIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES
Cold weather fitness: Safety tips for exercising outdoors
Frigid temperatures can discourage even the most motivated exercisers. Without motivation, it's tempting to pack away your workout gear for the winter. But you don't have to let cold weather spell the end of your fitness routine. Try these tips for exercising during cold weather to stay safe and warm.

Health savings accounts
Health savings accounts are like personal savings accounts, but the money in them is used to pay for health care expenses. You — not your employer or insurance company — own and control the money in the account. Get answers to some common questions to help you decide if a health savings account is right for you.

EXPERT ANSWERS
How does Fluzone High-Dose differ from other flu vaccines?
Fluzone High-Dose is an injected flu vaccine formulated for people age 65 years and older. In response to a regular flu shot, older people produce 50 to 75 percent fewer antibodies, which protect against the vaccine antigens, than do younger adults. Learn more from Dr. James Steckelberg, a Mayo Clinic infectious diseases expert.

What causes bladder obstruction in men?
Bladder outlet obstruction can cause urine to back up in your system, leading to difficulty urinating and other uncomfortable urinary symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is important to prevent serious problems. Learn about the causes of bladder obstruction in men from Dr. Erik Castle, a Mayo Clinic urologist.

PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
Poor color vision
Video: Cochlear implants
Cervical dystonia

HEALTHY RECIPES
Butternut squash risotto
Gingery chicken noodle soup
Chicken Parmesan
Apricot almond crisp

HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK
Reduce tension through muscle relaxation
Progressive muscle relaxation can reduce muscle tension from stress. First, find a quiet place free from interruption. Tense each muscle group for about five seconds, and then relax for 30 seconds. Repeat before moving to the next muscle group. Practice this technique any time you feel stress.

Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover more healthy lifestyle topics at mayoclinic.org.

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