Akira Medical Imaging Wellness Blog

The Ultimate January Reset: Beating the Blues, Boosting Immunity, and Why Your Deductible Loves You

Written by Akira Medical Imaging + Wellness | Jan 20, 2026 2:41:13 PM

Why is January actually the best time for a health check-up? Let’s be honest: January is the "Monday" of the year. But it is also the smartest time to handle your healthcare business. Why? Because scheduling screenings now allows you to attack your annual insurance deductible immediately. Instead of waiting until December, you start paying down that deductible early, meaning your insurance coverage kicks in sooner for the rest of the year (Source: Verywell Health). Think of it as "eating your vegetables" financially—get it done now so you can enjoy the dessert later.

At Akira Medical Imaging + Wellness, we are here to help you navigate this "January Reset." We aren't just a medical facility; we are your partners in empowerment, clarity, and getting your year sorted without the stress.

Is Your Brain in "Power Saving Mode"? (Combating the Winter Blues)

If you feel like you want to curl up in a blanket burrito until April, you aren't alone. As the days get shorter, your brain’s serotonin (the happy chemical) and melatonin (the sleep chemical) can get out of whack. It’s essentially "Power Saving Mode" for humans, medically known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Women are significantly more likely than men to experience the winter blues. But since hibernating isn't an option for busy women, here is how to keep your battery charged:

  • Seek Out the Light: Your brain craves sunlight to regulate mood. Many women find using a light therapy box in the morning helpful to mimic the effects of natural sunlight.

  • Prioritize Movement: We know the couch is calling, but movement releases endorphins. Even a 20-minute walk counts.

  • Stabilize Your Energy: Comfort food feels like a hug, but the sugar crash is a slap in the face. Stick to protein and veggies to stop the energy roller coaster.

  • The "Sunshine Vitamin" Hack: Since we live in the chilly north and are bundled up like marshmallows, our skin can’t make Vitamin D from the sun as efficiently in winter.
     
    • The Science: Studies suggest that maintaining adequate levels of Vitamin D and omgea-3s may support mood regulation.

    • The Strategy: Fatty fish (salmon) and eggs are great dietary sources. While the National Academies recommend 600-800 IU daily for adults depending on age, we strongly advise you speak with your health care provider to determine if a supplement is right for you and what dosage works best for your body.

 

Winter Wellness Strategy (Immunity & Nutrition)

Your immune system works hard to protect you, but the winter months can be taxing. Rather than waiting to get sick, think of this season as a time for proactive maintenance.

To support your body’s natural defenses during cold and flu season:

  • Nutrient Support: Foods rich in Zinc and Vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and leafy greens, are often recommended to support immune function.

  • Sleep is Maintenance: Your body repairs itself while you dream. Aiming for 7-9 hours of quality rest is one of the best things you can do for your health.

  • Internal Strength: Omega-3 fatty acids are known to help support the skin barrier from the inside out, which is your first line of defense against the elements.

The "River System" of Hydration

We know drinking cold water when it’s freezing outside sounds unappealing. But you can think of your body's hydration system like a river:

When water levels drop, the flow becomes sluggish. Cold weather acts like a drought, evaporating moisture and drying out the riverbanks (your skin). Just as a river needs a steady flow to stay clear and moving, your body needs consistent hydration to help flush out waste and keep your system running smoothly.

Winter-Proofing Your Skin

That "dry riverbank" feeling is medically known as Transepidermal Water Loss. According to the Cleveland Clinic, when your skin barrier is damaged by dry, waterless air, it can leave you vulnerable to irritation.

If your skin feels tight or stings when you apply products, it may be a sign to increase hydration—both with water intake and protective skincare—to keep your barrier intact.

 

Why Wait for the "December Scramble"? (Preventive Screening)

We see it every year: The "December Scramble." Many patients realize they have benefits to use, and try to book appointments at the exact same time.

Do yourself a favor and skip the end-of-year stress. Scheduling your Akira services in January is the ultimate proactive move.

  • Mammograms & Genius™ 3D Mammography: Regular screening is non-negotiable for breast health. Get it done now and cross it off the list.

  • Bone Density (DEXA) Scan: Winter means ice, and ice means slip-and-fall season. If you’re over 50, knowing your bone strength is vital.

  • Ultrasounds (Pelvic & Breast): If you’ve been "watching and waiting" on a concern, let’s take a look now so you don't spend 2024 worrying about it.

You have two options: you can struggle through winter, or you can embrace the "January Reset." By prioritizing your mental wellness, staying hydrated, and scheduling your screenings before the world catches up, you take control of your health.