Jacksonville Memorial Hospital is encouraging west-central Illinoisans to take a hike. Or simply go for a walk.<\/p>\n
Memorial Health\u2019s Mindful Miles Walking Challenge will run during May in communities with Memorial hospitals, according to the network of hospitals.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe encourage everyone to take the challenge and log their miles in May,\u201d said Angela\u00a0Stoltzenburg, Memorial Health\u2019s director of community health. \u201cWalking is one of the most underrated forms of exercise and one of the most powerful things you can do for your physical and mental health. All you need is a pair of comfortable shoes and a little time.\u201d<\/p>\n
Registration for the free walking challenge is available via the Pacer app, during any of the program\u2019s kickoff parties, or by going to\u00a0bit.ly\/3Ocnl3w<\/a>. Those walking at least 50 miles during May\u2019s 31 days \u2014 that\u2019s only 0.62 mile, or a bit more than a half mile, a day \u2014 will receive a free Mindful Miles T-shirt.<\/p>\n Jacksonville Memorial Hospital\u2019s kickoff party will be from 4 to 6\u00a0p.m. April 30 at the hospital\u2019s main entrance. Along with registration, program participants can pick up free giveaways and ask any questions they have about the program.<\/p>\n Kickoff parties will take place at other Memorial hospitals, including 4-6\u00a0p.m. April 30 at Springfield Memorial Hospital\u2019s Edgar J. Curtis Memorial Learning Center, 228 W. Miller St..<\/p>\n