As we head into a new year, Bend Lifestyle magazine took a moment to check in with a few of our trusted local healthcare professionals—people who spend their days helping us feel our best. We asked each provider the same two questions (see below), knowing their answers would reflect both their expertise and the real-life habits that keep them healthy and grounded.
What they shared is thoughtful and practical. Their advice and tips offer a little something for everyone looking to start 2026 feeling healthier.
Questions we asked our providers:
1. If you could share just one healthcare tip with our readers, what would it be?
2. What is your favorite way to manage stress and maintain overall health and fitness for yourself?
Richard Mac Donell, MD – MyMD Personal Medicine
MyMDBend.com | 541.322.6869
My tip is to talk to your doctor! Who better knows your personal struggles and wellness goals and can deliver an evidence-based holistic approach to health? Some may rely on AI and the internet, but the deluge of options quickly becomes overwhelming and difficult to navigate on our own. At MyMD Personal Medicine, our approach is to slow down. You spend time with your personal Board Certified Internal Medicine MD who gets to know your specific healthcare needs. Together you create a comprehensive wellness plan for today and years to come.
Finally, my favorite ways to manage my own stress and maintain overall health and fitness is to exercise, meditate, socialize, dance and play music. And, after all that, I take a nap!
Laura Meaney, DNAP, PMHNP, CRNA – Soul Psychedelic Systems
SoulPsychedelicSystems.com | 541.668.6350
If I could share just one health tip, it would be to not ignore your mental health and well-being. We often put ourselves way down on the priority list, but now is the perfect time to put yourself first and listen to your body. Our bodies always tell us when we are stressed and pushing too hard. Start your day off with a moment to meditate. This simple practice can offer comfort and stability to our mind and bodies.
My favorite way to manage stress is to meditate and work on my own issues that need attention so that I can put my best foot forward. This one practice has made such a difference in my life. Start with a few minutes per day, then work up to 15-20 minutes. By taking some time for ourselves, we can give more to others.
Gerald E. Peters, MD, FAAD, FACMS – Peters Dermatology
PetersDerm.com | 541.323.7546
Protect your skin daily by using a mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Other important tips include washing your face gently twice a day, moisturizing, avoiding smoking, and eating a healthy diet to maintain skin health and function. It’s also essential to perform monthly skin checks and see a dermatologist regularly for professional exams to detect any issues early, including skin cancer.
Maintaining my own health is essential – not just for my well-being, but so I can show up for my patients. I manage stress and stay balanced by keeping things simple and consistent. I make it a priority to eat nutritious meals, take time for daily prayer and unwind with a good book. I also take my exercise outdoors, whether it’s hiking or biking. Being in nature is honestly my favorite form of stress relief.
Denise Hicks, DDS – Central Oregon Dental Esthetics
OregonEsthetics.com | 541.526.5661
My tip for the new year is to make healthcare part of your daily routine. Set reminders if needed to take five minutes out of your day for your oral health. Try to couple new habits with current existing habits. Especially if it is something enjoyable. For example, if you want to try to floss more, get a cordless water flosser and keep it in the shower to use daily when you shower.
When it comes to prioritizing my health, I find that I decompress best outside in fresh air. I find that some form of physical activity, especially outdoors, helps me focus, relax and release tension. My favorites are walking, running, yoga or weight training in my living room with my three dogs supervising!
Kylie Wasserman, DDS – Three Sisters Sleep
ThreeSistersSleep.com | 541.797.9136
If I could share just one healthcare tip, it would be to never underestimate the importance of quality sleep. Restorative sleep impacts every system in the body from cardiovascular health to mood regulation. Addressing sleep issues early, whether through airway evaluation or simple lifestyle adjustments, can dramatically improve overall wellness.
My favorite way to manage stress and maintain health is by staying active outdoors and prioritizing balance through daily routines. I love hiking with my dog, Rowen, and staying consistent with my evening wind-down routine of working out and using the sauna. I’ve learned that consistency in small, healthy habits matters far more than perfection.