It’s National Take the Stairs Day in New Jersey

People across New Jersey and throughout the country will avoid elevators and take the stairs today. Sometimes when I’m on my daily run I’ll run up and down the steps of our local high school’s football stadium. However, that’s nothing compared to the challenge that the American Lung Association is offering.

Today is National Take the Stairs Day promoting clean air and healthy lungs. It’s an opportunity to promote a healthy activity and register for the American Lung Association’s Fight For Air Climb New Jersey at the Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison on Sunday, April 27, 2025.

National Take the Stairs Day is an annual observance on the second Wednesday of January that gives everyone the opportunity to adopt healthy routines like taking the stairs.

Stair climbing is a step toward healthier lungs and a healthier lifestyle, as doing so improves balance and coordination and helps to strengthen major muscle groups and improve overall health. The American Lung Association is asking everyone to post their stair-climbing pics @lungassociation.

In honor of the New Year and National Take the Stairs Day, the American Lung Association is offering a discounted registration code for its 2025 Fight for Air Climbs available today through January 12. You can use code STAIR10 when registering online.

Erica Masin, Executive Director of the Lung Association told me, “There is no better time of the year to recommit to your health than now, and we’re here to help you make and keep those healthy New Year resolutions. We invite all residents to take the next step and join us for our exciting and fun-filled Fight For Air Climb at the Sports Illustrated Stadium on Sunday, April 27, 2025.”

The Fight For Air Climb gives us another chance to keep our resolutions on track by tackling the 780 stairs of the Stadium.

Joining the Fight For Air Climb supports the work of the Lung Association to defeat lung cancer, champion clean air for all, improve the quality of life for those living with lung disease and their families, and create a tobacco-free future. Join hundreds of our New Jersey neighbors, including teams of competing firefighters who join together for this fun event.

For more information about the Fight For Air Climb New Jersey, and to register, visit FightForAirClimb.org/newjersey. Don't forget to use code STAIR10 for a discount when you register.

Whether the bride doesn’t enjoy spending hours dancing under neon lights or wants to skip the usual over-the-top bachelorette traditions, there are plenty of low-key and low-profile bachelorette party ideas. Some activities include fun ways to unwind and get your body moving to creative spins on classic party themes.

This year, I’ll be stepping into the bridesmaid role, and after chatting with the fabulous group of women in the wedding lineup (and reflecting on my own bachelorette party back in 2022) I’ve realized something important: not every bride wants to “turn up.” Translation: bar hopping and clubbing aren’t every bride’s cup of tea. Some prefer a vibe that’s more low-key and low-profile.

Maybe it’s about keeping it simple with just one special evening or skipping the extravagant bachelorette trip to save for something more meaningful. And honestly, who can blame them? When guests are already making travel plans for the big day, asking the bridal squad to dish out even more for a weekend getaway can feel like a big ask.

So, let’s embrace the idea that low-key doesn’t mean less fun—it just means curating a celebration that fits the bride’s style. Think cozy wine tastings, yoga retreats, DIY spa nights, or even nostalgic sleepovers with all the snacks. The key is creating a celebration that feels right for the bride and her friends.

Cooking together is both interactive and rewarding. Set up a sushi-making station with all the essentials and let everyone create their rolls. You can also try a personal pizza night. Prepare pizza dough and invite everyone to bring their favorite toppings. It’s budget-friendly and lets everyone get creative with flavors. Pair with drinks or desserts for a cozy evening at home.

For a more relaxed night, hire a private chef. This allows everyone to sit back, enjoy high-quality food, and focus on spending time together.

A trip to a board game bar combines food, drinks, and games in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s an easy way for everyone to unwind and enjoy each other’s company. Bonus: This is something you can easily do at someone's place. For a twist, try a themed trivia night where you can dress up to match the theme and create a hilarious team name,

Treat the group to a day of relaxation at a local spa or even a weekend retreat. Massages, facials, and sauna sessions are perfect for helping everyone feel refreshed and ready for the big day. If you're looking at a strict budget try recreating an at-home spa experience.

A private cabin with a hot tub and an open fire in nature whether it be surrounded by mountains or in the deep of the woods is a great way to unwind and celebrate. Spend the weekend soaking in the hot tub, enjoying the quiet, a bonfire and making memories.

If it’s been a while since you last visited an amusement park, this is your chance. Spend the day riding roller coasters, enjoying live shows, and indulging in classic treats like cotton candy and funnel cake. This is a simple and fun idea that doesn’t require much planning but guarantees plenty of laughs and good times. And it doesn't have to be a long drawn-out weekend.

For a bride who loves to stay active, combine movement and fun with a day of fitness and dance. Start with a group fitness class, like barre, yoga, or cycling, to energize everyone. Then, switch things up with a dance-focused activity, such as a private ballet or ballroom class, a swing dance outing, or even a hip-hop session. Wrap up the day by making fresh juices or smoothies together for a refreshing and healthy way to wind down.