A viral new trend called the October Theory is becoming increasingly popular this season. Its premise is simple: Autumn is a fitting time to revisit your previous New Year’s resolutions and commit to new goals.

The October Theory is based in the following:

• The Autumn season brings about self-reflection and a willingness to embrace new beginnings
• Impending holiday gatherings with family and friends are often the setting of conversations about what’s new and important our lives
• For astrology buffs, October begins during Libra season—believed to evoke a sense of balance—and ends during Scorpio season, regarded as a time of renewal

Another important aspect of the October Theory is that time is on your side. While a person is likely to consider resolutions made in January as increasingly unreachable, October provides up to three months to make positive change for ourselves. This works in your favor, as studies show it takes an average of 66 days to form a new habit.

Your Blue Cross health plan is here to help with your October Theory plan. Below are five ways to embrace change and prioritize wellness this fall.

1. Use your preventive benefits: Preventive care—encompassing everything from dental cleanings and vision exams to mammograms and annual well checks—helps keep your body in good shape longer and reduces the risk of downline frustration and cost by catching health issues early. Commercial members (those who receive their insurance from their employer) can check their preventive care coverage in Blue Care Advisor. Those with a Coupe Health plan can check in the Coupe Health online portal.
2. Try new recipes: Blue Cross’ magazine for healthy choices and your best life, offers a continuous variety of new recipes grounded in the nutrition our bodies need to feel their best. Current trending meals include a healthy mac-and-“cheese”, a barbeque turkey burger, and veggie breakfast wrap.
3. Get your flu shot: The winter holiday months will only get busier. Prioritizing your future wellness by scheduling your shot now is something you may thank yourself for later, according to Blue Cross’ chief medical officer Dr. Mark Steffen.
4. Medicare members, make use of your SilverSneakers benefits: Don’t wait until January to jumpstart your physical health. Regular exercise boosts both physical and mental health and reduces the risk of hypertension, slips and falls, and offers improved cognitive health and better sleep. SilverSneakers is your key to the gym with more than 15,000 participating fitness centers nationwide in addition to live virtual classes and on-demand workout videos.
5. Commit to a step challenge: Walking 10,000 steps per day is a common goal put forward by health professionals, from doctors to personal trainers. The average American walks between 3,000 to 4,000 steps per day, according to the Mayo Clinic. For added ease, this approachable challenge can now be tracked within Blue Care Advisor. With winter quickly approaching, now is a great time to establish a routine—and find community—by walking indoors at local malls and participating school buildings.

No matter what your goals are, the October Theory is a gentle reminder to re-evaluate what is important and embrace transformation with an open mind.