On this edition of Highway to Health with host Jimmy Mac on Road Gang Radio, we’re joined by Dr. Ben Kligler, Executive Director for the Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

This conversation explores the importance of “Surroundings”—a key part of the VA’s Whole Health approach to care. Surroundings cover everything around you that can impact your well-being: where you live, work, and spend time, as well as factors like tranquility, clutter, or overstimulation.

For professional drivers, this topic is especially relevant. Life on the road means constantly changing surroundings outside the cab, while the inside often stays the same. Dr. Kligler and Jimmy Mac discuss practical ways drivers can support their health and well-being on the road, including:

Cab setup and comfort (seating, sleep space, storage, food prep)

Creating a “home away from home” with personal touches and photos

Reducing clutter to improve mental clarity and reduce stress.

How surroundings can influence physical, mental, and spiritual well-being

Learn more & explore resources:

VA Whole Health Website

Circle of Health Resources: va.gov/wholehealth

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