Even if your mile time is improving, and you’re squatting more than ever, surface-level changes only show part of the story.
For a better sense of full–body health heading into 2026, precise health indicators are key: metrics like hormone levels, cholesterol, blood count, and metabolic vitality.
Their tests are the same ones your doctor relies on, and now you can purchase them on your own without a doctor’s appointment.
With 100+ tests to choose from, you can focus on the markers that give you the clearest picture of your health heading into 2026.
Popular picks include:
Heart health: Monitor cholesterol, lipids, ApoB, and more.
Hormone health: Assess your hormone levels for energy and well-being.
Annual wellness for men and women: Giving you a comprehensive view of your overall health.
Bonus: Tests are FSA/HSA eligible, meaning you can turn those expiring dollars into meaningful data before the year ends.
🧩 Customize your health insights
Not everyone needs the same testing — and now, with new custom test options, you can build a personalized panel that fits your body, your goals, and your budget. Only pay for the metrics that matter to you.
You’ve definitely walked past this one. The Nathaniel Ingraham House on Charleston’s High Battery is up for auction. Views of Charleston Harbor and Fort Sumter await from luxurious living quarters, but the library is arguably the star of the show.
Travel
The approaching New Year is befitting a time as any for a healthy dose of wanderlust. That’s what we’re doing with Condé Nast Traveler’s 26 hottest travel destinations for 2026. Whether you’re after natural wonder, buzzy cities, or a vibrant food scene, you’ll get there quicker by starting at Charleston International Airport.
State
You donut want to miss this. Krispy Kreme was just named the most popular donut chain in South Carolina, edging out Dunkin’ Donuts, Shipley Do-Nuts, and Daylight Donuts. Want to branch out? Grab a pastry from a local brunch restaurant.
On This Day
On December 15, 2001, the Leaning Tower of Pisa reopened after an ambitious 11-year project to reduce its tilt. Initially an architectural mishap, the tower is now one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, but we’ve got some pretty iconic landmarks of our own, too. (History.com)
Eat
If “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” is on your watchlist this December, you’re in good company. The 1989 film is the most popular holiday film in South Carolina, per a new PixlParade report. Pro tip: Fuel your movie night with takeout from a local pizzeria.
Jobs
“The process is super easy and far more cost-effective than using a recruiter.” That’s what one business owner said about hiring through our Job Board. See for yourself — post your open positions for free.
Seasonal
Holiday scratch tickets from the SC Education Lottery are an easy way to brighten someone’s season, offering festive fun for adults 18+. They make cheerful stocking stuffers or last-minute gifts that add a little excitement to any celebration. Get your gift and make someone’s holiday sparkle.*
Finance
You’re smart — but your spending can still be dumb. These are the 11 dumbest things smart people waste money on.*
Featured Deal
Give the gift of relaxation — and receive something special in return. For a limited time, purchase a $350 Woodhouse gift card and receive a complimentary spa robe. Upgrade to a $600 gift card, and they’ll elevate your gift with a robe and candle. Read: A little extra luxury, just for gifting.*
City Guide
Giving back this holiday season
Volunteer to bring gardens to schools with The Green Heart Project. | Photo by @pecheney @greenheartchs
We recently found out that philanthropist MacKenzie Scott donated $7.1 billion to nonprofits this year. Holy guacamole.
But here in Charleston, you don’t need deep pockets to do your part. You can give your time, kindness, or a few hours of hard work to one of these deserving volunteer opportunities instead:
Fresh, small-batch coffee from Trade. Take the quiz + get matched with coffee blends that align with your tastes and preferences. Bonus: Our readers get an exclusive 50% off their first month subscription — no code necessary.
Are you bored of your Christmas tree? Here’s a fun idea.
A new trend has folks recreating classic styles from the 1950s and 1960s to add some vintage flair to their living rooms. It could be tough to find some of this stuff, but Charleston’s thrift stores might be able to help.