There is always in February some one day, at least, when one smells the yet distant, but surely coming, summer.
– Gertrude Jekyll (British writer and artist)


Welcome to our February update!  
Wendy Gammons, MIIA Wellness/Health Promotion Manager  

February is American Heart Month, a time when all people can focus on their cardiovascular health. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is shining a light on hypertension (high blood pressure), a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Please check out our article below on how to interpret your blood pressure readings and how to, properly, take readings at home. In light of Valentine’s Day, we are also hoping that anyone who needs help quitting smoking will take advantage of the resources that MIIA has to offer (details below). It’s important to quit for yourself, but also for your loved ones and is the perfect Valentine’s Day gift to give to your family or significant other.


The Well Aware Self-Directed Activity Challenges
Now there are TWO ways to earn gift cards while staying fit and well! Find our Wellbeing Smorgasbord and Webinar Buffet in each Monthly Newsletter like Pause on Purpose and Reducing Inflammation Naturally We offer a variety of exercise, diet and wellbeing activities in self-directed and webinar formats. Each program includes educational information, tips and strategies. Only MIIA/Blue Cross subscribers are eligible for $125 worth of gift cards.
Program of the Month
Pause on Purpose
10-day Self-Directed Activity Starting February 14
Our lives have certainly been extra stressful these past two years. We have felt fatigue from high levels of stress, anxiety…and even the phenomenon of Zoom Fatigue. It is important to take daily purposeful pauses to restore your sense of presence and recharge energy levels. This month feel the positive health effects of giving yourself the time to intentionally stop and pause. Earn cool prizes as well.
Webinar of the Month
How to Reduce Inflammation Naturally
When inflammation becomes chronic and systemic, it can contribute to many diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Join Bill Bradley, R.D. as he interviews Dr. Artemis Morris, co-author of the Anti-Inflammatory Book for Dummies about all things inflammation. Learn what things in your life are causing inflammation and how to decrease inflammation with diet, exercise and stress reduction.
Healthy You, Healthy Wallet!
Smart Shopper

Costs vary for medical procedures between locations. With SmartShopper, you can find a location, earn a cash reward and save money, too! (open to MIIA/BCBS subscribers only)


Tobacco Cessation Options When You’re Ready to Quit


Why not give yourself and your loved ones the gift of quitting smoking for Valentine's Day? MIIA can help! Learn how today.
Ompractice Continues in 2022!
Be happier and healthier through breath and movement - try an ompractice class today. Ompractice offers free yoga and meditation classes to all employees. 
Cooking Spanish Tapas Webinar
Spanish Tapas are small plates of simple, delicious foods served in bars and restaurants in Spain. This 6-week cooking webinar features Jamie Roblee and Rafael Gonzales who will be teaching you everything you need to know to make 5 amazing traditional Spanish tapas. Filmed in Guadalajara, Spain. Register by February 18.
When Measuring Blood Pressure, Which Number Is Most Important?
Harvard Health Letter

The two numbers are systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and it turns out, both are important. Find out why and what these numbers mean for your health and wellbeing.


Recipe of the Month
Cheesy Spinach-&-Artichoke Stuffed Spaghetti Squash
Eating Well

Ah, February in New England! Try this healthy casserole loaded with veggies when you are craving some warm comfort food.
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