"The summer night is like a perfection of thought."
―Wallace Stevens

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

Twenty-four years ago, I was hired by the MIIA Health Benefits Trust to build and be the Wellness Coordinator for the new Well Aware program. Since that time, the Well Aware staff and program have grown by leaps and bounds. We are now a terrific team of eleven and we offer an award-winning municipal wellness program. Just last week, we were awarded one of the "Health Value" awards by the World Congress. I am so proud of my team and the valuable services and resources we offer you. 
 
Come July 1, I will be retired! I have loved this fulfilling job, leading my incredible team and being of service to you. It's been a pleasure and an honor to have had the opportunity to help you live healthy, vibrant, and productive lives. I will miss it, and you, very much. 
 
All the very best to you and your families. Stay healthy! Stay safe! And have fun! With deep gratitude, Wendy Gammons.

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 The MIIA Outdoor Adventure Scavenger Hunt and Summer Gardening with Sara Barrios. 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
The MIIA Outdoor Adventure Scavenger Hunt
2-week Self-Directed Activity Starting June 13
Did you know that treasure hunting in Scavenger Hunts has many health benefits, including relieving stress, stimulating the mind and exercising the physical body? Add the element of the outdoors and your vitamin D levels can rise and your mental and physical health can improve. Heed the call of the outdoors and reap the benefits of a good old scavenger hunt. And earn cool prizes.
Webinar of the Month
Summer Gardening with Sara Barrios
Although the spring planting season is winding down, there's still plenty to do in the garden. Plant expert Sara Barrios shares her tips for lasting enjoyment all season long. Sara has over 25 years of experience in the garden center and floral industries. Custom design work with vignettes, container plantings, perennial gardens and indoor plants are her specialties. Available June 1 to 30, 2022.
Walking in Massachusetts
Every month we will feature a different walk highlighting the beautiful nature paths throughout Massachusetts. We will make some trail recommendations and suggestions on proper foot attire. We hope you enjoy these walks by yourself or with family, friends, or furry friends. This month check out Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary in Natick.
Ask the Nutritionist
"Any nutrition suggestions for Women over 55?
Also, something to help with weight gain, hormones, metabolism?"

Do you have questions about what to eat or anything related to nutrition and food? Our new "Ask the Nutritionist" column will answer these for you. Sandy Sarni, MS, RD, MIIA's Integrative Nutritionist, will answer a question each month to help you make healthy choices for you and your family. Please submit your questions to: ssarni@mma.org

What’s in Your Hospital “Go Bag”?
Michelle Woodbrey, Co-Founder 2Sisters Senior Living Advisors
You can't plan for emergencies, but you can be pro-active in being ready in case something happens. Check out this article from our friends at 2Sisters Senior Living Advisors about making sure you have your hospital "go bag" ready!
June is Men's Mental Health Month 
Learn to Live
In the ongoing effort to reduce stigma around mental health, it’s important that everyone encourages men to be open to talking about their feelings and be aware of their symptoms. Our partners at Learn to Live are here to help. Learn more about their free support.
Greek Pasta Salad
Feasting at Home
Here is a recipe for Greek Pasta Salad that is the perfect make-ahead pasta salad for summertime picnics, BBQs, potlucks and easy summer dinners. A hearty ratio of fresh vine ripe veggies and herbs combined with tender orzo pasta, and chickpeas tossed in the tastiest Greek Salad Dressing! 
Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association, 3 Center Plaza, Suite 610, Boston, MA 02108
617-426-7272 | 800-882-1498| www.emiia.org