"Happy Fourth of July. America is a tune. It must be sung together."
― Gerald Stanley Lee, American writer


Welcome to our July update!    

As we await the arrival of our new Wellness Manager, the entire wellness team at MIIA would like to wish you a happy and safe month of July. Please check out our 8-week Weight Loss Challenge that begins July 18th (information below) and a fun walk in beautiful Lenox.


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 Be Brain Savvy and The Whole Story of Whole Grains. 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
Be Brain Savvy
2-week Self-Directed Activity Starting July 11
We hear lots of talk about brain health, whether it be staving off dementia or preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Extensive research in the area of brain health highlights multiple ways to keep our brain healthy. The trick, however, is to practice the tactics early and often – it’s much harder to reverse dementia once it has begun. Take our challenge to “exercise” your brain and earn cool prizes.
Webinar of the Month
The Whole Story of Whole Grains
We all know by now that we should be eating whole grains instead of refined grains. But why? What health benefits do they promote? What is considered a whole grain? This webinar will answer these questions on whole grains and also share some tips on portion control and the best way to prepare grains. Available July 1 to 31, 2022.
Walking in Massachusetts
Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
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 Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Lenox.
Ask the Nutritionist
When looking for guidance on what to eat, and when to eat, who should I search out, a Dietician or a Nutritionist, and what is the difference?

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

Online 8-week Weight Loss Program
Starting July 18
Would you like to lose weight, reduce stress, be more energized and feel healthier? Our new online weight loss program can help you do just that. The program is open to all employees, but only MIIA/Blue Cross subscribers can earn prizes.
Six Things to Know about Ticks
Al Lewis, Founder of Quizzify and MIIA Health Care Consultant
It’s tick season…is there really a “season” for ticks? Not really. The first thing you need to know about ticks is they are in season most of the year, anytime the temperature is above freezing, but they are more active in the summer. Learn five more things about ticks and, if you are a MIIA/Blue Cross subscriber, you could win a $100 gift card.
July is BIPOC Mental Health Month
Learn to Live
Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) are individuals impacted both in terms of increased risk for mental health problems and in their access to mental health care. Let’s bring attention to minority mental health disparities and generate greater awareness to improve access and treatment.
Fluffy Whole Wheat Zucchini Bread Pancakes
Ambitious Kitchen

Fluffy whole wheat zucchini bread pancakes with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. These healthy zucchini pancakes are dairy free, naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup and taste just like a slice of your favorite classic zucchini bread.

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