"It is spring again. The earth is like a child that knows poems by heart."
Rainer Maria Rilke, poet and novelist


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

I’m so excited that it is April! The sun is shining, the days are longer and the flowers are peeking through. In honor of Earth Day on April 22 we are offering the Going Green self-directed Smorgasbord Activity – it is perfect for springtime and working towards saving our environment. Also this month, we have a new column called “Ask the Nutritionist.”  MIIA’s Integrative Nutrition Coordinator, Sandy Sarni, RD, MS will be answering questions each month submitted by our members. Have a question? Email Sandy and she may answer your question in next month’s newsletter.  See below for more information. 
Wishing everyone a sunny and happy April!


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 Going Green – In Honor of Earth Day and Explore and Move Outdoors. 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
Going Green – In Honor of Earth Day
10-day Self-Directed Activity Starting April 18
Earth Day is April 22. Be an environmentalist and help celebrate Earth Day! Small changes to your food habits and lifestyle can help save our environment. Take steps to help reduce greenhouse gases, limit the use of precious environmental resources, and more! Learn how small steps can make a difference. Give it a try and earn cool prizes as well.
Webinar of the Month
Explore and Move Outdoors
Exploring and moving outdoors has many positive health benefits and it's fun! In this webinar, we will talk about some of these health benefits, highlighting 3 outdoor activities and leisurely ways to enjoy being outdoors which you can do solo or with the whole family. Available April 1 through April 30.
Ask the Nutritionist
What Is Kimchi and Why Should I Eat it?


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: [email protected]


Financial Stress and Emotional Health
Learn to Live
Financial stress is emotional tension that is specifically related to money. If you feel like you need help with financial stress or any kind of stress, connect with MIIA's partners at Learn to Live. Learn more about our no cost personal assessment.
Looking to Quit Smoking? 
The EX Program
MIIA's partner The EX Program can help. Program includes nicotine replacement products where appropriate, an active, supportive community of peers, 1:1 coaching, tailored text messages and emails, a quit plan, and more! Learn more about this free program.
French Potato Salad
Feasting at Home
This French Potato Salad is loaded up with fresh herbs – tarragon, parsley, and chives and dressed in the most flavorful Dijon Vinaigrette. It’s vegan, with no mayo, and quick and easy to make. Healthy and light!
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