Today you are you!
That is truer than true!
There is no one alive
who is you-er than you!
Dr. Seuss
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Welcome to our April update!
Wendy Gammons, MIIA Wellness/Health Promotion Manager
Happy Spring! We are excited to introduce our new spring activity! Take out your cameras (or cell phones) and join our photo festival! You don’t have to be a photographer to participate. Your Wellness Rep will send you additional information on how to enter the program. We will randomly choose several winners of $25.00 Amazon gift cards. The goal is to think about what wellness means to you, take a photo of something that represents that meaning, and tell us about it in your own words.
For an example, perhaps you think wellness is all about having a positive attitude. Your photo might be of a glass on the kitchen table half full and your commentary about it would describe the relationship of optimism and positivity to wellness. For another example, a friend might feel that being outdoors in nature is what wellness is all about. That person could take a photo of a beautiful, wooded trail. There are so many possibilities. We hope you participate!
As usual, there is something for everyone in this month’s newsletter. Be inspired! Be moved! Be well!
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The Well Aware Self-Directed
Activity Challenges
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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 MIIA Marathon and How to Reduce 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/BCBS subscribers are eligible for the $50 or $75 Amazon gift card.
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Program of the Month
MIIA Marathon a 10-day Challenge Starting April 19
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Normally, the Boston Marathon would be held in April, but it has been postponed due to the pandemic. So, we are holding our own marathon! Boston Marathon participants run, walk or wheelchair 26.2 miles in 2-8 hours. You have 10 days to cover the distance (and you may certainly go further if you wish!). Walking is rated the #1 exercise, and this will jump start or supplement your exercise program. Earn cool prizes as well. |
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Webinar of the Month
How to Reduce Inflammation Naturally
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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.
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Ergonomic Risks Associated with Tablet Use
Ergonomic Tips — How to Reduce Risks
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Denise Pontbriand, PTA,CEAS,REAS |
The use of tablets is rapidly increasing. Tablets provide users with the flexibility to use them everywhere. This means we (including school-aged children) are using them in bed, sitting in a chair, in front of the television, and in the car. This has led to an increase in neck and upper back pain. Read our 8 guidelines to support success for tablets. |
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EX Program —
Smoking/Vaping Cessation Program
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Thinking about quitting tobacco or vaping? EX Coaches are real people who can help you create the best plan for you to quit tobacco. Key features include tailored emails, FREE quit medication delivered to you, live chat with a quit coach, videos, and a supportive community of peers. Only MIIA/BCBS members are eligible. |
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Eight Myths of the COVID Vaccines |
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Al Lewis, Founder Quizzify and MIIA Health Care Consultant |
While the large majority of us can’t wait to get our vaccine, polls reveal that about a third of people intend to decline theirs, including 15% of healthcare workers. Hopefully this article will clear up some misunderstandings about the Covid vaccines, which are truly the greatest medical advance of the century.
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Eat Well
How You Save Money on Food
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A few months back I asked all of you to tell me your food related money saving secrets. Here is a sampling of the creative feedback I received to my six questions. Thank you for sharing your tips! Also, congratulations to Pamela Babcock who won the 4 cookbooks raffle. |
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Recipe of the Month
Grilled Eggplant Parmigiana
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When you travel to Naples, one of the dishes that you absolutely have to try is eggplant Parmigiana. This traditional preparation is essentially a rich vegetable lasagna that uses eggplant slices in place of pasta and combines them with mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce and basil leaves. Basically, all the quintessential ingredients of classical Italian cuisine.
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Massachusetts Interlocal Insurance Association, 3 Center Plaza, Suite 610, Boston, MA 02108
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