A Life Well Lived: CalHR Benefits Newsletter — June 2026
June is all about being summer strong! Focus on staying healthy, protecting yourself in the sun and making the most of the season with smart wellness choices.
Your Summer Strong Checklist
As summer gets busier, take time to stay grounded and take care of yourself in small but meaningful ways:
- Stay active with movement that fits your routine, like walking, biking or quick at-home workouts.
- Focus on nutrition by making balanced food choices and staying hydrated.
- Plan moments for yourself to rest, reset and recharge.
- Protect your skin and eyes from the sun by using sunscreen, wearing sunglasses and seeking shade when possible.
- Schedule preventative care appointments like dental and vision checkups to stay ahead of your health needs.
These small actions can help you feel more balanced, prepared and ready to enjoy the summer ahead. Explore fitness classes, cooking videos, stress management programs and other wellbeing resources through Live Well, the state’s Employee Wellness Program, powered by Grokker.
Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays
Spending time outdoors is one of the best parts of summer. Being outside supports your overall health by encouraging movement, reducing stress and boosting vitamin D. However, too much sun exposure can negatively impact your skin and eyes over time. UV rays can contribute to sunburn, dehydration and increase the risk of long-term eye conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
Protecting your eyes is simple when you build a few habits into your routine
- Wear sunglasses with 100% UV protection to block harmful UVA and UVB rays.
- Choose a wide-brim hat or visor for added shade and protection.
- Use sunscreen daily, including around the eyes (being careful to avoid direct contact).
- Seek shade, when possible, especially during peak sun hours (typically 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest).
- Remember UV rays are present year-round, even on cloudy days and near reflective surfaces like water or pavement.
Taking these small steps can help protect your vision and keep your eyes healthy all year long.
Protect Your Eyes and Skin this Summer
Read VSP’s article Everything You Need to Know to Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays to learn more.
Live Well: Get Summer Strong
In June, focus on building healthy habits through Live Well, the state’s Employee Wellness Program. Discover hundreds of on-demand fitness videos and programs. Whether you are looking for a quick workout, strength training or ways to stay active at home or on the go, there is something for every schedule and fitness level.
Take Care of Your Health This Summer
The Summer Screening Series is here to help you stay on top of your health this summer! From June through September, complete your annual dental and vision checkups to be entered to receive a wellness resource from your carrier, such as a new toothbrush or sunglasses.
These visits can catch issues early, reduce long-term health risks and help you feel your best all year long.
We know appointments can fill up quickly, so we encourage you to schedule early. More information will be available soon on Live Well.
Learn More About the Summer Screening Series
Be entered to receive a wellness resource by getting your dental and or vision check-up this summer.
Travel with Peace of Mind
Planning a trip can be exciting, but it often comes with a long to-do list. Taking time to prepare for legal, financial and logistical details before you leave can help reduce stress while you’re away. A little preparation now can help your vacation run smoothly from start to finish.
Before you go:
- Plan ahead by reviewing your travel route and notifying your bank or credit card company.
- Update important documents like your will or healthcare directives if needed.
- Share your itinerary and contact information with someone you trust.
- Gather and check travel documents like passports and IDs.
- Complete healthcare authorization forms if travelling with children.
- Review rental or lodging agreements carefully before signing.
What not to do:
- Avoid posting travel details or dates online while you are away.
Financial Tip: Save During Summer on Your Commute
With warmer weather and longer days, summer is a great time to rethink your commute and save money. Biking, carpooling or using public transit can help reduce transportation costs while also supporting your health and the environment. Even small changes to your routine can add up to meaningful savings over time.
The state offers several commute programs to help offset costs. The Bicycle Commuter Program encourages active transportation and provides eligible employees up to $20 per month, not to exceed $240 per year (taxable). If biking isn’t the right fit, the Mass Transit and Vanpool Commute Programs offer incentives to help cover eligible transit or shared ride expenses.
Taking advantage of these programs can make your commute more affordable while supporting a healthier and more sustainable routine.
Live Well in 2026
This June, focus on building healthy habits that help you stay summer strong. Simple actions like staying active, going outside, getting checkups, using UV protection and more can make a big difference in your overall wellbeing. Prioritizing these habits now can help you stay healthy and ready to enjoy the season ahead.
