Governors State University will host Wellness Week beginning Monday, Sept. 16. The event is designed to uplift and support the well-being of students, staff, and faculty through a variety of workshops and activities. The week promises something for everyone, fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and encouraging environment.
The week opens with a Group Wellness Walk across campus at 11 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 16, offering a chance to stretch your legs, breathe fresh air, and connect with fellow participants. Walking is not only a physical activity but also a great way to relieve stress and refresh your mind.
At noon, Dr. Tim Pedigo, will lead a workshop on Mindfulness and Well-Being in Engbretson Hall. Participants will be introduced to the R.A.I.N. technique (Recognize, Allow, Investigate, and Nurture), a mindfulness tool that can help manage stress and improve relationships.
At 1 p.m., Dr. Frank Czuba will present Re-imagining Health for Your Future Self, a session focused on strategies for a long, healthy life. Attendees will explore the eight dimensions of wellness and learn practical steps to support their longevity.
Rounding out the day is a workshop titled The Hunger Strike – Designing Balanced Meals on a Budget to Address Food Scarcity, starting at 2 p.m. Led by a group of occupational therapy students, this workshop will provide practical tips on how to make healthy meals while being mindful of budget constraints.
Tuesday, Sept. 17, begins with another Group Wellness Walk across campus at 11 a.m., setting the tone for a day focused on nurturing both mind and body.
At noon, the Institutional Wellness Committee will host a panel discussion where participants can share their thoughts on how the university can better support their well-being. This is an opportunity to have your voice heard and contribute to a stronger campus community.
At 1 p.m., join Dr. Jessica Love Jordan for a hands-on session about Self-Care and Preventing Burnout, where you will explore stress management techniques and ways to foster well-being. This session is followed by Dr. Kim Major-Ford’s talk on the Power of Words at 2 p.m., which delves into how positive affirmations can transform your life.
The day ends with a workshop titled Connect and Cultivate at 4 p.m., where participants can engage in mindfulness activities and build new relationships within the GovState community.
The schedule for Wednesday, Sept. 18, includes enriching workshops on living longer and better. Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity kicks off the afternoon with an interactive discussion on strategies for improving health through nutrition, exercise, and mental well-being.
The day also offers sessions like Building Resilience, teaching tools for emotional strength, and Living Sensationally, which provides insights into sensory patterns and how they affect our daily lives.
Governors State University’s Wellness Week is an opportunity to prioritize your health and well-being while engaging with your community. From insightful workshops to relaxing yoga and everything in between, this week promises to leave participants feeling refreshed, inspired, and ready to take on the semester. Come join us!