The calendar may say it’s still summer but fall is in full swing for most people thanks to cooler temperatures, classes resuming and heavier workloads.
Knowing how hectic this time of year can be, MHealthy planned its annual fall events to focus on helping university faculty and staff manage stress and discover ways to relax and refresh themselves throughout the workday.
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The result is the Beautiful Break events, the first of which kicks off from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday at the Lurie Reflecting Pool on North Campus. Four more events are planned across the university’s three campuses and the U-M Health System during the next few weeks.
“MHealthy is excited to offer these unique events where our university community will have an opportunity to engage in activities and experiences that will refresh their mind, body and spirit,” says LaVaughn Palma-Davis, senior director, Health and Well-Being Services.
“Research tells us that taking time to be mindful, to slow down and to connect socially positively impacts our health, and it is in this spirit that we present these events.”
Stop by one of the free Beautiful Break outdoor events to:
• Create through art.
• Connect with friends and colleagues.
• Use movement and meditation to calm.
• Savor delicious, nourishing snacks.
• Enjoy a special gift as a reminder to thrive.
Event dates and locations are:
• Tuesday: North Campus, Lurie Reflecting Pool, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Friday: University Hospital, Dow Auditorium and Lobby, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Sept. 23: UM-Flint, lawn behind the Flint Rec Center, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Sept. 24: Central Campus, South Ingalls Mall, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Oct. 1: UM-Dearborn, University Center Patio, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
“All are welcome to take a few minutes to relax and refresh before heading back to your day,” says Colleen Greene, MHealthy senior wellness coordinator. “Our hope is that you come away with one or two new ways to create your own beautiful break, every day.”
In addition to the Beautiful Break events, MHealthy will hold an Employee Recognition Fun Walk/Run at Nichols Arboretum at 7-8:30 a.m. Sept. 18. Participants can choose between a one-mile walk/run or a three-mile run. The starting line will be at the Pit Entrance to the Arb. Register for the walk/run at tinyurl.com/nkco9g9.
The Beautiful Break events and the walk/run are among several health and well-being programs this fall that qualify for the MHealthy Grand Prize Drawing. Benefits-eligible faculty and staff and their spouses or other qualified adults that are enrolled in a U-M health plan can enter for a chance to win $500 to support their healthy behaviors. Six will win.
