Starting a new semester often brings a whirlwind of excitement and stress. Classes ramp up, deadlines loom, and many students find themselves juggling studies, jobs, and personal commitments. It’s a lot to manage, especially when a moment to breathe feels rare.
This January afternoon, the Mathewson-IGT Knowledge Center Rotunda will transform to give students a break. Yoga mats will cover the floor, and the warm scent of hot cocoa will fill the air. This cozy space invites students to slow down and take a moment for themselves.
The event, called Cozy Yoga, is organized by the Community Behavioral Health Collaborative and CASAT. It aims to support student well-being, especially for those in the School of Public Health. These students often study heavy topics like disease and social inequities, which can weigh heavily on their minds.
“Well-being is as important as academic success,” says Dr. Jennifer Calloway Ross, who leads the Community Behavioral Health Collaborative. She emphasizes that the stress students face isn’t just about managing workloads. It’s about the emotional challenges of their studies. They are frequently confronted with tough subjects that can affect their mental health.
Cozy Yoga is crafted to honor these stressors without piling on more demands. The event offers gentle yoga sessions and a chance to chat with peers and wellness team members. Students can join for just a session, attend multiple, or even pop in just for a moment.
Dr. Ross believes that self-care shouldn’t be an afterthought. “It’s crucial for students to care for themselves during their studies,” she says. Cozy Yoga not only promotes relaxation but also introduces students to the resources available at the SPH Student Wellness Support Center, a key part of the school’s wellness initiatives.
Engagement in self-care can be vital, especially when statistics show that more than 30% of college students report feeling overwhelmed at any point during the semester. Creating spaces where students can connect and seek help is essential. “You don’t need to wait for a crisis to reach out,” Ross adds. “Recognizing that something feels off is enough.” This kind of proactive approach is especially important for those training in health fields.
By fostering a community where seeking help is normalized, events like Cozy Yoga can change the narrative around mental health. Dr. Ross aims to build a support system that reminds students that taking care of themselves is part of their education, not separate from it.
The Student Wellness Support Center is open for students seeking help without the stress of formal appointments. They are available for drop-in hours and one-on-one sessions, providing essential support when students need it most.
As the semester progresses, it’s vital for students to remember that they are not alone. Embracing wellness can enhance their learning and overall experience in school. All these initiatives remind us that taking care of ourselves lays the groundwork for success.
