September invites us to align with the season’s rhythm by sharpening attention, nurturing self-care and celebrating a special Wellness Wednesday with President Reginald DesRoches that highlights healthy aging and well-being.
September Wellness Wednesday: Whoo's Ready to Walk
Start your morning on the right foot with an early morning walk with President Reginald DesRoches and members of the Employee Health and Well-Being team! Join President DesRoches, who helped start the Wellness Wednesday initiative and continues to champion a culture of health and wellness for the Rice community, for a refreshing Inner Loop walk with friends and colleagues around Rice’s beautiful campus. Whether you’re logging your morning steps or catching up with co-workers, join us to walk, chat and recharge.
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 24 Time: 8-8:45 a.m.
Location: Gibbs Recreation and Wellness Center Courtyard
With the semester already demanding your full attention, focus can easily feel depleted. Taking time to walk among the beautiful trees and landscaping across Rice’s campus, pausing with fractal art, or listening to binaural beats offers simple ways to restore clarity and protect your energy. These natural and patterned experiences calm the nervous system, sharpen attention and create the space for more sustainable productivity!
September National Health Observances
Self-Care Awareness Month Reframe self-care as system maintenance—not luxury. Book your checkups, set work boundaries and pause before your plate. Remember to book your free chair massage!
Healthy Aging Month Promote joint health with mobility breaks and strength training. Add social engagement and lifelong learning to your well-being routine.
Check out our new pop-up Essentrics class taking place on Friday, Oct. 17 in our Mind, Body and Recovery Studio for free!
Prostate Health Awareness Month Early detection saves lives. Encourage your loved ones to talk to their providers about regular screenings. Check out our Aetna One Advisor (A1A) and call them (1-800-905-7670) for additional screening information they provide!
National Suicide Prevention Month
Meet Nancy Vincent, LMSW, Rice’s Community Behavioral Specialist, affiliated with the Rice University Police Department! Please see Nancy's incredible resources for behavioral health on and off campus below.
You’re never alone. Check in with yourself and others. SupportLinc offers 24/7 confidential behavioral health support for all employees and families. Contact SupportLinc | Company Code: riceuniversity
Mark Your Calendars for World Mental Health Day
The Student Wellbeing Office and Employee Health and Well-Being team will be hosting a variety of activities for the Rice community for World Mental Health Day on Friday, Oct. 10, including an afternoon walk around the Inner Loop. Stay tuned for more information!
Reminder: Complimentary Well-Being Outreach Services for your Department
Looking to host a wellness event, team reset or department well-being check-in? We’ll come to you! The Employee Health and Well-Being Team offers custom sessions in:
Mindful movement and yoga
Meditation and breathwork
Functional Movement and Low Impact Fitness
Customized group exercise opportunities like Zumba, Box & Burn and many more