The sun us out and the temps are rising - this can only mean one thing: it's Spring time in Chicago! With the change in season, you may see more folks out and about being active. It's well-known that regular physical activity can improve your brain health, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen your bones and muscles, and improve your ability to get through the day.

If you're considering incorporating movement into your daily routine, there are some things to keep in mind. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults need 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and 2 days of muscle strengthening activity. This could include walking, biking, dancing, running, weight lifting, yoga, and so much more.

Another important aspect of physical activity that is not always talked about is incorporating mindfulness and joy into your physical activity routine. Practicing mindful movement assists in getting out of your head and into your body. Being aware of your body and how it feels allows you to determine what activity your body needs in a given day and helps you truly enjoy the activity (or rest) that you choose. 

If you're looking to start a new, energizing, and joyful physical activity routine this spring, check out these tips:
- Try activities that are fun for you!
- Focus on improving your health and wellbeing, not on manipulating your body size.
- Enlist a buddy or friend.
- Set realistic and doable goals for yourself.
- Remember that movement comes in all forms.

If you would like some additional support, check out the Department of Athletics and Recreation. Check out their FitChicago classes, Hyde Park and South Side Walking Routes, and Intramurals Program.

For this week's study break quiz, eat or delete some of the most controversial foods and it'll guess your age!

Take 10 is an initiative intended to encourage all members of the UChicago community to rest and connect with others. Join us to participate in Take 10 events from 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM across campus on odd-week Thursdays this quarter! We hope you drop by and take 10! 

Restorative yoga classes at UChicago Student Wellness will help ease tension and melt your worries away. Using props like blocks, bolsters, and blankets, you will relax into postures that are held for several minutes at a time. We use mindful breathing and meditation techniques that are sure to leave you calmer and more grounded than when you walked in the door. Join us at the Student Wellness Center on Tuesdays from 4-5 PM. 

20 Minute Still sessions allow you to take a moment to pause and join the Office of Spiritual Life for twenty minutes of facilitated meditation to still the mind. Twenty Minutes Still takes place on Mondays from 5:00-5:20pm in Ida Noyes Hall 034. Cookies and coffee/tea are provided.

Yoga Classes from Spiritual Life are offered in both a virtual and in-person modalities on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays during Winter Quarter. Check out the most updated yoga offerings here. 

Wellness Coaching allows students to examine their strengths with a wellness coach to navigate transitions and achieve desired changes they’d like to make in their lives. Interested students may schedule a 90-minute session with a Student Wellness coach or a 30-minute session with a TimelyCare wellness coach. Visit this page for more information.

Let's Talk provides easy access to free, informal, and confidential consultations with therapists from UChicago Student Wellness. No appointment is necessary. In-person sessions are held throughout Autumn Quarter on Mondays and Fridays. Let's Talk has more information.

Buddy Up offers graduate and professional students the opportunity to join a network of peers wanting to meet with students across campus. Students are paired up with a new buddy every two weeks. Students may register here or email Carolyn Banner at cbanner@uchicago.edu with questions.

Food Security Resources provide short-term support for students experiencing difficulties with food access. Please reach out if you or someone you know is worried about running out of food, skipping meals, etc. Graduate and Professional Students can contact Student Support Service studentsupport@uchicago.edu, and Undergraduate Students can contact the Center for College Student Success ccss@uchicago.edu. You can also apply for grocery vouchers here.

FitChicago offers an array of fitness opportunities for you seven days a week. Everything from foam roller classes to Zumba! Check out the Winter Quarter class offerings and schedule here.