UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – Penn State Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW) invites students to participate in a variety of activities designed to support their health and well-being throughout the fall semester. These events go beyond stress management, offering opportunities to enhance mindfulness, foster creativity, and build new friendships and hobbies.
“Health Promotion and Wellness cultivates a community that supports student success, well-being and the pursuit of lifelong health,” said Erin Raupers, assistant director. “Students can immerse themselves in nature, art and a variety of other wellness activities to support their well-being. Our hope is that every Penn State student can experience at least one wellness activity during their time here.”
HPW activities cater to diverse interests and help students improve concentration, meet new people, and develop a sense of belonging. Weekly offerings include:
Yoga and Meditation
Discover tranquillity through yoga and meditation classes led by certified instructors Sima Farage, RYT 200, and Latisha Franklin, RYT 200. Classes run through Dec. 13, with no sessions during Thanksgiving break.
- Mondays, 12:30–1:30 p.m. at 232 HUB-Robeson Center with Sima
- Wednesdays, 12–1 p.m. at Palmer Museum of Art with Latisha
- Wednesdays, 5:30–6:30 p.m. at 122 Pasquerilla Spiritual Center with Sima
Shinrin-yoku (Forest Bathing)
Join a certified forest therapy guide for a slow, sensory walk through Hartley Wood, located behind the Arboretum at Penn State. Sessions run every Thursday until Oct. 24. At 4-5:15 p.m. and 5:30-6:45 p.m. Advanced registration is required.
Well-being Wednesdays
Visit the Intramural Building every Wednesday from 3-5 p.m. for activities like making a mind jar or friendship bracelet, or relaxing with a Zen garden in the relaxation room. Each week features outreach tables promoting creativity, relaxation, and community. This collaboration is sponsored by Campus Recreation, the Center for Fitness and Wellness, and Health Promotion and Wellness.
Relax Your Brain
A three-session series that helps students build resiliency skills and manage stress with breathwork techniques led by Rose Bohn, a trained breathwork guide and writing professor. Advanced registration is required. Sessions take place from 4-5 p.m. in 232A HUB-Robeson Center:
- Oct. 29: Learn how your brain responds to intentional breathing
- Nov. 5: Learn how to let go of stress
- Nov. 12: Become a superhero for yourself
For more information about Health Promotion and Wellness, a unit in the division of Student Affairs, visit the events and programs website or join the weekly wellness events listerv by emailing promotinghealth@psu.edu.