Welcome to MHealthy Living!
Supporting U-M faculty and staff's health and well-being

From the Chief Health Officer's Desk

Happy New Year! I hope your 2025 is off to a great and healthy start. For those still considering a resolution for the new year, I would like to offer some ideas: rather than focusing solely on reducing negative behaviors, instead include more of the things you already do and enjoy, such as spending time with friends, listening to music or visiting new places. Not only may this approach be more successful and sustainable in the long term, it also emphasizes the positive.

I recently had the privilege of sitting down with one of our really great students to discuss winter wellness myths and shared insight on how to stay healthy during the colder months. Much of what we discussed is applicable to employees too. While these winter days may feel weary or long to some, remember that small actions – like getting your vaccinations, washing your hands or going outside, however briefly – can have a big impact on your overall health.

It's Active U's 20th Year!

Get moving, challenge yourself and earn your 20th anniversary T-shirt! Register now for Active U, MHealthy's 12-week physical activity challenge. We have some exciting plans to celebrate our 20th year, including 20th anniversary-themed Swag Squad, free downloads, opportunities to share throw-back photos and more!

Active U is for every fitness and ability level. Sign up as an individual, join a team or create a team. Tracking starts Jan. 20. Register by Feb. 3.

Get Your MHealthy Rewards

Find your way to well-being with MHealthy Rewards and earn $75! Get started on the MHealthy Portal:

• Complete the confidential health questionnaire.
• Set a healthy goal.

You'll learn about your current health and get a personalized list of programs and resources that fit your well-being needs. It's also an opportunity to create a healthy habit. Open to active, benefits-eligible faculty and staff.

Caring for Kids: Supporting a Child with Anxiety

It's difficult to see your child – whether they're young or a teenager – struggling with anxiety. But with the right strategies, you can help them navigate these feelings and build resilience. Read the full article in UHR News.

Caring for Kids is a monthly article series by early childhood education experts in Child and Family Care and Children's Centers. Subscribe to the UHR News for updates by email.

Commit to a Damp/Dry January

Each year, millions take part in Dry January and commit to abstain from (or reduce) alcohol for 31 days. It's a chance to discover your attitudes and behaviors related to alcohol and notice the positives of not drinking or reducing.

It's not too late to commit to an alcohol-free month. This article includes tips to get started and MHealthy's Alcohol Management Program has compiled university resources, apps, books and more to help you along the way.

Nature for Wellness Symposium Recordings

Check out recordings and slides from the Nature for Wellness Symposium exploring impacts of nature for health and wellness. Highlights include:

• "The Healing Power of Nature: Healing Ourselves, Healing the Planet" presented by Capt. Sara Newman, director of the National Park Service (Nov. 7).
• "A Physician's Take on Social Prescribing" presented by Dr. Robert Ernst, U-M chief health officer (Nov. 8 morning recording, 6:18 mark).
• Panel discussion on nature prescriptions in the healthcare realm (Nov. 8 afternoon recording, 1:08:49 mark).

February is American Heart Month

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. High blood pressure increases your risk for heart disease and stroke.

Fortunately, up to 80% of heart disease is preventable, and there are many things you can do to reduce your risk. The university offers programs and resources to help raise your awareness and improve your heart health.

In-person Physical Activity Classes

Move your way to well-being! There's still time to join a winter MHealthy in-person physical activity class. Sign up for strength training, Zumba, yoga and more. Classes are available at six campus locations. Most classes cost $70 (the cost will be prorated). Classes are also available through Rec Sports and Kinesiology Community Programs.

Nourish Your Whole Self

Based on the concept of intuitive eating, this free 12-week program helps you tune into yourself to make choices that support you feeling nourished. MHealthy coaches offer guidance on eating mindfully, being kind to yourself and being thankful for your body. Registration is open for sessions starting in January and early February.

Free Virtual Cooking Classes, Feb. 5 and 19

Attend February's cooking classes and learn to prepare heartwarming soups and healthier, make-ahead snacks for the big game. You'll also get tips for saving time and cutting costs. Register for one or both classes.

"A Breath of Fresh Air" Guided Nature Experience, Jan. 28

Join fellow staff and faculty for an energizing nature break on Jan. 28, 12 p.m. at Nichols Arb. You'll leave feeling refreshed, learn mindfulness techniques and find nearby spots with Nature Rx in the Michigan App.

To help you be your best at work and at home, MHealthy supports U-M's philosophy that many factors impact your personal well-being.