Tips to Stay Healthy at the University of Michigan
Hannah Brauer
| 4 min read
It’s great to be a Michigan Wolverine – but sometimes, it can be a little too great.
With so many opportunities for classes, clubs, jobs and internships, you may find yourself signing up for every activity you see this fall. While many aspects of university life are pulling you in multiple directions, it’s easy to resort to studying late, eating quick meals and stressing over assignments.
Though university life can be chaotic, the University of Michigan offers multiple resources for keeping your health in check. Research shows that both physical and mental wellness is directly linked to academic success, so making time for yourself is just as important as studying.
If you’re having trouble balancing university life with your well-being, U of M offers some resources to help you maintain your health and reach your full potential as a Wolverine.
Food
- MDining: For those living in the dorms this year, be smart with how you use the dining halls. Make it a habit to hit the salad bar at least once a day and limit the cheese bread and cookies, no matter how tempting they may be.
- Student Food Co.:This student non-profit organization works to make nutritious food accessible and affordable to all U-M students. You can find volunteers selling fresh produce in Mason Hall every Wednesday and Thursday!
- Healthy Recipes: To avoid those cravings for ramen noodles and pizza, use some of our easy, delicious recipes for college life:
Fitness
- Recreational Sport Facilities: U-M has three recreation buildings on Central Campus, South Campus and North Campus that are free for all students. Each is equipped with weight rooms, treadmills, volleyball courts, basketball courts, tennis courts, indoor tracks and pools for you to access any means of exercise you enjoy.
- Nichols Arboretum:Known as “The Arb,” this park is a free way to exercise outside and get away from the busy streets of Ann Arbor. Students can go running, walking or even kayaking on the Huron River.
Community
- Intramural Sports: IM sports offer students a chance to continue playing the sports they love in a less-competitive, organized environment. For those who are looking for more structure, consider signing up for Group-X, which offers fitness classes in the U-M recreation buildings including yoga, core and Zumba.
- Student Organizations: Social interaction has plenty of health benefits, so get involved in something you’re passionate about. Whether it’s Michigan Yoga Club or MRun, Wolverine Support Network or Active Minds, there are plenty of ways to socialize and maintain your health at the same time.
Mind
- U-M Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS): This service provides short-term counseling and services for urgent concerns, walk-ins, and 24-hour phone support. CAPS also operates a Wellness Zone where students can unwind with massage chairs, yoga, meditation tools and seasonal-affective disorder light therapy.
- Campus Mind Works: This website was created to support students who have been diagnosed with an ongoing mental health disorder. It provides resources for understanding and coping with a mental illness as well as ways for all students to take care of their mental health.
- Mindfulness:Operated by the LSA Newnan Academic Advising Center, these free classes are held every week on both Central and North Campus for a half-hour meditation session.
Prevention
- University Health Service (UHS): If you find yourself sick or in need of medical attention, UHS is free for all students and provides a medical clinic, pharmacy, nurse helpline, immunizations and more.
- University Hospital:For emergency services or other medical needs, U-M has one of the best hospitals in the state. University Hospital offers primary and specialty care services including women’s health, eye care and surgery so you can get the help you need on a moment’s notice.
Use our checklist to make sure you’re ready for the new semester.
If you enjoyed this blog, check these out:
Reasons to Love College Football Season in Michigan
College Students: 5 Ways to Refresh Your Health Between Semesters
College Getting Closer? Make the Transition Easier By Communicating Today
Reasons to Love College Football Season in Michigan
College Students: 5 Ways to Refresh Your Health Between Semesters
College Getting Closer? Make the Transition Easier By Communicating Today
Photo credit: Hannah Brauer, A Healthier Michigan
