College of Education and Human Development

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CEHD Wellness Program

The College of Education and Human Development wellness program is meant to encourage the use of employee health benefits and beyond. You are an essential part of the WMU community with and we want to invest in you and your health and well-being. On this page, find numerous health resources, wellness events, monthly tips, walking maps and more!

College of Education and Human Development
Western Michigan University
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5229 USA
Main office:  (269) 387-2960
Student services: (269) 387-3474

Monthly wellness tips

Student Recreation Center
SRC Break Week Hours
The SRC will be closed for workouts Monday, August 19 to Tuesday, August 27. The Main Office will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 
 
SRC 30th Anniversary Celebration
Wednesday, August 28
Save the date for this anniversary celebration. More details will be announced soon.
 
West Hills Athletic Club
Labor Day Live Music Workout with Tom Noack
Monday, September 2 at 8:00 a.m.
Join us for this fun and invigorating holiday workout, which will feature rock/pop music hits from the 1960’s to current times. $20 for members or $25 for guests. Email Dre at @email to register. 
 
See the attached document or https://www.westhillsathletic.com for additional information. 
 
 
Upcoming Programs
Farm Fresh Feasts Workshop and Challenge
Workshop: Thursday, September 26 from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. in SRC Room 3015 
Challenge:  Friday, September 27 to Thursday, October 3
This exciting workshop will focus on making flavorful recipes using ingredients sourced from local farmers. We will explore ways to incorporate seasonal fruit and vegetables into day-to-day eating and provide quick and easy recipes that are nourishing and full of flavor! The challenge will encourage participants to visit a local farmers market and try a recipe incorporating fresh produce.  
 
Save the Date for the 2024 Benefits Expo
Wednesday, November 13 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
 
2024 Wellness Assessments
2024 wellness assessments are available for benefit eligible employees at several locations across campus. Schedule by calling Becky Thomsen at 269-251-6858 or logging into your personal account at www.holtynwellness.com. You can also complete the assessment with your healthcare provider by filling out the Medical Provider Assessment form. It is attached or can be printed at https://wmich.edu/sites/default/files/attachments/u919/2023/Medical%20Provider%20Form.pdf
 
Hope Health August Newsletter
 
This month's health-conscious recipe

Tropical Green Smoothie. Smoothies are a fantastic choice for breakfast, a snack, or a post-workout recovery drink. Smoothies are also a great way to meet the daily recommendation of five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables.

 

Save the Date for the Wellness Champion Celebration 
Wednesday, August 7, drop-in between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., SRC Rm 3015

Please join us for this celebration to thank you for your service as a Wellness Champ. All champs who attend will receive a gift card. There will be refreshments, program information and mingling as well. Champs will receive an invitation and calendar invite closer to the event. 

Plants Are Powerful – Let’s Head to the FARM-acy!
Friday, July 12 from 12:15 to 1 p.m. at The Gibbs House (4503 Parkview Ave, Kalamazoo, MI ,park in the lot to the left of the house)
Loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients, and easier on the environment than animal foods, plants can have a huge impact on your health and the health of the planet.  This workshop will discuss the health benefits of plants, and how choosing plants over animals is good for the environment.  You’ll also get a chance to harvest and sample fresh produce from the Gibbs House. Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes because this event will be outdoors. We'll have water on hand, but feel free to bring a reusable bottle to stay hydrated! Carpooling is highly encouraged. Register on ExperienceWMU. See flyer.
 
Student Recreation Center
Summer II GroupEx and F45 Schedule
Join us for Summer II GroupEx and F45 classes Monday, July 1-Friday, August 16.  The GroupEx and F45 passes are available online or at the SRC 2nd Floor Customer Service Desk for purchase. No classes after 1 p.m. 7/3-7/5. See the attached flyer for more information.
 
SRC Faculty and Staff Summer 2024 Pickleball League 
Wednesdays, July 19 to August 14 from 12:15 to 1 p.m.
Registration for Faculty and Staff Summer II Pickleball is open on IMLeagues and will close on Tuesday, July 9. Participants can register on IMLeagues.com and the cost is $9 for each player. Participants must have SRC access to play in the league. See the attached flyer for additional information.
 
SRC Building Hours
 
West Hills Athletic Club
See the attached document or https://www.westhillsathletic.com for information and upcoming programs. 
 
2024 Wellness Assessments
2024 wellness assessments are available now at several locations across campus. Schedule by calling Becky Thomsen at 269-251-6858 or logging into your personal account at www.holtynwellness.com. You can also complete the assessment with your healthcare provider by filling out the Medical Provider Assessment form. It is attached or can be printed at https://wmich.edu/sites/default/files/attachments/u919/2023/Medical%20Provider%20Form.pdf 
 
Hope Health July Newsletter

https://www.personalbest.com/PDFs/2024-JUL-PBH.pdf

Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month
Alzheimer’s is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other cognitive disabilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Many of us have been touched by Alzheimer’s in some way and it currently has no cure. Learn about the 10 early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia at https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs. 
 
Rescheduled - Spring into Summer Cooking Demonstration and Tasting
Friday, June 7 from 12:05 to 12:55 p.m. in Kohrman Room 3302
This taste-testing workshop will highlight spring and summer-inspired recipes with fresh produce from the Gibbs House Register at https://wmich.edu/events/68109
 
Holtyn Wellness Assessments at the SRC
Complete your 2024 wellness assessment this summer at the Student Recreation Center or with your personal provider. Schedule with Holtyn by calling Becky Thomsen at 269-251-6858 or by logging into your account at www.holtynwellness.com. If you are seeing your provider, print out the Medical Provider Assessment form.
 
West Hills Athletic Club
See the attached document or https://www.westhillsathletic.com for information and details. 
 
Hope Health June Newsletter
22nd Annual Poker Walk
Tuesday, May 14th from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Student Recreation Center 

A fun and exciting event that celebrates National Employee Health and Fitness Day. Participants will be given a scorecard, which includes a QR Code, course map, and directions on how to build your poker hand. All participants who finish the walk and turn in their completed scorecard will be entered to win prizes. Register at https://wmich.edu/rec/pokerwalkregform

Walk the Parks Challenge
Wednesday, May 15 to Tuesday, May 28 

Kalamazoo and Portage have numerous parks and nature preserves to explore. Go for a walk in as many of the parks as you can during this 14-day challenge. Email Katie Alkema to register at @email. Click here for flyer

Spring Into Summer Cooking Demonstration and Tasting
Friday, May 17 from 12:05 to 12:55 p.m. in Kohrman Room 3302

This taste-testing workshop will highlight spring and summer-inspired recipes with fresh produce from the Gibbs House. Register at https://experiencewmu.wmich.edu/event/9666562

Holtyn Wellness Personal Webpage

Keep your health and well-being front of mind with your personal Holtyn Wellness webpage. Your private account displays past wellness assessment results and trends, programing opportunities, appointment scheduling, and more. Login today at www.holtynwellness.com. 

Student Recreation Center

Summer I GroupEx and F45

The Summer I GroupEx and F45 schedule is attached, and passes are now available for purchase online or at the SRC 2nd-floor Customer Service Desk. Whether you are here for Summer I, or both Summer I and II, we have the perfect option for you. Click here for schedule.

Summer 2024 Pickleball League 
Wednesdays, May 8 to June 26 from 12:15 to 1 p.m.

All skill levels are welcome. The cost is $9 and SRC access is required to participate. See the attached flyer for additional information. 

West Hills Athletic Club

Group Fitness Launch and SPCA Donation Drive

West Hills Athletic Club is teaming up with the SPCA of Southwest Michigan to celebrate the launch of new music and choreography in our Group Fitness Classes. WHAC will be accepting donations for SPCA’s work for homeless pets through May 11. 

See the attached document or https://www.westhillsathletic.com for additional information and details. 

Hope Health May Newsletter

 

Upcoming Programs

22nd Annual Poker Walk
Tuesday, May 14th from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Student Recreation Center 

Save the date for this fun and exciting event that celebrates National Employee Health and Fitness Day. View flyer.

How to Overcome Disabling Thoughts
Wednesday, April 3 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in SRC Rm 3016 
In this EQ workshop, participants will identify disabling thoughts, develop resilience to these thoughts and apply positive psychology. The session is based on a 6-hour Brain Potential Webinar by Jaime Kurtz, PhD. Register by emailing Katie Alkema at @email. View flyer.
 
Let’s Get Moving Walking Group
Wednesday, April 3 from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Meet at the Student Center Front Entrance

Connect with fellow Broncos, improve your mood and get your steps in with this indoor 30-minute walk. Register at https://experiencewmu.wmich.edu/event/10021820. View flyer.

  

West Hills Athletic Club:

300+ Pounds Lost in the WHAC Weight Loss Team Challenge
This year’s challenge combined exercise and the Biometrics meal plan to great success. Participants lost weight while creating lifelong healthy habits in a fun and supportive environment. Contact our trainers today to get started on your journey to better health and well-being. See the attached document or https://wmich.edu/westhills for additional information and details. 

 

2024 Wellness Assessments:

2024 wellness assessments are available now at several locations across campus. Schedule by calling Becky Thomsen at 269-251-6858 or logging into your personal account at www.holtynwellness.com. You can also complete the assessment with your healthcare provider by filling out the Medical Provider Assessment form. It is attached or can be printed at https://wmich.edu/sites/default/files/attachments/u919/2023/Medical%20Provider%20Form.pdf 

 

April Health Tip

 

Hope Health Newsletter:

Upcoming Programs

22nd Annual Poker Walk
Tuesday, May 14th from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Student Recreation Center 

Save the date for this fun and exciting event that celebrates National Employee Health and Fitness Day. 

Beyond the Table:  A Diet That’s Good for You AND the Environment 
Wednesday, March 20 from 12:05 to 12:55 p.m. in Sindecuse Room 3131

This workshop looks at how our food choices impact the environment, what we can do to mitigate any negative consequences, and will explore healthy plant-based eating. Staff from Gibbs House will join us to discuss sustainability programs, services, research, and opportunities. Register at https://experiencewmu.wmich.edu/event/9666524

How to Overcome Disabling Thoughts
Wednesday, April 3 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in SRC Rm 3016 
In this EQ workshop, participants will identify disabling thoughts, develop resilience to these thoughts and apply positive psychology. The session is based on a 6-hour Brain Potential Webinar by Jaime Kurtz, PhD. Register by emailing Katie Alkema at @email.

 

Student Recreation Center:

Spring 2024 Pickleball Leagues
Wednesdays, March 13 to April 24 from 12:15 to 1 p.m.

All skill levels are welcome. Cost is $9 and SRC access is required to participate. See the attached flyer for more details and registration information. 

 

West Hills Athletic Club:

Spring Fling Fitness Training
March 18 to April 28

Add some spring to your step and get ready for summer with our six-week personal training program. You will meet one-on-one with a West Hills’ personal trainer twice a week so you can reach your health and fitness goals. This is for new clients only and costs $299 for members or $359 for guests. Email Dre at @email to register. 

See the attached document or https://www.westhillsathletic.com for additional information and details.  

 

2024 Wellness Assessments:

2024 wellness assessments are available now at several locations across campus. Schedule by calling Becky Thomsen at 269-251-6858 or logging into your personal account at www.holtynwellness.com. You can also complete the assessment with your healthcare provider by filling out the Medical Provider Assessment form. It is attached or can be printed at https://wmich.edu/sites/default/files/attachments/u919/2023/Medical%20Provider%20Form.pdf 

 

Hope Health Newsletter:

Let’s Get Moving Walking Group
Wednesdays February 7, 21, 28 from 10 to 10:30 a.m. 
Connect with fellow Broncos, improve your mood and get your steps in with these indoor 30-minute walks. See the attached flyer for locations and register through ExperienceWMU. 

 

Emotional Eating – What Are You Hungry For? (Facilitated by Dietitian Gretchen Kauth)
Thursday, February 15 from 12:05 to 12:55 p.m. in Sindecuse Rm 3131 
This workshop will help participants identify emotional vs physiological hunger, learn why food ‘works’ as a temporary fix, and discuss strategies to help overcome emotional eating. Register at https://experiencewmu.wmich.edu/event/9666169

 

Mental Health First Aid
Thursday, February 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Sindecuse Rm 3111 
Attend this session to learn how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses and substance abuse disorders. Register at: https://experiencewmu.wmich.edu/event/9599747

 

Type 2 Diabetes Medications
Wednesday, February 21 from 12:05 to 12:55 p.m. in Sindecuse Rm 3131 
Medication is often prescribed for people with Type 2 diabetes, but many people don’t know all they should about their medications. Join Sindecuse Pharmacist Sunny Singh as he discusses Type 2 diabetes medications. Register at https://experiencewmu.wmich.edu/event/9696340

 

Mental Health Week and Fair (February 19-23) 

The Fair takes place Tues., February 20 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Student Center Gathering Stairs

 

Student Recreation Center

Spring GroupEx and F45 Schedule

 

West Hills Athletic Club

Pilates Reformer Classes
The six principles of Pilates are centering, concentration, control, precision, breath, and flow. All classes are 50 minutes. If you have three or more people you can start your own class. It is recommended you meet with a Pilates Reformer instructor prior to signing up. You will learn a few of the basic exercises and decide which class best suits your needs. The next session of classes begins March 16. Call (269)387-0410 or see https://wmich.edu/westhills/pilates.

Visit https://www.westhillsathletic.com for additional information and details. 

 

Upcoming Programs

Beyond the Table:  A Diet That’s Good for You AND the Environment 
Wednesday, March 20 from 12:05 to 12:55 p.m. in Sindecuse Room 3131
This workshop looks at how our food choices impact the environment, what we can do to mitigate any negative consequences, and will explore healthy plant-based eating. Staff from Gibbs House will join us to discuss sustainability programs, services, research, and opportunities. Register at https://experiencewmu.wmich.edu/event/9666524
 

Holtyn Wellness 

2024 Wellness Assessments
2024 wellness assessments are available now at several locations across campus. Schedule by calling Becky Thomsen at 269-251-6858 or logging into your personal account at www.holtynwellness.com. You can also complete the assessment with your healthcare provider by filling out the Medical Provider Assessment form. It is attached or can be printed at https://wmich.edu/sites/default/files/attachments/u919/2023/Medical%20Provider%20Form.pdf

 

Wellness Workshops
Did you know Holtyn and Associates offers free Wellness Workshops for groups of six or more on several topics including stretching, sleep, cooking with local ingredients, smart snacking, emotional well-being and more. It is a perfect way to kick off a staff meeting or add value to your lunch hour. Some programs require 30 minutes, but many can be tailored to your time frame. Visit https://wmich.edu/wellness/expressworkshops  for workshop topics and descriptions, and to schedule a program. 
 

This month's featured recipe

Almond- Crusted Salmon
Wild-caught salmon has high levels of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a nutritious dinner choice to support heart health and overall well-being. I subbed out the Swiss chard for Bok choy, but any greens will do! Print out the recipe.
 

Hope Health Newsletter

February Newsletter

Successfully Creating New Habits and Kicking the Old Ones Virtual Workshop (Facilitated by Darby Fetzer) 
Wednesday, January 31 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 

Based on Stanford Behavioral Scientist BJ Fogg’s book, Tiny Habits, this EQ workshop will educate participants on judgment-free, science-based methods of changing habits. This approach is far more effective than relying on motivation alone.  

Register at https://wmich.edu/events/74296 or by emailing Katie Alkema at @email.

The Healthy Way Virtual Program (Facilitated by Registered Dietitian Gretchen Kauth) 
Meeting virtually on Thursdays, January 30 to March 5 from 12:05 to 12:55 p.m.  

This 6-session program is designed for employees who want to achieve their health goals through evidence-based nutrition, mindful eating practices and behavior strategies. Sessions are designed to provide individual and peer support.Register at https://experiencewmu.wmich.edu/event/9666116 

 

Student Recreation Center

Group Exercise and F45 Schedule 
All classes are free the week of January 8 to 13. Save $10 on your Unlimited Pass when you purchase it before January 13. 
Spring SRC Pickleball Leagues 

All experience levels are welcome! See the attached flyer for more information.  

 

West Hills Athletic Club 

Health and Fitness Goals 

West Hills is here to assist you with your healthy lifestyle goals. We offer FREE consultations to members and guest – providing different options for every lifestyle and budget. If weight management is one of your goals, WHAC offer Biometrics Nutrition & Fitness and Smart Start. If you need accountability in your fitness journey, check out personal training, small group training or group fitness classes. We also have intro classes for pickleball and tennis. We are confidnent we have a program to help you reach your goals in 2024.   

Visit https://www.westhillsathletic.com for additional information and details.  

 

2024 Wellness Assessments 

2024 wellness assessments are available now at several locations across campus. Schedule by calling Becky Thomsen at 269-251-6858 or logging into your personal account at www.holtynwellness.com. You can also complete the assessment with your healthcare provider by filling out the Medical Provider Assessment form. It is attached or can be printed at https://wmich.edu/sites/default/files/attachments/u919/2023/Medical%20Provider%20Form.pdf 

 

Newsletters

 

Walk your way to wellness

Walking is one of the easiest ways to get your daily fitness in! Just a short walk can help to improve your mood, boost endorphins and help you to feel your best for the rest of the day. Grab a co-worker and take a walk around WMU's beautiful campus or visit one of CEHD's three buildings: Kohrman Hall, Sangren Hall or the Student Recreation Center.

 

Want to walk more?

Join WMU's Let's Get Moving walking group! This group goes on a walk on Monday's and Wednesday's and is open to all WMU students, faculty and staff. There is no pressure to walk with the group the entire time as participants can join and leave as they see fit. Each walk is approximately 30 minutes long. Register for an upcoming walk. 

 
Risk Statement: Participation in exercise activities, fitness activities, wellness rooms and special events is purely voluntary, and individuals participate at their own risk. Participants should be aware of the possibilities of bodily injury and should understand that they are responsible for any and all costs arising out of injury or property damage sustained through participation. Should someone become injured, please notify a program or facility supervisor for assistance.