'Unplug and Connect' with peers this Wellness Wednesday

Following a successful Wellness Wednesday last month, this April 14 students can again enjoy a break from classes and engage in safe on-campus activities.
'Unplug and Connect' with peers this Wellness Wednesday
Illustration by Chantal Chalita

As the University’s Healthy 'Cane Network reflects on March’s day-off for students, the committee hopes to return mid-week relaxation to campus. In the absence of spring break, this semester offers two days off dedicated to rest and the promotion of mental health.

“We were pleasantly surprised with the results from our first Wellness Wednesday. We wanted to offer safe options to students in the absence of Spring Break and encourage a mix of fun and educational opportunities,” said Tony Musto, chairman of the Healthy Cane Network.

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., students can enjoy outdoor games, terrariums, and food trucks on the Foote Green as the headlining activity of the day. The event, themed “Unplug and Recharge,” offers students experiences outside their online responsibilities and a chance to leave their virtual classrooms during an unprecedented semester.

“I really enjoyed all the activities the school held for us. I think it’s important to have that time to relax and look away from our screens, especially with this year being so hectic and untraditional,” said Ariella Lafayette, a sophomore studying political science.

On Wednesday morning, a series of well-being sessions will be held, including Sunrise Yoga at Lakeside Village. Another signature Pancakes with Pat event will end the day at 8:30 p.m.

Prefacing the activity-filled day is ’Canes Wellness Night on Tuesday, April 13, where students can kick off their day to unwind starting at 5:30 p.m. on the Lakeside patio.

Students can further unplug by exploring the safe nature experiences within the Miami community. On April 13 and 14, Outdoor adventures at Lakeside Village is offering 50% off gear rentals and access to a student-curated map to serve as a guide for locations to visit. For some off-campus stress reduction, students are encouraged to safely visit local trails recommended on the Wellness Wednesday website.

For more information on the day’s events and registration links, visit the University's Wellness Wednesday page.

Below is a summary of the schedule of events: 

Tuesday, April 13 

  • 5:30 p.m.: ’Canes Wellness Night at Lakeside Patio 

Wednesday, April 14 Well-Being Sessions 

  • 8 a.m.: Sunrise Yoga at Lakeside Village: Pre-registration required
  • 9 a.m.: Breath Work for Better Performance via Zoom
  • 10 a.m.: UMindfulness session: Pre-registration required
  • 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Outdoor games, terrariums, and food trucks on the Foote Green 

  • 2:45 p.m.: Breath Work for Better Performance: Pre-registration required
  • 4 p.m.: Sustainability Garden at the Arboretum: Pre Registration required
  • 5:30 p.m.: Outdoor Yoga at Lakeside Village: Pre-registration required 
  • 8:30 p.m.: Pancakes with Pat at Lakeside Village (between Lobbies C & D) 

Wellness Wednesday is co-sponsored by the Division of Student Affairs, Healthy 'Cane Network, Wellness and Recreation, Counseling Center, Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education, Student Health Service, Housing and Residential Life, Student Activities and Student Organizations, GreenU, UMindfulness, and the University of Miami Police Department.