Health Minds Healthy College

Campus Well-Being

Wellness

Paint Nights This Fall

September 19, 2023

October Painting for NDC/EDC

“Art is a powerful form of medicine – with the power to heal, to find insight, stillness and growth, to de-stress and feel in balance. Making art is a safe space to be wild and free.” Kisa MacIsaac 

Join Campus Well-Being, the Students’ Association and instructor Kisa MacIsaac, for an evening of painting and creative discovery. Participants follow a step-by-step process to create a unique painted canvas.

There is no cost for this event and light snacks are provided. All students and staff are welcome to register. 

November Painting for Virtual Night.

REGISTERExchange District Campus: Thursday, October 5, 2023, 4:15 to 6:30pm in the Dining Hall in The Roblin Centre near Tim Hortons.

REGISTERNotre Dame Campus:  Wednesday, Oct 11, 4:15pm to 6:30pm, in The Cave, DM30

REGISTERVirtual: Wednesday, Nov 1, 2023, 6pm to 8pm. Link will be emailed to registrants closer to the event. NOTE: The first 20 RRC Polytech students may request a paint kit to pick up from NDC or EDC. You will receive email confirmation. Student supply kits are limited, so register early.

 

Mental Illness Awareness Week

September 19, 2023

“What mental health needs is more sunlight, more candor, and more unashamed conversation” – Glenn Close

Image by Teentalk.ca

As we approach Mental Illness Awareness Week, Campus Well-Being is gearing up to host community organizations to educate, inspire, and promote dialogue surrounding mental health. This week is a crucial opportunity for us to come together as a community, fostering understanding and empathy for those affected by mental illness. Joining these events isn’t just about attending; it’s about contributing to a more compassionate and supportive campus environment.


Art Jam – October 3rd

Image by ftibor on freeimages.com

Get ready to unleash your creative spirit at the Art Jam event! This event will be hosted at Notre Dame Campus in the Prairie Lights Room from 10:00am to 1:00pm.

This special gathering is a collaborative effort between Indigenous Student Supports and Campus Well-Being, where art and culture come together to promote mental wellness. Whether you’re an experienced artist or simply looking to explore your creative side, this event welcomes all skill levels and backgrounds. We’ll provide all the art supplies along with a welcoming atmosphere that encourages open dialogue and connection. To keep your creative energies flowing, light refreshments will be served throughout the event. Students are encouraged to sign up but are also welcome to drop in! Come for the whole time period or just a portion. Sign Up Here.

For questions or accessibility needs please email Fizza.


Mental Illness Organizations – October 4-5

A stylized illustration of a brown skinned woman wearing a green top with green, blue, and purple leaves and flowers growing from her head.
Image by Freepik

Come and interact with community organizations! The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), Artbeat Studio, Klinic and more are gearing up to offer engaging activities for students. These organizations are committed to providing students with opportunities to learn, grow, and connect. Get ready to dive into a world of meaningful experiences that nurture both the mind and the soul.

NDC – October 4th in the Library Hallway from 10am to 1pm

EDC – October 5th in the Agora from 10am to 1pm


Create Your Own ‘Self-Care’ Bags!

Image by Jerusha Hansper

The Campus Well-Being Team will have a variety of sensory items such as fidgets, candles, journals and candy to create your own self-care bag. Stop by to make your own! Let us know what you do to take care of your mental wellness.

NDC – October 4th in the Library Hallway from 10am to 1pm

EDC – October 5th in the Agora from 10am to 1pm

Campus Well-Being September Programs

August 29, 2023

FITNESS AND MOVEMENT

Breaking and Hip Hop Dance (NDC)

Learn about the foundational movements of Breaking, and their connection to Hip Hop culture with instructor, Mooki. Classes will be focused around learning steps, and terminology which will provide students a knowledge base to take the dance into their own hands.

Breaking is an extremely powerful exercise tool, and a course like this will benefit participants who are looking to find a fun, new way to stay in shape. These activities will have no particular physical requirements and are in one way or another accessible for all.

REGISTER – Sept 27, Oct 11 & 18 and Nov 1, 8, 22 and 29, Notre Dame Campus: Wednesdays, 12:10pm to 12:50pm, in the South Gym. All experience levels welcome.

T’ai Chi (NDC, EDC and Virtual)

T’ai Chi involves the use of daily gentle exercise to improve health with a focus on breathwork. Sifu Josh Schafer teaches this longevity practice that is easy to access and yet profound enough for a lifelong engagement. The universal martial arts movements serve as a focus for the development of mind, body, and spirit (Chi).

REGISTERNotre Dame Campus: Mondays, 12:10pm to 12:55pm, in the South Gym. All experience levels welcome.

NEW – REGISTER Exchange District Campus: Thursdays, 7am to 7:45am, in P107. All experience levels welcome.


For a virtual Tai Chi option and other online movement classes or wellness workshops, visit MindWell. All programs are free for RRC Polytech staff, students and faculty. Create or sign in to your account to get started.

Wednesday Yoga (NDC and Virtual)

Holly Pluchinski guides in-person yoga participants in a room surrounded by soothing sounds and panoramas. Stretch and relax! Suitable for all levels and mats are provided.

Wednesdays starting September 20, 2023, 12:10pm to 12:50pm, Notre Dame Campus, GM33, near North Gym.

REGISTER: In-person OR Virtual option available, all registrants will have access to the recording as well for one week after the class.

NOTE: Link will be emailed to participants after registration. No food is allowed in the room. Click here for more information about the Immersion Room.

Friday Yoga (Virtual)

From the comfort of your home or office, Holly leads a 30-minute yoga class allowing participants to stretch, breathe and feel good. Suitable for all levels. 

REGISTERFridays, 12:15 to 12:45pm, link will be emailed to registrants separately.

NOTE: Bonus class on Wednesday, September 13!

Self-Defense Class (EDC)

Learn practical self defense techniques in a friendly and fun atmosphere. Gain confidence and fitness while adding tools and techniques to the martial arts toolkit. Topics to be explored include effective movement and striking theory, range strategy, defense against weapons, neutralizing the grappling attack. No previous experience necessary to join.

REGISTERExchange District Campus: Wednesdays, September 20 to October 25*, 4:15pm to 5:15pm, in P107 in the Roblin Center.

*Note: No class on October 11, 2023.

Strength and Conditioning (NDC)

These fun and high energy sessions utilize bodyweight exercises, kettlebells, dumbbells, medicine balls, bands and more for a compete total-body workout.

• Improve your mood, health and fitness in this action-packed class that will have you building muscle and fully energized for the rest of your day!

• All fitness levels are welcome & exercise progressions and modifications will be provided throughout each workout to accommodate everyone.

• With Coach MG

REGISTER – Notre Dame Campus, North Gym: Tuesdays and Thursdays 12:10 – 12:50pm

Muscle and Mobility (NDC)

Build strength, flexibility, and training knowledge in this self-paced class that focuses on movement quality over quantity.

• Incorporate a combination of strength exercises with mobility and flexibility drills to counteract our repetitive daily activities.

• Improve your physical performance and reduce the likelihood of injuries and chronic pain. • All fitness levels are welcome & exercise progressions and modifications will be provided throughout each workout to accommodate everyone.

• With Coach Justin Ross

REGISTER – Notre Dame Campus, North Gym: Mondays and Wednesdays 12:10 – 12:50pm

Bike Share Program (NDC)

Borrow one of Campus Well-Being’s bikes to go for lunch, run an errand or cruise around the area. Our four new bikes include Moose and Bear (large), Eagle (medium) and Goose (small).  Come to the NDC North Gym customer service desk during regular gym hours, fill out a waiver and pick your bike – daytime borrowing only by students and staff.

Learn more about the Bike Share program here.

RECREATION

CFL Weekly Winning Teams Pick (All Campuses)

Photo by Dave Adamson on Unsplash

By Thursday each week, select the teams you think will win for the upcoming weekend games and submit them to be entered for a grand prize. Starting Monday, September 5, 2023 (for week 14), this contest will be running up to and including the Grey Cup. Connect with other football fans in a TEAMS online chat group.

Weekly team picks can be submitted by email to Kristi Dorian, Recreation and Wellness Coordinator. Game on!

Pop-up Game Room (NDC and EDC)

Campus Well-Being welcomes you to a new term! Challenge yourself in a Minute to Win It game, play giant games like Jenga, Chess, Checkers or Connect 4, try table tennis, join some peers in a friendly card game or do some puzzles or colouring.

DROP-IN: Notre Dame Campus: Thursday, Sept 7, 2023 – 10am to 2pm. Library Hallway.

DROP-IN – Exchange District Campus: Thursday, Sept 14, 2023 – 10am to 2pm. Dining Hall near Tim Hortons in The Roblin Centre.

Monthly Board Game Nights (EDC and NDC)

Bring yourself, your friends or family for an “all welcome” board game night.

DROP-IN – Exchange District Campus: Tuesday, Sept 19, 4pm to 7pm, in the Dining Hall in The Roblin Centre near Tim Hortons.

DROP-IN – Notre Dame Campus: Thursday, Sept 21, 4pm to 7pm, in The Cave, DM30.

Games include: Anomia, Battleship, Boggle, Can you Name 5, Catan Family Edition, Chess and Checkers, Cranium, Taboo, Cribbage and Crib Wars, Dominoes, Forbidden Island, Hedbanz, Jenga, Last Word, Monopoly (board game) and Monoply Deal (cards), Othello, Pictionary, Pictureka, Scrabble, Sequence, Taboo, Telestrations, Trivial Pursuit, Uno, Yahtzee, and You Don’t Say.

Contact Kristi if you’d like to reserve a specific game for your group of friends, classmates or staff team.

WELLNESS

Mandalas and Meditation (EDC, NDC and Virtual)

Photo by Swati H. Das on Unsplash

This workshop combines the practice of meditation with the creation of mandalas, a form of ancient, circular art. Dr. Nandita Selvanathan guides participants through a meditative process to access their inner artist, giving them the tools to create their own mandala. This practice can help to reduce stress and promote healing.

FULL – Exchange District Campus: Tuesday, Sept 5, 4:30pm to 6:30pm, P107, The Roblin Centre, Exchange District Campus

Email Kristi to register – In-Person or Virtual – Notre Dame Campus: Tuesday, Sept 12, 2023 – 4:30 to 6:30pm, FM34 Connected Classroom (Look for FM28 and down the hall at the end)

Therapy Dog Visits (NDC, EDC, Regionals)

Animal and human interactions can offer many positive health benefits. For example, animals can help decrease our cortisol levels (a stress hormone), lower blood pressure, reduce feelings of loneliness, and help boost our mood. They are also fun to have around and offer us to chance to form unique and intimate bonds.

DROP-BY – Notre Dame Campus: Monday, Sept 18, 2023: 11:30am – 1pm, Campus Store Hallway, In-person

DROP-BY – Exchange District Campus: Monday, Sept 25, 2023: 11:30am – 1pm, Atrium of The Roblin Centre, In-person

Regional campuses, check with your Academic Success Coach to find out if Therapy Dogs are coming to your location.

Make Your Own Vision Board (NDC, In-Person)

Treat yourself to two hours of creative fun making your own vision board to set you up for the academic year with a clear vision of your commitments to yourself.

Also known as dream boards, a vision board is a visualization tool which refers to a board of any sort used to build a collage of words and pictures that represent your goals and dreams. These inspirational collages serve as your image of the future – a tangible example, idea or representation of where you are going. By putting a vision board somewhere you can see it every day, you will prompt yourself to visualize your life on a regular basis.

Your vision board becomes a powerful reminder throughout the year. Conversation and community will arise naturally as we each engage in our own creative work.


REGISTER – In-Person Session at the Notre Dame Campus: Thursday, Sept 28, 2023 from 4pm to 6pm in The Cave, DM30.

All materials supplied: Scissors, glue, poster board and variety of magazines. Bring any personalized pictures or graphics with you to include if wanted.

Renters and Home Owners Maintenance Series – Electrical

Unleash your inner DIY enthusiast at our upcoming RRC Polytech Renters and Home Owner Series Electrical Workshop! Gain hands-on experience as you learn about the art of breaker checks, light switch and plug replacements, and unravel the mysteries of 3-way circuits. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your home maintenance skills. Sign up today and electrify your knowledge!

CLASS FULL – Notre Dame Campus: Tuesday, September 26, 2023, 4:30pm to 6:30pm, in B1-29.

INTRAMURAL SPORT

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Intramural sports provide students & staff an opportunity to participate in a variety of recreational sport activities on campus in a safe and supportive environment.  

Choose from our intramural sport of the day or come in anytime between 6:30am & 6:00pm to play a sport of your choice. Intramural teams will be determined at game time, and multiple games will be played during each session.

Drop by anytime during these sport sessions to participate, all skill levels are welcome!   

Want to add another sport? Or another timeslot? Email Davis to become a volunteer Intramural Coordinator and assist in delivering more sports. More information about the Intramural Coordinator position can be found here . 

Basketball (3 on 3)

Tuesdays 4:00 – 5:30pm (North Gym) beginning September 12

Thursdays 4:00 – 5:30pm (North Gym) beginning September 14

Futsal (Indoor Soccer)

Wednesdays 4:00 – 5:30pm (North Gym) beginning September 13

Cricket

Fridays 4:00 – 5:30 (North Gym) beginning September 15

Observe World Suicide Prevention Day: Life Promotion Through Hope

August 29, 2023

Image of four sets of hands holding seedlings. Includes the Winnipeg Suicide Prevention Network Logo and a QR code for registration. With white letters on a teal background, the following text: Winnipeg Suicide Prevention Network invites you to join us for a community gathering to acknowledge World Suicide Prevention Day. Friday September 8, 2023. 9:30am to 11:30am. Norwood Community Centre. 87 Walmer street. Hope and mental health promotion speakers, light refreshments, activities and giveaways.

Each year over 4000 Canadians die by suicide. With each loss, families and communities are left to grieve and ask questions about what may have prevented the tragedy. World Suicide Prevention Day is observed each year as a chance to promote understanding of suicide, bring people together, and create hope through action.

All community members are invited to join the Winnipeg Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) and Campus Well-Being to observe World Suicide Prevention Day at Norwood Community Centre. Together we will explore how to promote life through hope.

The event will include hopeful speakers, light refreshments, activities and giveaways. Elder Paul Guimond, RRC Polytech Elder-in-Residence will be opening the day with a blessing.

Event Details

Date: Friday, September 8, 2023

Time: 9:30 – 11:30 am

Location: Norwood Community Centre, 87 Walmer Street

REGISTER HERE

This event is free and open to the public. Those who have been touched by suicide in their lives, and all those who wish to engage in positive ways to improve their own mental health are encouraged to join us. You do not need any experience with these topics; everyone is welcome.

Please contact Breanna Sawatzky with any questions.

To access free and confidential support around the topic of suicide, students can review resources here and staff can visit staff forum.

Fitness Classes – Fall 2023

August 28, 2023

We have some talented instructors and a great variety of programs to help get you moving toward your fitness goals or take your routine to the next level. Our coaches will provide exercise progressions & modifications to accommodate all fitness levels.

All classes are at the Notre Dame Campus unless otherwise noted. Some fitness & yoga classes are offered virtually and at the Exchange District Campus. 

Class Schedule (September 25 – December 1, 2023)

Mondays  

Tuesdays  

Wednesdays 

Thursdays  

Fridays 

Please register at the links above. All classes are open to students and staff who have valid facility memberships. More information about memberships can be found here.  Most students and staff automatically have a membership. Email Davis for more information.

For more virtual fitness, movement, or wellness workshops, visit MindWell. All programs are free for RRC Polytech staff, students and faculty. Create or sign in to your account to get started.


Class Descriptions

Strength and Conditioning (40 minutes)

  • These fun and high-energy sessions utilize bodyweight exercises, kettlebells, dumbbells, medicine balls, bands, and more for a complete total-body workout. 
  • Improve your mood, health and fitness in this action-packed class that will have you building muscle and fully energized for the rest of your day! 
  • All fitness levels are welcome. Exercise progressions and modifications will be provided throughout each workout to accommodate everyone.  
  • With Coach MG

Muscle and Mobility (40 minutes)

  • Build strength, flexibility, and training knowledge in this self-paced class that focuses on movement quality over quantity.
  • Incorporate a combination of strength exercises with mobility and flexibility drills to counteract our repetitive daily activities.
  • Improve your physical performance and reduce the likelihood of injuries and chronic pain.
  • All fitness levels are welcome. Exercise progressions and modifications will be provided throughout each workout to accommodate everyone.
  • With Coach Justin Ross

Time with a Trainer (15 minutes)

Sign up for this session to have your questions answered about your exercise routine or anything gym and fitness related. This is a great time to learn how to use the weight room, fine-tune your technique, or progress your exercise routine under the supervision of our certified trainers.

  • Build confidence, knowledge, and independence through a more individualized training experience.
  • Great for all fitness levels! Exercise recommendations will be given to meet your needs and goals.
  • Email Davis to schedule this appointment anytime between 6:30am & 4:00pm, Monday to Friday.

Volunteer Information Session

August 28, 2023

Are you a current student who is interested in getting involved on campus? Are you passionate about wellness? Please join our Volunteer Information Session to learn more about some exciting opportunities!  

Info Session Details

Date: Wednesday, Sept. 20

Time: 12:15 – 12:45pm

Location: Connected Classroom, EMP Studios GM33, Notre Dame Campus. Contact Breanna Sawatzky to request a calendar invitation.

Can’t make it in person? Register for the live stream.

Time doesn’t work for you? Ask Breanna for a recording.

Benefits of Volunteering

Upon completion of service, all volunteers will be provided a letter of verification and a certificate of service, and will be invited to an appreciation event. Volunteers who display exceptional service may request letters of recommendation for awards. 

After completing 10-12 hours, volunteers in all roles will be provided a $150 honorarium.

Volunteer Roles

Thrive Ambassador

The Thrive Ambassador will promote Thrive Week in the hallways, library, and cafeteria by distributing print materials and striking up conversations with students. The ideal candidate is friendly in conversation, can communicate clearly, and is conscientious. 
 
The volunteer will complete 10 hours of service, primarily during the month of November. All service is completed on campus with support from the Thrive planning group. Attending a one-hour orientation session is mandatory and is included in the 10 hours of service. 

Resource Promoter

The Resource Promoter will use and enhance their communication skills, increasing student awareness and use of various mental health supports. In this role, the volunteer will promote resources by tabling in hallways, distributing print materials, and striking up conversations with students.  

The volunteer will complete 10 hours of service, ideally one hour per month, October to April. All service is completed on campus with support from the Campus Mental Health Specialist. Attending a one-hour orientation session is mandatory and is included in the 10 hours of service. 

Advisory Group Member

The Advisory Group Member will use and enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, providing thoughtful critiques and formulating ideas for our Healthy Minds Healthy College Strategy. In this role, the volunteer will attend three two-hour meetings (November, January and March) where members share their perspectives, brainstorm ideas, and develop strategies to make RRC Polytech a health-promoting college.  

The volunteer will complete 10 hours of service. All service is on campus with support from the Campus Mental Health Specialist. A one-on-one orientation meeting is mandatory and included in the 10 hours of service. 

Student Intramural Coordinator

(Various Positions Available: Basketball, Cricket, Volleyball, Futsal or Other) 

The Student Intramural Coordinator(s) will use and enhance their leadership and event-management skills, by facilitating monthly intramurals in their sport of interest. The volunteer(s) will promote events by distributing print materials and striking up conversations with students. They will also facilitate event registration, game play, event set-up and take-down.   

Each volunteer will complete up to 12 hours of service: approximately six hours in the fall term (Sept-Dec) and six hours in the winter term (Jan-Apr). A group orientation session is mandatory for all intramural coordinators, at which they will receive support and direction from the Sport and Fitness Supervisor.  

Campus Well-Being June Programs

May 30, 2023

Whether you’ve reached the end of your academic year or are still busy in shops, labs and lectures Campus Well-Being’s June programs are here to support your overall wellness. Pick the activities that are right for you and be sure to mark your calendar.

MOVEMENT

Bike Share Program (NDC)

Campus Well-Being welcomes four new bikes to our Bike Share program – Moose and Bear (large), Eagle (medium) and Goose (small).  Come to the NDC North Gym customer service desk during regular gym hours, fill out a waiver and pick your bike – daytime borrowing only by students and staff.

Learn more about the Bike Share program here.

MindWell Tai Chi and More (Virtual)

Tai Chi is a low impact, easy-to-learn routine that improves health, balance, and relaxation.

What you can expect:
• Low impact exercise that anyone can practice
• Easy-to-learn and helps to improve memory
• Gentle movements with no sweating or straining
• No special clothing or equipment needed

This class is appropriate for beginners and for people with past Tai Chi experience. We will learn about body alignment, gravity, motion, and power. We will practice deep breathing and strategies for relaxing and reducing anxiety. Come have fun and enjoy getting healthy together.

June Theme: Tai Chi: Relieve Stress & Increase Mobility Discover simple movements to improve your physical and mental health, balance and relaxation through the ancient art of Tai Chi.

Register

Visit MindWell for online Tai Chi, Mindful Movement and other wellness classes. All programs are free for RRC Polytech staff, students and faculty. Create your account to get started.

Yoga (Virtual)

From the comfort of your home or office, Holly leads a 30-minute yoga class allowing participants to stretch, breathe and feel good. Suitable for all levels. 

REGISTERWednesdays and Fridays in June, 12:15 to 12:45pm

Registration required. Link will be emailed to registrants separately.

FITNESS

Strength & Conditioning

These fun and high-energy sessions utilize bodyweight exercises and a variety of fitness equipment for a complete total-body workout. All fitness levels are welcome. Our coaches will provide exercise progressions and modifications throughout each workout to accommodate everyone.

REGISTER: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 12:10pm – 12:50pm – Classes run until June 20th.

Please contact Davis with questions.

WELLNESS

Therapy Dog Visit (NDC, In-Person)

Animal and human interactions can offer many positive health benefits. For example, animals can help decrease our cortisol levels (a stress hormone), lower blood pressure, reduce feelings of loneliness, and help boost our mood. They are also fun to have around and offer us to chance to form unique and intimate bonds.

DROP-BY: NOTRE DAME CAMPUS – Wednesday, June 7, 2023: 11:30am – 1pm. Near the fountain/greenery next to Prairie Lights/Lecture Theatres in the Tim Hortons hallway.

Cultivating Financial Freedom (Virtual)

A MindWell Four-Part Series – Cultivating Financial Freedom with Spencer Sherman

Weekly 30-minute sessions begin Thursday, June 1st, 2023

Learn how to shift from doubt and anxiety to confidence and clarity when it comes to finances.

This is an opportunity to transform your financial life – regardless of how much money you have right now. Join Spencer Sherman to:

  • Calculate and Cultivate Enough: How enough impacts earnings and well-being. The surprising connection between an Enough mindset and financial success?
  • Know your Numbers and your Money Filters: How loosening the grip on our inherited beliefs influences spending, savings and investing.
  • Reframe: Use an emotional intelligence practice to rewire our beliefs and autopilot ways with money.
  • Make decisions from evidence: Breaking the money taboo and having a forwarding money conversation.

Register

Visit MindWell for online Take 5 Daily program, mindfulness, movement and other wellness classes. All programs are free for RRC Polytech staff, students and faculty. Create your account to get started.

RECREATION

Sargent Sundae Bike Ride (NDC, In-Person)

Bring your bike to the Notre Dame Campus bus loop on Thursday, June 29 at 12pm to join a special lunch-hour ride to Sargent Sundae on Portage Ave, from noon to 1:30pm. Please register (email Kristi) so we know whom to expect. Remember to bring your helmet, some water, and money to buy an ice cream.

Pop Up Game Room (EDC Outside)

On Friday, June 9, from 1 to 3pm –  Campus Well-Being and Global Access welcome you to pop by and play some indoor/outdoor games like table tennis, giant Jenga, chess and Connect 4, Ladder Toss, Spike Ball and a variety of other games.

SPORT

Drop-In Sport

Our North Gym is open for drop-in sport! Choose from a variety of sport equipment and play between 6:30am and 5:00pm from Monday to Friday. Whether you want to shoot some hoops, kick a soccer ball, or play some badminton, we have everything you need to play.

We have equipment available to play the following sports:

  • Basketball  
  • Cricket     
  • Pickleball 
  • Football
  • Ultimate Frisbee
  • Spikeball
  • Volleyball
  • Badminton 
  • Futsal (Indoor soccer)

Use your RRC ID card to sign out equipment with our gym staff. We’ll provide the equipment, and you’re responsible for set-up and takedown of the activity. Ask our gym staff for help if you’re not sure how to set something up.

All students and staff are welcome to attend. Our open gym time is a great opportunity to get active and make some new friends at the same time.

MENTAL WELL-BEING

Ride Don’t Hide

The 2019 RRC Polytech Ride Don’t Hide Team

Ride Don’t Hide is an annual picnic and community bike ride to raise awareness and funds for mental health supports.

Join the RRC Polytech Ride Don’t Hide team and come to Vimmy Ridge Park on June 25 at 9am to bring our community together, celebrate, raise funds and ride the picturesque Wolseley & Wellington Loop. 

RRC Polytech is sponsoring the registration fees of up to 20 riders, so let’s ride!

Learn more here and contact Breanna Sawatzky to join the team.

MindWell Programs for May

May 1, 2023

We are looking forward to a May of personal growth, fun, and perhaps best of all – less stress. MindWell is offering great programs this month as follows:

  • Building Psychological Safety
  • “Checking In” for Improved Well-Being
  • Physical Fitness for Mental Health
  • Integral Skill of Self-Compassion

Learn more about these programs and sign up below. 

All programs are free for RRC Polytech staff, students and faculty. Create your account to get started.


Building Psychological Safety

Psychological safety is important – and not just in the workplace. However, many people don’t know if they have it, what it is, and how it could benefit them. 

This May, join Coach Jackie each Monday to learn everything you need to know about psychological safety; what it is, what it isn’t, the benefits of it, and an exercise you can do to experiment with and increase psychological safety in your personal and professional environments.

Tuesdays at 11:30am (virtual)

LEARN MORE


“Checking In” for Improved Well-Being

Regularly ‘checking in’ with yourself can yield noticeable results quickly, when it comes to an improved state of mental health and well-being. Every Friday this May, join Ross to discover:

  • What does it mean to check in with yourself?
  • When should you check in?
  • What do you do with the information you receive?
  • Different methods of ‘checking in’ – so you can find one that suits you best.

Fridays at 11am (virtual)

LEARN MORE


Physical Fitness for Mental Health

It’s a common misconception that mental and physical health live separate from each other. In fact, mental and physical health are very closely linked.

This May, join Lucia every Tuesday to explore the ways in which physical exercise chemically influences hormonal and chemical changes in the brain for improved mental health and well-being.

Tuesdays at 11:30am (virtual)

LEARN MORE


Self-Compassion

How we feel about and speak to ourselves is a massive component to positive mental health and well-being. When we can be kind to ourselves – especially when we make mistakes, or feel ‘bad’- we can drastically improve our overall well-being.

This May, join Ellen on a journey of self-compassion and explore ways to deal with difficult feelings, validate our inner experience, and overall be kind to ourselves each day to experience more joy and well-being.

Wednesdays at 11am (virtual)

LEARN MORE


The Power of Storytelling Builds Connections During Mental Health Week

April 30, 2023

May 1-7 is Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Mental Health Week. This year’s theme is #MyStory.

Collectively and individually, we have multiple layers and stories that make us who we are and while each year 1 in 5 Canadians experience a mental illness or mental health issue, 5 in 5 of us – that’s all people – have mental health.

While we all have different experiences, when we share our stories, we build connections and develop deeper understanding and a sense of community with others. By hearing, seeing and learning of others’ experiences in the world through storytelling, we can destigmatize mental health and raise awareness of important issues, while encouraging individuals to seek help and support.

Whether you chose to share your story with someone you trust or listen to others’ stories, there are several ways to participate in Mental Health Week.

Attend a Webinar

Someone I know opened up about their mental health struggles but I don’t know how to help them. What should I do?”

During Mental Health Week, our friends at MindBeacon are hosting an “Ask an Expert” event to discuss how to respond to vulnerability in the most helpful way possible.

Date: Wednesday, May 3rd
Time: 11:00 – 11:30 AM

Register here.


Join a Community Walk

Enjoy a guided 30 minute noon hour walk around the grounds at Notre Dame Campus or around the downtown area at the Exchange District Campus. Take this opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, change your scenery and move your body while connecting with other people.

Exchange District Campus: Tuesday, May 2 – leaving at noon. Meet in the Elgin courtyard by Tim Hortons.

Notre Dame Campus: Wednesday, May 3 – leaving at noon. Meet at the North Gym.

For more information and to join one of the groups, contact Kristi.


Learn About Available Mental Health Supports

We all need support from time to time so it’s important to be aware of the resources that are there for us.

RRC Polytech students are encouraged to explore our student mental health supports and resources. Staff and faculty can visit the staff forum page for more information.

Everyone is welcome to look into the Wellness Together Canada portal for free mental health and substance use support.


Sign Up to Join the RRC Polytech Ride Don’t Hide Team

The 2019 RRC Polytech Ride Don’t Hide team

Ride Don’t Hide is Canada’s largest community bike ride for mental health. Ride to bring mental health out in the open, so no one has to hide.

Ride Don’t Hide will take place on Sunday, June 25 at Vimy Ridge Park and will include a picnic, a bike ride, live music and resource tables. RRC Polytech will be sponsoring the registration fees of up to 20 team members and fundraising is optional.

More information can be found here. Please contact Breanna Sawatzky to join the team.


However you choose to observe mental health week, know that its our stories that make us human.

Campus Well-Being May Programs

April 25, 2023

This May the Campus Well-Being team is please to continue many popular programs, while introducing some new ways to nurture your mental, physical and social health. All staff and students are encouraged to experience the benefits that come with making self-care and community connection a priority.

SPORT & FITNESS

Fitness Classes

We have some talented instructors and a great variety of programs to help get you moving toward your fitness goals or take your routine to the next level. Our coaches will provide exercise progressions & modifications to accommodate all fitness levels.

All classes are at the Notre Dame Campus unless otherwise noted. Some fitness & yoga classes are offered virtually and at the Exchange District Campus. 

Class Schedule (April 24, 2023 – June 15 , 2023)  
 
Mondays  

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Tuesdays  

Wednesdays 

Thursdays  

Fridays 

Please register at the links above. All classes are open to students and staff who have valid facility memberships. More information about memberships can be found here.  Most students and staff automatically have a membership. Contact recreation with any questions

Drop-In Sport

Our North Gym is open for drop-in sport! Choose from a variety of sport equipment and play between 6:30am and 5:00pm from Monday to Friday. Whether you want to shoot some hoops, kick a soccer ball, or play some badminton, we have everything you need to play.

We have equipment available to play the following sports:

  • Basketball  
  • Cricket     
  • Pickleball 
  • Football
  • Ultimate Frisbee
  • Spikeball
  • Volleyball
  • Badminton 
  • Futsal (Indoor soccer)

Use your RRC ID card to sign out equipment with our gym staff. We’ll provide the equipment, and you’re responsible for setup and takedown of the activity. Ask our gym staff for help if you’re not sure how to set something up.

All students and staff are welcome to join. Our open gym time is a great opportunity to get active and make some new friends at the same time.

Please contact Davis if you have any questions about drop-in sport.

MOVEMENT

Weekly Walks (EDC and NDC)

Join Kristi for a 30 minute noon hour walk around the grounds at Notre Dame Campus or around the downtown area at the Exchange District Campus. Take this opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, change your scenery and move your body while connecting with other people.

For more information and to join one of the groups, contact Kristi.

Bike Share Program (NDC)

Campus Well-Being welcomes four new bikes to our Bike Share program – Moose and Bear (large), Eagle (medium) and Goose (small).  Come to the NDC North Gym customer service desk during regular gym hours, fill out a waiver and pick your bike – daytime borrowing only by students and staff.

Learn more about the Bike Share program here.

T’ai Chi (NDC)

T’ai Chi involves the use of daily gentle exercise to improve health with a focus on breathwork. This longevity practice is easy to access and yet profound enough for a lifelong engagement. The universal martial arts movements serve as a focus for the development of mind, body, and spirit (Chi).

REGISTER: Mondays, 12:10pm to 12:55pm, in the South Gym, NDC. All experience levels welcome.

Join Sifu Josh Schafer who has been training in Traditional Chinese Martial Arts (TCMA) for over three decades. His expertise includes Taiji (Yang Lineage), Tiger Claw Gong Fu (Fu Jiow Pai), and Praying Mantis Fist (Tang Lang Ch’uan).

Yoga (EDC)

Join Chaley Martens after school or work for a 45-minute yoga class to unwind from your day. Suitable for all levels and mats are provided.

REGISTER – Exchange District Campus, Thursdays, 4:15pm to 5:00pm in P107 of The Roblin Centre.

Yoga (Virtual)

From the comfort of your home or office, Holly leads a 30-minute yoga class allowing participants to stretch, breathe and feel good. Suitable for all levels. 

REGISTERWednesdays and Fridays, 12:15 to 12:45pm

Registration required. NOTE: Link will be emailed to registrants separately.

WELLNESS

Community Garden (NDC)

Students and staff are invited to plant and tend to a community garden plot, located behind the Notre Dame Campus.

Connect with the earth as you dig in the soil, watch nature grow after planting vegetables and flowers, nurture your spirit while pulling weeds over the summer. Then discover the exhilaration of harvesting and preparing food you helped grow.

For more information and availability:

  • If you are a student, please contact Chloe with the Students’ Association.
  • If you are a staff member, contact Kristi, Recreation and Wellness Coordinator.

NOTE: Kick off starts the week of May 23, 2023, after the May long weekend. Plots available: Full plots 9’x18′ or half size. The Grounds crew will regularly water the garden boxes over the summer, students and staff are responsible for the ongoing upkeep of their garden plot.

RECREATION

Pop-Up Game Room (EDC and NDC)

Campus Well-Being and the Students’ Association welcome you to a new term! Play some giant games like Jenga, Chess, Checkers or Connect 4, shoot some mini hoops or try table tennis*, join some peers in a friendly card game or do some colouring.

DROP-IN – Exchange District Campus: Thursday May 4, 2023 – 10am to 2pm. Dining Hall near Tim Hortons in The Roblin Centre.

DROP-IN – Notre Dame Campus: Thursday, May 11, 2023 – 10am to 2pm. Library Hallway.

*Note: Table tennis and mini hoops only available at NDC.

Paint Night (Virtual)

May 9, 2023 – painting

Art is a powerful form of medicine – with the power to heal, to find insight, stillness and growth, to de-stress and feel in balance. Making art is a safe space to be wild and free.” Kisa MacIssac 

REGISTER – Virtual – Tuesday, May 9, 2023 – 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Join Campus Well-Being, the Students’ Association and instructor Kisa MacIsaac, for an evening of painting and creative discovery. Participants follow a step-by-step process to create a unique painted canvas. There is no cost for this event. All students and staff are welcome to register.  

March 15, 2023 – Virtual Paint Night

Paint Night Kits (limited number, students only): If you are a RRC Polytech student at NDC or EDC, only twenty (20) student paint night kits are available.

Email Kristi for more information.

Board Game Night (EDC and NDC)

Bring your friends and family for an “all welcome” board game night.

DROP-IN – EXCHANGE DISTRICT CAMPUS: Tuesday, May 16, 4pm to 7pm, in the Dining Hall in The Roblin Centre near Tim Hortons.

DROP-IN – NOTRE DAME CAMPUS:  Thursday, May 18, 4pm to 7pm, in The Cave.

Some of the games include: Catan Family Edition, Cranium, Taboo, Cribbage and Crib Wars, Forbidden Island, Monopoly (board game) and Monoply Deal (cards), Uno, Scrabble, Boggle, Yahtzee, Telestrations, Chess and Checkers, Sequence, Hedbanz, Battleship, Jenga, Dominoes and Pictionary.

Contact Kristi if you’d like to reserve a specific game for your group of friends, classmates or staff team.

RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of Anishinaabe, Ininiwak, Anishininew, Dakota, and Dené, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.

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