Due to our northern latitude, many Manitobans experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), while others experience a milder form of winter blues. SAD is a form of depression that occurs mostly during the fall and winter months, when days shorten and sunlight decreases. 

Light Therapy

While regularly getting outside during daylight hours can help to ease this slump, many students and staff need to study or attend classes and meetings indoors when the sun is shining. In these cases, light therapy, sitting near a specialized light each day, is an alternative. Did you know that NDC and EDC campuses both have light therapy stations available for use in the Libraries? Additionally, our regional campuses also have these stations available for use.  

If you’ve been feeling changes to your mood, lower energy levels, or any of the symptoms listed below, you may want to give light therapy a try. Staff and students are invited to work or study at the station anytime the library is open. 

You may also loan a smaller, portable lamp from the circulation desk. That lamp may be used anywhere in the library that is near a power outlet. You’ll find instructions on proper use as well as important notes posted above the lamp. 

To be effective, light from the lamp must enter your eyes indirectly. While your eyes must be open, don’t look directly at the light. Keep your session to 30 minutes, unless otherwise directed by a physician. 

Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) 

• Feeling tired, depressed or sad 
• Increased appetite 
• Craving for carbohydrates and starchy foods 
• Weight gain 
• Sleeping more than usual 
• Social withdrawal 
• Lack of interest in usual activities 
• Inability to concentrate or focus 
• Loss of sexual desire 
• Body aches and pains 

If you feel that you may be experiencing any form of depression, including SAD, please speak to your primary health care provider and/or book and appointment with Student Counselling Services. 

Sources: The Mayo Clinic Website – www.mayoclinic.org and Northern Light Technologies Product Instructions 

Red River College Polytechnic is hosting two Movies for Mental Health workshops that use the power of film to unite folks in community, connection, and conversation. These free events are delivered by a non-profit called Art With Impact, and will be hosted in person!  

The interactive experience will feature safe discussion on mental health, the stigma that frequently surrounds mental illness, and media portrayals of mental health issues. There will also be snacks. Following this will be a live screening of three award-winning short films and therapeutic activities to consciously connect minds and bodies. 

The event will culminate in a panel of lived-experience speakers and mental health resources, empowering participants to share our own stories and access support available at the College and in the community.  

Last year, students who attended found the workshop helped increase awareness of mental health, reduce stigma, and improve knowledge about where to go for help. 

Notre Dame Campus 

Date: Wednesday, November 16 2022 

Time:  11am-1pm

Location:  Black Lecture Theatre

Register here.

Exchange District Campus

Date: Friday, November 18

Time:  noon-2pm

Location:  P107 

Register here.  

For questions or accessibility needs, please contact Breanna. 

This event is sponsored by Campus Well-Being and the RRC Students’ Association. All students and staff are welcome. ASL-English interpretation will be provided.

Interested in sharing your story?

As part of this event, we are seeking students who are open to sharing their personal mental health story in a safe and supportive environment. If you’re interested in learning more about the opportunity to be a panelist, please contact Breanna.

Thrive Week is a time to focus on the importance of balance and self-care in developing positive mental health that supports success in learning and working.

We invite you to take a moment to do something that gets you active, creative, connected or relaxed – whatever it is you need for balance. All events are free and open to students and staff.

For All Campuses, Students and Staff

Participate in one of our events offered virtually: Keynote Presentation: Nature as Self-Care, Crystal Bowl Meditation, Feel the Beat – Music for Wellness and Cooking Night.

Also many in-person events: Therapy Dogs, Japanese Drumming, Keynote Presentation: Nature as Self-Care, Crystal Bowl Meditation, The Zen Zone, Movie Marathon and Library Puzzles/Adult Colouring stations and a Birds Hill Provincial Park hike.

Door prizes as well for most of our events!

Hosted by Campus Well-Being and the Student Association. For questions or accessibility needs, please contact Kristi Dorian. 

NDC and EDC Thrive Week Calendars

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Therapy Dog Visit

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.

Session Details:
NDC – Monday, November 7, 2022: 11:30am – 1pm, STTC, In-person, Drop-in
EDC – Monday, November 7, 2022: 11:30am – 1pm, Atrium, In-person, Drop-in

Keynote Speaker: Nature as Self-Care

Jaime Manness, nurse, RRC Polytech alum and author of two Hike Manitoba guidebooks, gives expert tips on hiking in the province, and shares how time in nature helps her balance life with a high-pressure career.

Session Details:

In-person
Tuesday, November 8, 2022: 12:05 – 12:50pm, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, Roundhouse, E240
*Registration Required, Limited Seating (60)

Light refreshments and door prizes will be provided.

Virtual
*Registration Required
**Link will be emailed to participants closer to the event.

Crystal Music Sound Healing Meditation

Join l’aura Carroll to experience guided imagery meditation with sound healing to help find peace within while you relax with the healing intention and vibration of the crystal singing bowls. l’aura will guide you into nature and peaceful spaces to help you unwind, restore and rejuvenate.

Session Details:
Monday, November 7, 2022: 12:10pm to 12:40pm, Virtual
*Registration Required
**Link will be emailed to participants closer to the event.

Wednesday, November 9, 2022: 12:10 to 12:40pm, NDC Immersion Room, In Person
*Registration Required, Limited Seating (14)

Fubuki Daiko Japanese Drumming Workshop

Discover Japanese taiko drumming with Fubuki Daiko. This introductory workshop includes a demonstration and provides some history of the art form. Participants learn the fundamentals of playing the drum along with a simple song. No musical experience necessary!

Hiroshi Koshiyama and Naomi Guilbert are the founding members of Fubuki Daiko, a full time professional taiko group based in Winnipeg. In addition to performing and touring with their group, they have taught adults and children in Winnipeg for over 25 years. They have also offered workshops and classes to college students and taiko groups in Berea, KY, Minneapolis, Ottawa, Edmonton and Thunder Bay.

Session Details:
Wednesday, November 9, 2022: 4:30pm to 6:00pm, NDC, The CAVE
*Registration Required, Limited Seating (24)

Virtual Cooking Night

From the comfort of your own kitchen, Abby Legaspi leads at-home chefs through the step-by-step recipe for Potato and Mushroom Strudel. Cozy up with good food and lots of fun!

Students may request an ingredient kit (pick up from NDC, you will receive an email confirmation). Supply kits are limited, so register early.

Session Details:
Thursday, November 10, 2022: 6pm to 8pm – Virtual
*Registration Required
**Link will be emailed to participants closer to the event.

Birds Hill Provincial Park Hike

Spend some time in nature – join fellow students and staff for a guided walk through the Chickadee Trail at Birds Hill Park. We will spend some time bird watching, walking through the trails, and enjoying hot chocolate.

Session Details:
Friday, November 11, 2022: Chartered Bus (Limited Seating) OR Meet at Chickadee Trail.

Roundtrip Chartered Bus – 9:45am to 1pm
*Registration Required, Limited Seating (54)

Round trip transportation to Birds Hill Park is provided free of charge.

Meet at the Notre Dame Campus bus loop at 9:45am where we will be transported together by chartered bus. You may also register family members to attend (space permitting). We should return to the NDC bus loop by 1pm.

OR

Meet at Chickadee Trailhead at 10:40am in Birds Hill Provincial Park.

Dress appropriately for the weather. The walk will be rescheduled in case of heavy winds, rain or hail.

Weekly Fitness and Yoga Classes

Come try a fitness or yoga class to get you moving towards your goals or take your routine to the next level. Classes are suitable for all fitness levels and take place at the Notre Dame Campus unless otherwise noted. 

Class Schedule (Oct 3, 2022 – Dec 1, 2022)  

Class descriptions & more information can be found here  

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

The following requirements are in place: 

• A valid Student or Staff I.D. card is required each visit. 
• All members are required to complete the Informed Consent form in HUB prior to using the facility. 
• All members must abide by the rules and etiquette. 

Drop-in & Intramural Sports 

Our North Gym is open for drop-in sports! Come choose from a variety of options. We have the following times available for the month of November: 

• Monday-Friday, 6:30am – 5:00pm 

Check out our Intramural Sport Schedule to sign up and come play organized sports. 

Email Davis if you’d like to volunteer to help coordinate and play a sport of your choice.  

Recreation and Wellness Events

Meditation and Quiet Contemplation Room 

Relax. Lie down or sit. Breathe. Listen to soothing nature sounds, bring your own guided meditation or watch the peaceful vistas projected all around you.  

Campus Well-Being and EMP welcome you to take a break in the Immersion Room. Yoga mats and cushions will be available.  

Drop-in Dates: November 2, 16 and 30, 2022 – Wednesdays, 12 to 1pm 

Please note: There is a room capacity limit (14). Please enter the room quietly and remain silent to respect others’ quiet contemplations. No food is allowed in the room. 

Thrive Week

Thrive Week – November 7 to 11, 2022, is a time to focus on the importance of balance and self-care in developing positive mental health that supports success in learning and working. 

We invite you to take a moment to do something that gets you active, creative, connected or relaxed – whatever it is you need for balance. All events are free and open to students and staff. 

Participate in one of our events offered virtually: Keynote Presentation: Nature as Self-Care, Crystal Bowl Meditation, Feel the Beat – Music for Wellness and Cooking Night.

Also many in-person events: Therapy Dogs, Japanese Drumming, Keynote Presentation: Nature as Self-Care, Crystal Bowl Meditation, The Zen Zone, Movie Marathon and Library Puzzles/Adult Colouring stations and a Birds Hill Provincial Park hike.

Visit THRIVE WEEK for more info and to register.

Hosted by Campus Well-Being and the Student Association. For questions or accessibility needs, please contact Kristi Dorian. 

Practice Creativity – Paint With Us! 

“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 

Join Campus Well-Being, the Student 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. 

Register online:  Exchange District Campus (The Roblin Centre TRC) on November 29 and Notre Dame Campus on November 30, 2022 – both 4:30 to 6:30 pm. 

For questions or accessibility needs, please contact Kristi Dorian, Recreation and Wellness Coordinator, Campus Well-Being. 

Mental Health Awareness

Movies for Mental Health

Movies for Mental Health is an arts-based mental health workshop that focuses on empowering students to gain a better understanding of mental health within their environment.

Knowing that art speaks the language of our interior worlds, we harness film to engage with the vital topic of mental health and mental illness.

The event also connects students with mental health resources available to them, empowering them to seek support and heal as individuals and communities. Door prizes and light refreshments will be provided.

NDC: Wednesday, November 16, 11am-1pm, Black Lecture Theatre. Register here.

EDC: Friday, November 18, noon-2pm, P107. Register here.

“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

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 will be supplied. All students and staff are welcome to register.

Kisa, a Métis mother of three, an artist and an educator, and an RRC grad, residing on Treaty 1 Territory, also has ties to the Métis community of manitou sahkahikan (Lac Ste Anne, Alberta), and also is part settler (Scottish, Irish, French).

This month’s painting is inspired by Otter Falls, MB. Kisa provides a variety of ideas and suggestions, encouraging each participant to be courageous, to play and to enjoy the painting process. Each painter leaves with something truly unique that they created!

NDC

Date: Wednesday, October 19

Time: 4:30-6:30pm

Location: The Cave

Register Here

EDC

Date: Thursday, October 20

Time: 4:30-6:30pm

Location: Dining Hall

Register Here

Recreation

CFL Weekly Winning Picks

Every Monday, select the teams you think will win this week’s games and submit them to be entered for a prize. This contest will be running until the Grey Cup so you can submit for each week. Registration and team picks can be submitted by email to recreation@rrc.ca

Pop Up Ping Pong

Come drop by for a couple of rounds of ping pong. All skill levels welcomed, and all equipment is provided. No registration required, but you can email recreation@rrc.ca with any questions.

• EDC (Elgin Plaza) Monday, October 17^th, noon-1:00pm 
• NDC (North Gym) Monday, October 24^th, noon-1:00pm 

Wellness

Virtual Cooking Night

For this virtual cooking night, on the menu will be sweet potato casserole. The recipe and ingredient list will be sent following your registration. Students may request an ingredient kit and pick this up from NDC. Supply kits are limited, so register early. Registrations can be submitted by email to recreation@rrc.ca  

Virtual (MS Teams) Thursday, October 6^th, 6:00pm-8:00pm 

Paint Night

On paint night you will be guided by a skilled instructor to enjoy a relaxing and creative art-making experience. Supplies and materials will be provided but are limited. You must register early to secure your spot by emailing recreation@rrc.ca. 

• NDC (The Cave) Wednesday, October 19th, 4:30pm-6:30pm 
• EDC (Dining Hall) Thursday, October 20th, 4:30pm-6:30pm 

In-Person Yoga

Come move, stretch, breathe and feel good. These drop-in classes are suitable for all levels. Mats are provided. 

• NDC (South Gym) every Tuesday 4:00-4:30pm 
• EDC (P107) every Thursday 12:15-12:45pm  
• NDC (Immersion room*) – Wednesday, October 5^th, noon – 1pm *Special immersive experience in GM33 

Virtual Yoga

Join Holly on Fridays for a lunch hour practice in your own space from 12:15-12:45pm. Register for each class that works for you. 

Register for all yoga sessions (virtual and in-person), through our new booking system.

Drop-In Sport

Our gyms are open for drop-in sport. Come play during our staffed hours (call our front desk at 204-632-2399 for day-to-day availability). Otherwise, we have the following drop-in slots scheduled for the month of October: 

• Pickleball – Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11am-1pm, South Gym
• Basketball – Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 11am-1pm, North Gym

Fitness Classes

We are thrilled to announce the rollout of our fall fitness classes. We have some very talented instructors and a great variety of programs to help get you moving towards your fitness goals or take your routine to the next level. Check out all the class options and sign up today!  

Strength and Conditioning

• 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 Kwene in the morning and coach Davis at lunch.  

Find class times and register here:

30 Minute Classes

40 Minute Classes

Muscle and Mobility

• To have our body functioning well and feeling good this class begins with a thorough warm-up and mobility training to counteract our repetitive daily activities. The second half of this class includes a short strength workout to compliment the mobility drills practiced in class. Combining these elements will allow us to build strength and resiliency though a full range of motion. This will help to improve our physical performance and reduce the likelihood of injury or chronic pain.
• Justin welcomes all levels of fitness to this class and will provide exercise modifications through the workout to accommodate everyone in attendance.  
• With Coach Justin & Adam 

Find class times and register here:

40 Minute Classes

Time with a Trainer (Drop in)

Drop by the Loft Fitness Centre to be coached through our strength workout of the day or have your questions answered about 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.  

• Great for all fitness levels! Exercise modifications will be given to meet your needs and goals. 
• Workouts of the day are written on a whiteboard and completed at your own pace with emphasis on movement quality over quantity. 
• Build confidence, knowledge, and independence through a more individualized training experience.
• Sign up now and come by anytime during the scheduled timeslot. Workouts take approximately 30 minutes, but can be adjusted. You can also book in to ask questions or receive coaching on your own routine.  
• With Coach Matt in the morning and Coach Davis at lunch.   

Register for a timeslot here.

We are thrilled to announce the rollout of our fall fitness classes. We have some very talented instructors and a great variety of programs to help get you moving towards your fitness goals or take your routine to the next level.  

Class Times

• Mondays – 7:00am, 11:10am, 12:10pm  
• Tuesdays – 7:00am, 11:10am, 12:10pm 
• Wednesdays – 7:00am, 11:10am, 12:10pm 
• Thursdays – 7:00am, 11:10am, 12:10pm 
• Fridays – TBD 

Fitness classes will start the first week of October. Stay tuned for a detailed class descriptions next week! Please email Davis Chase with any questions or for more information. 

Extended Gym Hours 

Want to work out later in the evenings or on the weekend? Now you can! Just in time for fall, weekday fitness centre hours have been expanded and weekend hours have been added.

Hours

• Monday – Friday: 6:30am – 8:00pm 
• Saturday & Sunday: 9:00am – 3:00pm 

These hours apply at both the Notre Dame Campus and Exchange District Campus.

Orientations

Sign up for a fitness centre orientation to receive a detailed walkthrough of the gym. This is a great opportunity to tour the facility, learn how to use & adjust the exercise equipment, and have all your fitness related questions answered. 

These spaces are for everyone, regardless of fitness level or prior experience so don’t be shy and book an orientation today by emailing Davis Chase.

Orientation Schedule

Notre Dame Campus – Mondays & Wednesdays at 11:15am & 12:15pm 

• Sep 14, Sep 19, Sep 21, Sep 26, Sep 28 

Exchange District Campus – Thursdays at 11:15am & 12:15pm 

• Sep 15, Sep 22, Sep 29 

Art has been used for thousands of years as a way to express how we feel. Did you know that art can also be used to de-stress and allow the mind an opportunity to be free from thinking? Some artists have described that creating art puts them into a state of flow, where no space or time seems to exist; a place where art and artist become one. 

Painting isn’t just for those who can pick up a brush and create a realistic landscape. It is a method to connect with our inner self and create something of self-expression. There is no judgement in art, as it is a subjective experience. It is an activity that anyone can do and because we are all artists on some level, we can all create art.  

Come join Campus Well-Being and show off your inner Picasso. Instructor and RRC Polytech grad, Kisa MacIsaac will lead participants through a step-by-step process to create a unique painted canvas. There is no cost for this event and light snacks will be supplied. All students and staff are welcome to register.

Details

Notre Dame Campus

Date: Tuesday, September 20, 2022 

Time: 4:30-6:30pm 

Location:  The Cave 

Exchange District Campus

Date: Monday, September 26, 2022 

Time: 4:30-6:30pm 

Location:  The Dining Hall, Roblin Centre 

We will be providing painting supplies for the event, but registration is required to book your supply kit. Register early with Mario De Negri as there are a limited number. 

What’s your favorite board game? Are there some games that are nostalgic for you, bringing up fond memories of sitting around the table playing with family and friends? Board games are a great way to share and interact while building lasting memories. 

Board games are an easy ice breaker when meeting new people. It doesn’t matter if it’s a game you’ve played before or one you’re trying for the first time – anyone can sit down and get right into the joy of play.

If you want to re-connect with some of those feelings and find some new friends along the way, come join Campus Well-Being and the Students’ Association for our afternoon of playing a few board games.  We’ll have a variety of games that you are welcome to pull out and enjoy.   

Date: Thursday, September 15, 2022 

Time: 4:00pm – 6:00pm 

Location:  The Cave, NDC 

Registration: By emailing Mario De Negri.