As we approach the end of the semester, we know that finals can be a stressful time, but we want to remind you that exercise is a powerful tool to help manage stress, boost energy, and improve focus. Even a short walk or some light stretching can make a big difference in your mental and physical well-being as you power through finals. Read on for more resources to help you feel the best in your body through the end of the semester and into summer.

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Mental Recharge: Walking Guided Meditation

Finals week is in full swing, and we know it can be intense. Between the late-night study sessions and exam prep, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why taking a moment to recharge your mind is more important than ever.

Try a Guided Walking Meditation to give yourself a mental break. Led by experts, these sessions combine walking with simple mindfulness techniques to help clear your head, reduce stress, and boost your focus without requiring a lot of time or effort.

Even a short walk can help you feel more grounded and refreshed, so you’re ready to tackle your next study session or exam. After all, a calm mind is just as important as a well-prepared one.

Pick a guided walking meditation of your choice through Insight Timer and find what works best for you.



Take a deep breath, step outside, and recharge—you’ve got this! 🌿👟



👉 Click here to explore walking meditations on Insight Timer.

Transitioning Into Summer (or the "Real World") - You've Got This!

Graduating? Starting a new job? Just trying to figure out what day it is now that classes are over? No matter where you are, this transition can feel both exciting and overwhelming. One of the best ways to stay grounded (and feel good) through it all — Keep moving.

Here are a few easy ways to stay active as you shift into this new season:

• Start small, keep it simple: If you’re easing back into a routine, don’t stress. Even 5–10 minutes of movement counts. Walk, stretch, dance — just get started.
• Break it up: You don’t need a full workout block. Three quick 10-minute bursts throughout the day totally do the trick.
• Make it fun (and social): Invite a friend to try a new class, go hiking, or even join you for a walk-and-talk. Movement doesn’t have to be solo or boring.
• Stretch it out: Incorporating some daily stretching can help with flexibility, posture, and just feeling good overall.
• Take it outside: Sunshine + fresh air = instant mood boost. Try walking meetings, outdoor yoga, or evening strolls to wind down.
• Switch it up: Bored of the same old thing? Mix in new activities like swimming, biking, or something random like pickleball. Keep it interesting!

If you’re settling into a new area, here are a few easy ways to build your new physical activity routine:

• Join the community: Check out local sports leagues, walking clubs, or fitness groups to meet new people and make exercise more enjoyable.
• Check out gyms: If you’re into gym workouts, take advantage of free trials to find a space that feels right for you.
• Get to know your neighborhood: Walking or biking around your area is a great (and active) way to settle in.
• Find your trails: Use apps like AllTrails to discover nearby hikes and nature spots you might not know about yet.
• Make it a habit: Schedule specific times into your new schedule for workouts. If it is in your schedule it is more likely to stick. 

Staying active doesn't have to be complicated, just find what feels fun and sustainable. Moving your body should be something you enjoy, not a chore.

Here’s to a summer full of movement, fresh starts, and feeling like your best self. 🌞

Food is Fuel!

Eating well is essential for our overall health and wellbeing, as food provides the energy and nutrients we need to support our bodies to function at their best. Just like a car needs the right kind of fuel to run smoothly, the food we eat powers our bodies for physical activity and our brains for thinking and learning. However, there is no such thing as the perfect diet - there is only the right diet for you! Check out this resource from UHS Nutrition that helps you figure out what that means for you.

Food isn’t cheap these days! The Food Pantry at MLK Jr. Student Union aims to serve any UC Berkeley student (including graduate, international students, visiting scholars, and postdocs) in need of immediate food assistance. Students can visit up to once per week. All you need is your Cal ID or Cal ID # (if you don't have your physical card yet) and a bag for your food!

Have you heard of CalFresh? It’s a state-wide program that awards up to $292 a month for groceries. It won’t affect your financial aid and you don’t need your parent’s tax return to apply. 2 in 5 students are eligible! Learn more and check your eligibility here. 

Swim into Summer and Beyond!

Did you know swimming is one of the best full-body workouts you can do? Whether you're looking to switch up your routine, cool off, or just want a stress-relieving way to stay active, hitting the pool is a solid move. Luckily for Berkeley students, campus has two great spots to get your laps in: Spieker Pool and the Golden Bear Recreation Center (GBRC).

Spieker Pool is right on campus (Bancroft & Dana) and features a huge 18-lane, 25-yard setup—it’s perfect for lap swim, water walking, or just floating around pretending you're Michael Phelps. GBRC, up on Dwight Way near Clark Kerr, is a more chill vibe with a 6-lane pool and fewer crowds.

Both pools are heated to a comfy 79–80°F, and they’ve got locker rooms, showers, and kickboards available. Pool hours change a bit each week, so it’s best to check the RecWell lap swim schedule before you go. Don’t forget your towel! 🏊‍♂️

Fall 2025 EIM Decal Course

Consider taking the Exercise is Medicine Decal class this upcoming fall semester! Learn the benefits of daily exercise, explore programs on campus to help you stay active, and discover careers in healthcare that promote physical fitness and well-being. Each class is unique and interactive, building upon the connections that exercise is optimal for health, is integral in the prevention and treatment of many medical conditions, and should be regularly assessed and included as part of health care. Class details for Decal courses are released closer to the start of Fall semester. Keep an eye on the Academic Guide and the EIM-OC website for updates.

Kickstart Your Health with EIM Personal Training

Meet with the Exercise is Medicine-On Campus (EIM-OC) Personal Training Program Specialist to kickstart your health and wellness journey. During a fitness consultation, you'll assess your current fitness level, learn how to get started, and create a personalized program tailored to your unique needs.

If you currently engage in less than 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week and fewer than two days of muscle-strengthening exercises, you may qualify for EIM-OC’s fee-offset personal training package, which includes three personal training sessions.

Interested? Complete this form and our Fitness Program Coordinator will contact you to get you started!

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