The Checkup

Welcome to The Checkup, UMass Boston's Monthly Wellness Digest!

Did you know that laughter is one of the best medicines? Not only does laughing relieve stress, soothe muscle tension, and increase oxygen intake, but it also strengthens your immune system, relieves pain, and boosts your mood. Here's your daily dose:

How do you fix a broken pumpkin?

...with a pumpkin patch!

November Spotlight:

Gratitude, Health, and Awareness

November is a month for gratitude, reflection, and care. As we cozy up for colder weather and head into the final stretch of the semester, it's the perfect time to slow down, check in, and show a little extra kindness - to yourself and to others.

This month, check out @UMBWellness on Instagram as we recognize American Diabetes Month, Movember (Men's Health), Lung Cancer Awareness Month, National Epilepsy Awareness Month, and more - all powerful reminders that small, everyday actions (like a short walk, a healthy meal, or a moment to breathe) can make a big difference.

As flu season and the holidays roll in, keep it simple: rest, hydrate, move, and check in with your mind and body. Wellness isn't a one-size-fits-all - but it always starts with you.

Keep scrolling for this month's events, drop-ins, and some cozy wellness inspiration! 💙

Upcoming Happenings

Here's a glimpse of some of our events coming up - don't forget to check UMBeInvolved for more!

Flu & COVID Vaccine Clinic

Tuesday, November 5, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., Campus Center Upper Level (by the Info Desk)

It's officially cold and flu season (and nobody's got time for that!). Stop by for your annual flu and COVID vaccines - quick, easy, and open to all students, staff, and faculty. Book online here, or students can make an flu shot appointment via the My Health Beacon Portal.

A Message to Our Heroes

Thursday, November 6, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m., McCormack 1st Floor Lobby (Veterans Center Entrance)

Join us in honoring our campus veterans this Veterans Day (Tuesday, November 11). Visit our table to share your appreciation - write a note for our Support Wall or record a message using our Wind Phone.

Kindness Rocks

Thursday, November 13, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Campus Center Terrace

In honor of World Kindness Day, take a moment for yourself and nurture your own creativity and reflection with Kindness Rocks, where you can paint a rock with words of hope, compassion, or encouragement.

FlossTime Dental Clinic

Tuesday, December 2 - Thursday, December 4, UHS Clinic (Quinn 2nd Floor)

Skip the commute and the wait - FlossTime brings dental care right to campus! Cleanings, checkups, and convenience all in one. Book your appointment now and keep your smile bright.

Click Here to View Our Event Calendar

Recurring Drop-Ins:

Your Weekly Wellness Lineup

Looking to connect, unwind, or recharge? Click on any of the following images for more information on our semesterly drop-ins!

View Upcoming Drop-Ins Here

Food for Thought...

Take a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the little things... your morning coffee, your favorite playlist, or that first deep breath after class or a meeting.

What You Can Do This Month

Schedule your flu shot (& remind a friend!)

Pledge to be smoke-free on the Great American Smokeout.

Visit a KORU Mindfulness Drop-In Session.

Write down 3 things you're thankful for each day.

A Look Back at October

Breast Cancer Awareness Day

Thank you to everyone who joined the Dana-Farber Mammogram Van! Together, we helped campus members access easy, preventative screenings.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Big thanks to DOVE, Inc. for tabling on-campus and to everyone who participated in our annual Empty Place at the Table display - honoring survivors and raising awareness.

Halloween Week: Creepin' It Real

Our Peer Health Educators brought candy, condoms, and trivia to the Campus Center for a fun, educational Halloween bash!

Did You Know?

UHS is growing! Meet our new Peer Health Educators: Jasmine, Bri, and Travis! You'll see them around campus helping with events, social media, and all things wellness.