Being a grad student can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Achieving and sustaining wellness is an active and dynamic process which involves becoming aware of and taking steps toward a healthier, happier, and more satisfying life. Here are some resources to help you find the right balance.
Wellness at the campus level
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign adopted the Okanagan Charter as part of Health Promoting Campuses Network on February 13, 2025. As an institution, we have a unique opportunity and responsibility to provide transformative learning opportunities, engage the voices of diverse stakeholders in an effort to realize collective impact, develop new knowledge and understanding, lead by example, and advocate to decision-makers for the benefit of society.
wellness.illinois.edu is the campus hub for resources and programming. The Student Wellness Calendar collects campus events related to all dimensions of wellness.
Eight Dimensions of Wellness
The eight dimensions present a framework for interconnected aspects wellness. Finding ways to attend to all eight dimensions with a focus on building habits and improvement over perfection supports your overall wellbeing. You'll find resources across campus - here we'll highlight a few - physical, mental, emotional
Campus Recreation provides a welcoming environment with sustainable facilities and programs that inspire the University community to engage in recreation and wellness opportunities. There are so many opportunities to explore: workout facilities, group fitness classes, the ice arena, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, biking, a rock climbing wall, outdoor gear rentals, nutrition and cooking classes, the reflection room, intramural and club sports, personal training.
Students can register for one credit Health and Kinesiology courses in ice skating, volleyball, badminton and more!
McKinley's Health Education team offers an online guide to relaxation exercises, in addition to individual appointments and group workshops on stress management.
Nutrition and food resources include the Instructional Kitchen at the ARC with cooking classes and coaching, the Nutrition Education program at McKinley, where you can meet with a registered dietician and the Food Assistance Program.
Feeling stressed? McKinley’s Relaxation Exercises can be used directly from the computer (you will need audio capability), or they can be downloaded to your MP3 player.
Tuesday @ 7 Workshops presented by the Counseling Center Paraprofessionals focus on different topics that students may encounter, such as stress, anxiety, loneliness, long-distance relationships, among others. Check the website for offerings.
The Counseling Center offers a Graduate Students' Group, a Graduate Women's Group, and an Older Students Group (for students over 25!) as well as identity-based groups
Regenerating Spaces
Museums, Exhibitions & Performance Spaces - Visit regenerating spaces on campus for a short break or a social event with friends
- Krannert Center for the Performing Arts - Krannert Uncorked, $10 student tickets
- Krannert Art Museum - visit anytime or participate in a special event - Rest Lab
- Spurlock Museum -
- Japan House and Arboretum
- Allerton Park & Retreat Center