The People and Culture team is bringing back the SMU Staff/Faculty Wellness Challenge from November 17–23! This week-long initiative builds on the success of our May challenge and is designed to help faculty and staff pause, recharge, and develop healthy habits as we move into the busy holiday season.
This Wellness Challenge has a special focus on financial well-being, mindful habits, and preparing for the holidays. Activities are flexible, inclusive, and achievable—encouraging individual participation or small teams (up to five members).
How It Works:
Participants can complete daily wellness activities across a variety of themes including mindfulness, physical activity, nutrition and financial health. Examples include guided breathing or meditation, reviewing spending habits, trying a new SMUfit class, or sharing a healthy budget-friendly recipe.
Either Individual or Team participation is available! Teams who share a photo of their group activity with wellness@smu.ca will be entered into a draw for the “Team Spotlight” bonus prize.
Registration invitations will be shared during the week of November 10. Once registered, participants will receive a separate email with a link to their personal activity tracker (Qualtrics) and additional instructions for completing the challenge.
Let’s take this opportunity to come together as a community, focus on well-being, and close out the year on a positive, healthy note!
Featured Wellness Session: “Holiday Nutrition” – Friday, November 21
As part of this year’s challenge, join us for an engaging Holiday Nutrition session with SMU Dietician Melanie Ingram, who will share practical strategies for enjoying the season while making balanced food choices.
Learn tips for reading and understanding nutrition labels, planning ahead for festive gatherings, and maintaining energy and wellness through the holidays.
Choose the session that fits your schedule:
12:00–1:00 p.m. – Loyola 273 or virtual (link)
3:00–4:00 p.m. – Loyola 275 or virtual (link)