The second Mind, Body, Spirit Day of spring 2021 will take place on Wednesday, March 24, to provide students and, to the extent possible, faculty, with a well-deserved day of rest during a semester in which SUNY has cancelled spring break due to COVID-19 concerns.
There will be no class meetings of any modality on March 24, and we have asked faculty not to make assignments due on or immediately after our three Mind, Body, Spirit Days as well.
Offices will be open, but we hope that staff are also practicing self-care, whether they are telecommuting, working on campus, or using accrued time off with supervisor’s approval.
The College will again offer programs, resources and events, both on-campus and remotely, to inspire and support members of our community to spend this day in ways that promote our themes of kindness and joy.
Students can see a full list of March 24 events on Engage (and be sure to check back for updates!). Here we share some of the programs and ideas for our next Mind, Body, Spirit Day.
Events for students
There’s lots to do at the Athletic & Wellness Center on March 24, including Tie Dye at noon (bring your own white shirt!), a holistic moving class at 2 p.m., and yoga for self-compassion at 4:30 p.m. (to be held outside, weather permitting)
Enjoy the early spring air! After a long, cold, snowy winter, spending some time outside as the weather warms is one of the most joyful experiences we can think of. Prevention Coordinator Jaclyn Cirello will lead a Joyful Walk Around Campus starting at the AWC at noon.
Have you always dreamed of creating your own teddy bear? The Student Association is hosting a Stuff-a-Plush Party from 2 – 5 p.m. at the Multipurpose Room (while supplies last!)
Express your gratitude! You can stop by the Office of Alumni Relations’ Gratitude Table in the Atrium from 2 – 4 p.m. to share kindness and joy by showing someone you appreciate them.
Connect with the Psychological Counseling Center: “Let’s Talk,” the weekly, casual chat-with-counselors will offer an extra session from 12 – 2 p.m., focusing on dealing with stresses and how to build Kindness and Joy into your life. Then, PCC Director Gwen Lloyd will host a special Late Night Chat for Women of Color (Zoom link to follow).
Get creative! Drop by the Atrium between 3 – 5 p.m. to pick up a take-and-make Origami Kit (while supplies last!)
Suggestions for faculty
Tell a colleague you are grateful for them (especially essential staff)
Walk your friendly dog, cat, rabbit, etc. on campus – seeing animals even at a distance can brighten someone’s day (especially when they are missing a pet at home)
Practice a random act of kindness (Need ideas? Here’s a great place to start!)
Use the Kudos function in Starfish to let students know where they are excelling
Pay attention to your own wellbeing needs and ask for help if you need it (support is available from the Employee Assistance Program)
As we approach the home stretch of the spring 2021 semester, we hope that these Mind, Body, Spirit Days continue providing members of our community with opportunities for restoration, fellowship and fun.
