Reviving Healthy Habits: Why Good Days Are Making a Comeback

health and wellness event, 'Unil Health Days,' returns to EPFL and UNIL campuses in 2025, offering resources for mental and physical wellbeing.">

September 24, 2024

Lausanne, Switzerland – A major initiative focused on bolstering Physical and Mental health is set to unfold across the campuses of EPFL and the University of Lausanne (UNIL) in the autumn of 2025. The comprehensive ‘Unil Health Days’ will run from September 29 to October 3 at EPFL, resuming from October 6 to 9 at UNIL, culminating in a dedicated conference on innovation in Mental Health on October 10.

Focus on Holistic Wellbeing

The 2025 event encourages participants to delve into their emotional landscapes and nurture kindness towards themselves and others. Recognizing the challenges of maintaining Mental and Physical Health in today’s fast-paced world, these Health Days aim to inspire thoughtful consideration of academic culture, leadership styles, and actionable strategies to foster individual and collective wellbeing within demanding environments. Recent studies by the world Health Institution indicate a growing need for Mental Health support among young adults, making initiatives like this notably crucial.

Event Highlights: A Diverse Program

The ‘Unil health Days’ will feature a multifaceted program designed to cater to a wide range of interests and needs. Key components include a “Healthy Village” with assessment stands, a series of insightful conferences, interactive workshops, and invigorating physical activities.

The Healthy Village: Assessments and Dialog

For three days at EPFL and four days at UNIL,a vibrant “healthy Village” will host various stands. Attendees can access basic health assessments – including anthropometric measurements, mobility evaluations, and cardiovascular screenings – and participate in open dialogues and exchange sessions.

Conferences and Roundtables: Exploring Key Themes

Several conferences and roundtables will explore critical themes relating to wellbeing.Topics include optimizing wellbeing within the academic sphere, the importance of sleep, the impact of constant connectivity, and the art of skillful decision-making. Did You Know? Research from Harvard Medical School consistently demonstrates a strong correlation between adequate sleep and improved academic performance.

Workshops: Practical Tools for Wellbeing

Parallel workshops will equip participants with practical tools to manage their emotions,alleviate stress,and enhance self-confidence. A unique workshop will also offer a past perspective on medical practices and care.

active Sessions and Mindfulness

Throughout the two-week period, 20-minute active sessions will energize participants, and an introductory mindfulness meditation session will promote inner peace. The event commences with a traditional cross-country run on September 29, offering routes of 5.6km and 11.2km connecting the two Lausanne campuses.

Pro Tip: Incorporate short mindfulness breaks into your daily routine, even just 5-10 minutes, to reduce stress and improve focus.

Registration Details

Participation in most event components requires registration via the official event website.Dialogue stands within the “Healthy Village” are open to all without pre-registration.

Organization and Accessibility

The ‘Unil Health Days’ are organized by the Sport Health Unil+EPFL service, EPFL, and the University of Lausanne. This event is entirely free and open to all members of the UNIL and EPFL communities.

Here’s a quick overview of the event:

Event Component	Dates	Location
Healthy Village	Sept 29-oct 3 & Oct 6-9	EPFL & UNIL Campuses
conferences & Roundtables	Throughout Event	EPFL & UNIL Campuses
Workshops	Throughout Event	EPFL & UNIL Campuses
Cross-Country Run	September 29	Route between EPFL & UNIL
Mental Health conference	october 10	TBD

The Importance of Prioritizing Mental Health

In today’s demanding academic and professional landscapes, prioritizing Mental Health is no longer a luxury – it’s a necessity. Studies have shown that investing in wellbeing can lead to increased productivity, improved relationships, and a greater overall quality of life. Institutions like EPFL and UNIL are demonstrating leadership by proactively addressing these needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Unil Health Days event? It’s a comprehensive series of events focused on promoting physical and mental wellbeing for the UNIL and EPFL communities.
• Is the Unil Health Days event free to attend? Yes,participation is entirely free for all members of UNIL and EPFL.
• Do I need to register to attend all the events? Most events require registration, but the dialogue stands in the Healthy Village are open to all.
• What kind of workshops will be offered during Unil Health Days? Workshops will cover topics such as emotion regulation, stress management, and building self-confidence.
• Where can I find more information about the event schedule? A detailed program and registration information are available on the official event website.
• Is there a physical activity included in the event? Yes, a traditional cross-country run will kick off the event on September 29th.

What aspects of the Unil Health Days program resonate most with you, and how do you believe such initiatives can best support student wellbeing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

How can small, consistent changes in daily routine, like those mentioned in Sarah’s story, contribute to significant improvements in overall wellbeing?

The Shift in Wellness Priorities

Over the past few years, we’ve collectively experienced unprecedented disruption. This led to many of us letting healthy habits slip – prioritizing survival over self-care. But there’s a noticeable shift happening now. People are actively seeking ways to reclaim their well-being,and “good days” – those filled wiht energy,focus,and a sense of calm – are becoming the goal again. This isn’t about striving for perfection; it’s about building lasting routines that support a healthier, happier life. We’re seeing a surge in interest in preventative healthcare, mindful living, and holistic wellness.

Understanding the Impact of Diet on Daily Life

A cornerstone of reviving healthy habits is, unsurprisingly, nutrition. As the World Health Organization highlights, a healthy diet is fundamental to overall health, protecting against malnutrition and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer [https://www.who.int/health-topics/healthy-diet]. It’s not just about weight management; it’s about fueling your body for optimal performance.

Here’s how your diet directly impacts your daily experience:

* Energy Levels: Consistent energy throughout the day, avoiding afternoon slumps.

* Mood Regulation: Stable blood sugar levels contribute to emotional balance.

* Cognitive Function: Essential nutrients support brain health and focus.

* Sleep Quality: Diet influences hormone production, impacting sleep patterns.

Key Dietary Changes for a Boost:

* Prioritize Whole Foods: Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

* Limit Processed Foods: Reduce intake of sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats.

* Hydrate Consistently: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

* Mindful Eating: Pay attention to hunger cues and savor your meals.

The power of Movement: Beyond Exercise

Physical activity is often framed as “exercise,” which can feel daunting.But reviving healthy habits means reframing movement as an integral part of daily life. This isn’t necessarily about intense gym sessions (though those are great if you enjoy them!). It’s about finding ways to incorporate more activity into your routine.

Simple Ways to Move More:

1. Walk whenever possible: Take the stairs,park further away,or go for a walk during your lunch break.
2. Incorporate active hobbies: Gardening, dancing, hiking, or playing sports.
3. Desk exercises: Simple stretches and movements you can do at your workstation.
4. Strength training: Incorporate bodyweight exercises or light weights 2-3 times per week.

The benefits extend beyond physical health. Movement releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects, reduces stress, and improves sleep. consider yoga for stress relief or pilates for core strength as accessible options.

Prioritizing Mental and Emotional Wellbeing

Good days aren’t just about physical health; thay’re deeply connected to our mental and emotional state. The stress and uncertainty of recent years have taken a toll on many, leading to increased rates of anxiety and depression. Reviving healthy habits must include prioritizing mental wellbeing.

Strategies for Mental Wellness:

* Mindfulness & Meditation: Even 5-10 minutes a day can make a difference.

* Journaling: A powerful tool for processing emotions and gaining self-awareness.

* Social Connection: Nurture relationships with loved ones.

* Setting Boundaries: Learn to say “no” to commitments that drain your energy.

* Digital Detox: Regularly disconnect from screens to reduce stimulation.

* Seek professional Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a therapist or counselor if you’re struggling. Mental health support is crucial.

sleep: The Foundation of Recovery

Often overlooked, sleep is arguably the most significant habit to revive.Chronic sleep deprivation impacts everything from mood and cognitive function to immune health and weight management.Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

Improving Sleep Hygiene:

* Consistent sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up around the same time each day, even on weekends.

* Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Take a warm bath, read a book, or listen to calming music.

* Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool.

* Limit Screen Time Before Bed: The blue light emitted from electronic devices can interfere with sleep.

* Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol Before Bed: These substances can disrupt sleep patterns.

Real-World Example: The Power of Small Changes

I recently worked with a patient, Sarah, a busy working mother who felt overwhelmed and tired. She hadn’t prioritized her health in years. We started with small, achievable goals: adding a 20-minute walk to her daily routine, swapping sugary drinks for water, and practicing 5 minutes of mindfulness each morning.Over time, these small changes compounded, leading to significant improvements in her energy levels, mood, and overall wellbeing. Sarah’s story illustrates that reviving healthy habits doesn’t require a complete overhaul; it’s about making consistent, sustainable choices.

The Role