Physical wellness

Big group of UDM alumni, students and friends getting ready for Detroit bike tour

Physical wellness can mean optimal nutrition, reducing unhealthy behaviors such as alcohol and other substance misuse, and incorporating activities that enable vitality in one’s life.

Nutrition

To optimize our performance, nutrition is key. Our food choices impact energy levels and our future health. Luckily, there are resources to help us meet our nutritional goals.

Have you heard of diets specific to your cultural heritage? You may have heard of the Mediterranean diet, but have heard of the African Heritage, Latin American Heritage or Asian Heritage diets? Check out the Oldways site for recipes, video tutorials, programs and menu planning.

Eating should be fun and enjoyable!

Students and employees on both the McNichols and Law Campuses love The Big Salad. Also, on the McNichols Campus you'll find many healthy options at Tommy’s Café.

Hydration

Most people will stay well-hydrated just by drinking when thirsty. For others, a goal for water intake can be helpful.

As a general guideline, it is suggested an individual should drink, on average, three liters of water a day. However, this may vary from person to person, so please consult with your healthcare provider for personalized instructions.

Meeting your goal: Detroit Mercy offers convenient water refilling stations at each campus, so bring your reusable water bottle and start a hydration schedule today!

Movement

Physical activity should be done every day to help maintain our physical and mental health, improve our mood and performance. Consistent movement decreases your chances of chronic illness, such as heart disease, dementia, and diabetes.

Current physical activity guidelines for Americans, set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, recommend twice weekly muscle strengthening activities and 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week for adults.

For individuals requiring accessibility, the CDC offers an exceptional website with physical activity for all or check out the free fitness videos from the National Center for Health, Physical Activity and Disability (CHAD) for adapted yoga, resistance band training and more.

Get started today by thinking of an activity that brings you joy and take action:

  • Why not get a “prescription” for your fitness? Sign up for the free ParkRx program to find local parks and trails.
  • Students and employees can enjoy the Student Fitness Center on the McNichols campus. University Recreation (URec) offers programs and classes, fitness equipment, intramural sports and its own Adventure Series. 
  • Check out the Michigan Move More program.
  • Each February, you can help Detroit Mercy out-move other Jesuit Universities during the Go Move Challenge.

Reducing unhealthy behaviors

By prioritizing the well-being of our university community and providing support to reduce unhealthy behaviors, we create an environment that embraces the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, irrespective of their background or identity.

Many people think of unhealthy behaviors as alcohol and other drugs, but what about addiction to caffeine or shopping, addiction to TV or eating? Many behaviors can diminish an optimal life when not performed in moderation.

First, please recognize that having unhealthy behavior says nothing about a person’s character. Viewing your unhealthy behavior as an area to improve and not a personal reflection can reduce shame or guilt that may impede improvement.

Second, let go of the all or nothing approach. Even a small step of progress is improvement. You don’t need to solve the problem entirely to be proud of your improvement.

Third, establish a non-judgmental baseline and a SMART goal of where you would like to be. Specific; Measurable; Achievable; Relevant; Time-bound. You can learn more about creating and using SMART goals to improve your progress.

Fourth, check-in regularly to evaluate and acknowledge your progress. Do you need to ask for assistance, reach out to peers, change an aspect of the goal? If you need additional help in reducing an unhealthy behavior, a great place to start is by visiting findhelp.org. This site can direct you to resources in your area related to housing, transportation, addiction, finances, child and parental care, food, and of course, areas of health where you may be struggling.

For those needing help with addiction, recovery, or misuse, check out the extensive substance misuse assistance programs.

Keep reaching for improvement and you will get there.

You can follow the Detroit Mercy Wellness Center on Instagram or schedule an appointment for a personalized health plan.

Wayne County Community COVID-19 Level is Low. Masks are recommended in classroom and work settings and libraries.

Ask a question about Detroit Mercy Health Guidelines