Wellness and Work-Life Blog


Join the Mid-Morning Walking Group

Looking for a simple way to boost your energy, reduce stress, and enjoy a break in your day? Our Mid-Morning Walking Group is the perfect midweek pick-me-up. We meet every Wednesday between 10–11 AM in the front of steps at Gorgas Library, and you’re welcome to join anytime during that hour. Whether you walk for…


Here’s to Kindness

At the core of every thriving workplace is a culture of kindness.  At UA, we’re proud to see that spirit shine brightly.  This semester, the response to Kindness Champions has been nothing short of inspiring.  From small gestures that made someone’s day to extraordinary effort that lifted an entire team, these nominations remind us that…


“I want to be healthy enough to go on adventures” – Jennifer C.

Jennifer Clark at Crimson Couch to 5K

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.  I am the Compliance Operations Director in the Office of Compliance, Ethics, and Regulatory Affairs (CERA), and I have been at UA for almost 16 years. My primary responsibilities include managing the University’s compliance and ethics training programs, coordinating communications for CERA, and providing oversight…


Happy World Meditation Day!

Thoughtful mixed race businessman sitting at table with computer, looking away. Distracted from study job young african american man lost in thoughts, thinking of difficult decision at home office.

Wednesday, May 21st, is World Meditation Day and whether you have a regular meditation routine or you’ve never meditated in your life, we encourage you to take 5 minutes to breathe and recharge. What even is meditation? You may be surprised to learn that meditation is not just about sitting on the floor, breathing, and…


Successfully Navigating Menopause

Dreamy pensive caucasian mature blonde woman walking relaxing resting in city park forest spending free time in woods

Discover practical tips, nutritional guidance, and strategies to confidently navigate the physical and emotional changes of perimenopause. Taught by Suzanne Henson, Registered Dietitian at University Medical Center.


“I truly enjoy the online classes that are offered through WellBAMA” – Rebecca M.

Rebecca Minder

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.  A Tuscaloosa native, I have two degrees from the University of Alabama and am the Director of Alabama Heritage magazine. My husband and I have five adult children and a sassy beagle named Belle. Describe the starting point of your journey and the factors that…


The Power of a Walk with Coworkers

Angelia Gaddis

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.  I’ve been happily married for 43 years and am proud to have two grown sons named Christopher and Kyle, both of whom are married to wonderful women named Beth and Emma. At home, I share my life with two beloved dogs, Thor and Mindy, while…


Your Health After 40

Happy youngman with backpack adventure mountain outdoors.

Preparing you for continued health after 40. Topics covered include recommended medical visits, testing, vaccinations, tailored nutrition and exercise for those 40 years and older. All ages are welcome! It is never too early to plan for continued health.


15th Annual Crimson Couch to 5K

Big Al (elephant mascot) outside Bryant-Denny stadium running a 5k with other event participants

On a Friday night in early April, UA faculty and staff members, their families, students, and the larger community lined up on the start line outside Bryant-Denny Stadium. The Crimson Couch to 5K brought almost 400 runners and walkers to the Walk of Champions to test their physical and mental limits and support others in…


“Making time for my well-being truly became a necessity for me” – McKenzie

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.My name is McKenzie Parham, and I have been working with the University for 3 years. I am currently a Facilities Associate III with the Elevator Maintenance department. I graduated from UA in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. When not at work, I…


National Walking Day 2025

3 women walking on the sidewalk with pink flowers in the background

It was a breezy but beautiful day for a walk! Sixty-one employees joined us at the Walk of Champions to celebrate National Walking Day. The wind didn’t slow us down—we enjoyed fresh air, friendly faces, and a few well-earned steps. Participants picked up Just Ingredients samples as a small thank-you for taking time out of…


Organize Your Life

Big wardrobe with different clothes and accessories in dressing room

Getting and keeping everything organized often feels like it’s an impossible task. This class will cover the fundamentals of how to “organize your life” one step at a time.


Clean Living Lifestyle

Colorful cleaning supplies in a blue bucket on a table, with gloves and spray bottles. The background is blurred, showing a home interior. This is a color photograph of commercial cleaning service products. Stock photo, with 2/3 of the image available for text. --ar 3:2 --v 6.1 Job ID: bb831661-9e44-4a9b-8880-dd6af85fba08

Find out more about the 5 benefits of clean living, while reaching your goals of a healthy lifestyle and protecting the planet. We will explore how to “ditch and switch” for cleaner, safer household and personal products.


“I have one body, what I do today determines my wellbeing tomorrow.” – Marsha

My name is Marsha Jones-Rush. I am an Administrative Assistant for the university of Alabama School of Social Work Doctoral Program. I am originally from Meridian, Mississippi. I enjoy all things fun. A few of my hobbies include viewing all types of sports, reading, cooking, arts and crafts and various types of music Describe Starting…


Boost Your Wellbeing with the Mental Fitness Series

A sportsman practicing meditation, emphasizing calm and mental clarity (close up, meditation theme, surreal, double exposure, zen garden backdrop)

The Mental Fitness Series is off to a great start! The first two sessions have helped participants build resilience, practice gratitude, and learn ways to manage stress. The first session, Understanding Stress, helped people recognize the effects of stress on the body and how to handle it in a healthier way. The second session, Cultivating…


Building an Attitude of Gratitude

Praying Hands. Eucharist Therapy Bless God Helping Repent Catholic Easter Lent Mind Pray. Christian Religion concept background.

Learn more about the practice of gratitude and its positive effects on our mental, emotional, and total wellbeing. Get practical tips on how you can incorporate thankfulness into your daily routine.


“I won my battle because of my well-being and determination to win” – Doug Best

Briefly introduce yourself and share a bit about your background.  I’m from Michigan and lived/worked there my entire life until 3 years ago when my youngest child Jacob decided to attend the University of Alabama! My wife and I retired from the State of Michigan and made the big move to Tuscaloosa. I “unretired” and…