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Visions of self-care

What helps keep University of Minnesota students balanced and happy? The answers vary widely, but the images show some favorite activities.

hands of people petting a dog

Visions of self-care

What helps keep University of Minnesota students balanced and happy? The answers vary widely, but the images show some favorite activities.

Collage grid-1 visions of self-care

Anna Aquino holds a plant in a pot outside by a tree
a student tending to a plant
a student visiting an art gallery
a student coloring and smiling
students talking and planting a flower pot
students stretching on yoga mats at a recreation and wellness center
students lifting dumbbells
students doing pulley exercises at recreation and wellness center
a student wearing a mask exercising using a pulley sustem at recreation and wellness center
Anna Aquino reading book sitting next to plant

“When I'm walking outside, I like to try to become aware of the things I can physically feel, like the wind or sunlight. It's just a nice grounding technique that pulls me out of my head (and my anxieties) and into the present.” —Jo Brown

Collage grid-2 visions of self-care

students doing meditation in a circle
students petting a dog
a student petting a dog
a student holding a cat

PAWS (Pet Away Worry & Stress) remains wildly popular with students and staff, with more than 5,700 visits in fall 2021. Says one guest: “I love it so much, it is such an important part of my time here at the University. When I need a break from school and extracurriculars, I come to PAWS for some dog time. This helps me forget about the world and just talk to the amazing people who volunteer at PAWS, and pet cute animals.” The animals seem to like it too.

“I set aside time to go to a bookstore, art museum, or coffee shop. It is beyond important to be comfortable and in tune with yourself before being with others' presence.”
—Rebecca Pirko

Mental Health Resources

Learn more about the many resources on the Twin Cities campus.

YOU@UMN is a personalized digital platform connecting students to online tools and campus resources. Visit YOU@UMN

If you or someone you know is suffering from a mental health crisis, the University of Minnesota is here to help.

24-Hours Crisis Line: 612-301-4673

24-Hour Text Counseling: Text "UMN" to 61222