
Welcome to the new wellness class page. We encourage your feedback at wellness@med.mit.edu.
Need help registering? Visit this Help Guide for step-by-step instructions.
- Monday, January 18
- Monday, February 15
- Monday, April 19




This live, 20-minute class is a combination of simple stretches to release tension in the body and guided meditation to release tension in the mind.
It will be offered on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday as a self-care routine. Attend as often as you wish. This class provides a transition from the workday to the evening and from “doing” mode to “being” mode.
Registration is ongoing. You can sign up at any time and participate in as many or as few classes as you wish.
There will be no session on Institute holidays:
- Monday, January 18
- Monday, February 15
- Monday, April 19
There will be no session the week of March 22-25, 2021.




Essentrics is ideal for anyone looking for a safe, effective, alignment-based exercise program, and for individuals looking to complement other activities, such as running, biking, and weight training.
Essentrics Stretch & Tone is a moderately-paced class that emphasizes toning and flexibility. It is ideal for beginners and non-beginners who are active, healthy and fully mobile. An eclectic music playlist accompanies each workout, creating a fun, positive environment.
**Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.**



$24.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$24.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc
$24.00 MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree


Through yoga, parents and caregivers will learn ways to ease their babies digestive difficulties, support development, and promote sleep!



$32.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$32.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc
$32.00 MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree


Yang Sheng "Life Nourishing" Qigong is an extremely powerful tool for bringing out ones natural human potential and optimal fitness. Physical health and mental well being are a direct result of the practice.
The core of our training is 'Zhan Zhuang' (Standing Meditation). It is designed to activate 'Zheng Qi' (True or Proper Qi). The effects of this training are rapid with deep therapeutic results producing a unified and balanced 'mind, body and breath'.
There is no class on Monday, February 15, 2021.
**Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.**



$24.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$24.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc
$24.00 MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree


Essentrics is ideal for anyone looking for a safe, effective, alignment-based exercise program, and for individuals looking to complement other activities, such as running, biking, and weight training.Essentrics Stretch & Tone is a moderately-paced class that emphasizes toning and flexibility. It is ideal for beginners and non-beginners who are active, healthy and fully mobile. An eclectic music playlist accompanies each workout, creating a fun, positive environment.
You'll leave this one-hour class feeling more pliable, energized, elongated and strong!
**Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.**



$32.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$32.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc
$32.00 MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree


Enjoy the many known benefits of yoga through the practice of gentle, rhythmic movement and yoga asanas (poses), breath work, relaxation and meditation. In this class, Celeste provides clear instructions and modifications, making it accessible and beneficial to practitioners of all levels.
It's the perfect mid-week reset for body and mind. Come see how less really can be more!
**Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.**



$32.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$32.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc
$32.00 MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree

Iyengar yoga is Hatha yoga as taught by BKS Iyengar and develops strength, coordination, and flexibility of the body and mind. Participants learn how to use their embodiment as an anchor - a way to find peace and inner strength during busy and difficult times.
Every class is different with a unique sequence based on the theme of the class and the needs of the students. Using physical alignment as a starting point, Iyengar yoga encourages the spread of intelligence throughout the body, the growth of self awareness and asana as a form of meditation.
As a Certified Iyengar Teacher (CIYT) who has studied with renown teachers Patricia Walden and Jarvis Chen for over 13 years, Ashley uses individual pose modifications, props, and hands-on adjustments to support participants of all body types, ages and abilities.
Iyengar yoga is truly for everyone - stiff bodies welcome!
**Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.**



$40.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$40.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc
$40.00 MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree


Each class includes guided exercises using the Roll Model therapy balls, breath work and stretching techniques specifically designed to ease overburdened muscles and encourage deep mind-body relaxation. Explore various muscle groups and needy body areas each week to eliminate strain and discomfort from sitting too long, working on screens and living with stress.
You will find greater self-awareness, freedom and ease in your body. Put the power of self-massage into your own hands.
All levels welcome!
**Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.**



$32.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$32.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc
$32.00 MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree


MITAC
mitac.mit.edu



$0.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate


Join other new parents to meet and discuss the enormous changes being a new parent brings. Find support and community on such issues as feeding/breastfeeding/pumping, sleep, post-partum challenges, physical changes, exhaustion and new identity/roles. This class mainly focuses on the birth parent's transitions and support, but spouses/partners are welcome to attend.
The class is facilitated by a Parenting Educator and Breastfeeding Counselor.
This is a free, private group for the MIT community only.
**Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.**



$0.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate


- This class focuses on vaginal birth but also covers what happens in a C-section in case one is needed.
- Partners are encouraged to attend and will leave with a "toolbox" of support techniques. Handouts are provided.
- A small introduction to breastfeeding and early post-partum are covered in this course.
- One registration is good for both the mother and 1 support person.
- The ideal time to take this course is when the first week of the course aligns with your pregnancy between 24-30 gestational weeks.
If you meet these requirements, enter coupon code "healthplan" at checkout.
"Childbirth Preparation through Community Wellness at MIT Medical is a great resource for expectant parents. Women and their partners find themselves well-prepared for what to expect during labor and birth, and how to communicate their needs to their caregivers." - Jennifer Shark, Certified Nurse Midwife
“We wanted to thank you wholeheartedly for the great course. The birth of our little one was tough, but we were aware of all the risks and complications that could come along our way, thanks to the great job you did. Although nothing went as we had hoped or "birth planned", in the end everything turned out just fine.” – Testimonial from 2019 participant
Childbirth Preparation Class should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation, or advice from a physician or other qualified healthcare provider.



$100.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$100.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc
$100.00 MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree


- We’ll practice feeding, diapering, holding, dressing, and getting our “pretend” model babies to sleep.
- You’ll learn about normal newborn behavior and discuss different ways to handle crying and sleep.
- We’ll also talk about going out and finding support and community.
**Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.**



$30.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$30.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc
$30.00 MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree


This 2 hour class covers many important aspects of breastfeeding such as:
- how does breastfeeding work
- advantages
- getting off to a good start (what to do in the early hours and days with breastfeeding)
- early days at home (support and trouble shooting)
- typical newborn and infant feeding patterns
- supplies and equipment (pumps, soothing supplies, nursing bras)
- positioning baby at breast (latch and positions)
- avoiding latch issues
- pumping and returning to work or school
- where to get help and more!
Cost covers 2 people (mom and support person).
Check with your health insurance provider to see if they will reimburse you for this class.
**Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.**



$40.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$40.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc
$40.00 MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree


Category | Course ID | Course Number | Course name | Start Date Time | Location | Description | Instructors Name | Start Date | End Date | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mind/Live Classes/~ | 2583 | 0 | Noon Unwind | Class meets on Mondays - Thursdays from 12:00-12:15pm beginning on January 11 and ending on May 27, 2021. | Online Virtual |
|
This live, 15-minute class is a combination of simple stretches to release tension in the body and guided meditation to mentally reset during the day. It will be offered on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday to encourage taking lunch breaks. Attend as often as you wish, and feel free to join with your co-workers as an office self-care routine. Registration is ongoing. You can sign up at any time and participate in as many or as few classes as you wish. There will be no session on Institute holidays:
There will be no session the week of March 22-25, 2021. |
Susanna (Zan) Barry | 1/11/2021 | 5/27/2021 | |
Mind/Live Classes/~ | 2584 | 0 | 5PM Unwind | Class meets on Mondays - Thursdays from 5:00-5:20pm beginning on January 11 and ending on May 27, 2021. | Online Virtual |
|
This live, 20-minute class is a combination of simple stretches to release tension in the body and guided meditation to release tension in the mind. It will be offered on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday as a self-care routine. Attend as often as you wish. This class provides a transition from the workday to the evening and from “doing” mode to “being” mode. Registration is ongoing. You can sign up at any time and participate in as many or as few classes as you wish. There will be no session on Institute holidays:
There will be no session the week of March 22-25, 2021. |
Susanna (Zan) Barry | 1/11/2021 | 5/27/2021 | |
Body/Live Classes/Essentrics~ | 2526 | 0 | Essentrics Stretch and Tone | 2/1/2021 12:00 PM | Online Virtual |
$24.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$24.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc $24.00 - MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree |
Inspired by ballet, yoga, tai chi and physiotherapy, Essentrics is a unique exercise program that honors the body’s natural design. It is an intelligent movement form that understands how to mindfully work with the body’s neuromuscular system, and works to rebalance each joint to help increase range of motion, and flexibility. It has many benefits, including improved posture, increased muscle strength, decreased muscle tension and relief from chronic aches and pains. Essentrics is ideal for anyone looking for a safe, effective, alignment-based exercise program, and for individuals looking to complement other activities, such as running, biking, and weight training. Essentrics Stretch & Tone is a moderately-paced class that emphasizes toning and flexibility. It is ideal for beginners and non-beginners who are active, healthy and fully mobile. An eclectic music playlist accompanies each workout, creating a fun, positive environment. You'll leave this one-hour class feeling more pliable, energized, elongated and strong! There is no class on Monday, February 15, 2021. **Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.** |
Severina Gates | 2/1/2021 | 2/22/2021 | |
Body/Live Classes/Yoga~Family Support/New Parents/Postpartum~ | 2546 | 0 | Family & Baby Yoga | 2/1/2021 1:00 PM | Online Virtual |
$32.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$32.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc $32.00 - MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree |
Family and baby yoga is a fun filled way to stretch out that new parent stress, rebuild strength and flexibility, and cultivate more serenity while bonding with baby! This class is a blend of traditional Kripalu Hatha Yoga and Itsy Bitsy Yoga for babies. Through yoga, parents and caregivers will learn ways to ease their babies digestive difficulties, support development, and promote sleep! This class is recommended for parents and caregivers with pre-crawling babies. Please note, there is no class on Monday, February 15, 2021. Class will be held on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 from 1-2pm instead. **Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.** |
Celeste LeMieux | 2/1/2021 | 2/22/2021 | |
Body/Live Classes/Qigong~ | 2533 | 0 | Qigong | 2/1/2021 7:00 PM | Online Virtual |
$24.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$24.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc $24.00 - MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree |
Yang Sheng "Life Nourishing" Qigong is an extremely powerful tool for bringing out ones natural human potential and optimal fitness. Physical health and mental well being are a direct result of the practice. The core of our training is 'Zhan Zhuang' (Standing Meditation). It is designed to activate 'Zheng Qi' (True or Proper Qi). The effects of this training are rapid with deep therapeutic results producing a unified and balanced 'mind, body and breath'. There is no class on Monday, February 15, 2021. **Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.** |
Jim Roselando | 2/1/2021 | 2/22/2021 | |
Body/Live Classes/Essentrics~ | 2525 | 0 | Essentrics Stretch and Tone | 2/3/2021 12:00 PM | Online Virtual |
$32.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$32.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc $32.00 - MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree |
Inspired by ballet, yoga, tai chi and physiotherapy, Essentrics is a unique exercise program that honors the body’s natural design. It is an intelligent movement form that understands how to mindfully work with the body’s neuromuscular system, and works to rebalance each joint to help increase range of motion, and flexibility. It has many benefits, including improved posture, increased muscle strength, decreased muscle tension and relief from chronic aches and pains. Essentrics is ideal for anyone looking for a safe, effective, alignment-based exercise program, and for individuals looking to complement other activities, such as running, biking, and weight training.Essentrics Stretch & Tone is a moderately-paced class that emphasizes toning and flexibility. It is ideal for beginners and non-beginners who are active, healthy and fully mobile. An eclectic music playlist accompanies each workout, creating a fun, positive environment. You'll leave this one-hour class feeling more pliable, energized, elongated and strong! **Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.** |
Severina Gates | 2/3/2021 | 2/24/2021 | |
Body/Live Classes/Yoga~ | 2545 | 0 | Gentle Yoga | 2/3/2021 5:30 PM | Online Virtual |
$32.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$32.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc $32.00 - MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree |
Enjoy the many known benefits of yoga through the practice of gentle, rhythmic movement and yoga asanas (poses), breath work, relaxation and meditation. In this class, Celeste provides clear instructions and modifications, making it accessible and beneficial to practitioners of all levels. It's the perfect mid-week reset for body and mind. Come see how less really can be more! **Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.** |
Celeste LeMieux | 2/3/2021 | 2/24/2021 | |
Body/Live Classes/Yoga~ | 2531 | 0 | Iyengar Yoga | 2/4/2021 5:30 PM | Online Virtual |
$40.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$40.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc $40.00 - MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree |
Iyengar yoga is Hatha yoga as taught by BKS Iyengar and develops strength, coordination, and flexibility of the body and mind. Participants learn how to use their embodiment as an anchor - a way to find peace and inner strength during busy and difficult times. Every class is different with a unique sequence based on the theme of the class and the needs of the students. Using physical alignment as a starting point, Iyengar yoga encourages the spread of intelligence throughout the body, the growth of self awareness and asana as a form of meditation. As a Certified Iyengar Teacher (CIYT) who has studied with renown teachers Patricia Walden and Jarvis Chen for over 13 years, Ashley uses individual pose modifications, props, and hands-on adjustments to support participants of all body types, ages and abilities. Iyengar yoga is truly for everyone - stiff bodies welcome! **Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.** |
Ashley Norwood | 2/4/2021 | 2/25/2021 | |
Body/Live Classes/Roll+Restore~ | 2575 | 0 | Roll+Restore | 2/5/2021 5:30 PM | Online Virtual |
$32.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$32.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc $32.00 - MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree |
Experience the immediate benefits of myofascial release with this simple and effective self-care practice. Learn specialized ball rolling techniques that help penetrate through layers of skin, fascia and muscle and massage into your high-tension areas. Each class includes guided exercises using the Roll Model therapy balls, breath work and stretching techniques specifically designed to ease overburdened muscles and encourage deep mind-body relaxation. Explore various muscle groups and needy body areas each week to eliminate strain and discomfort from sitting too long, working on screens and living with stress. You will find greater self-awareness, freedom and ease in your body. Put the power of self-massage into your own hands. All levels welcome! **Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.** |
Nancy Bellantoni | 2/5/2021 | 2/26/2021 | |
Speakers/Workshops/Live Classes/~ | 2589 | 1 | Gratitude and Self-Care During Uncertain Times | 2/9/2021 2:00 PM | Online Virtual |
Register by contacting:
MITAC mitac.mit.edu |
Gratitude and stress management practices have been researched for their value in difficult times. During this workshop, we will practice gratitude journaling, relaxation techniques, and other inspiring skills to help with self-care. |
Susanna (Zan) Barry | 2/9/2021 | 2/9/2021 | |
Mind/Live Classes/~ | 2535 | 1 | Meditation for your Wellbeing | 2/10/2021 12:10 PM | Online Virtual |
$0.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
|
Community Wellness at MIT Medical offers drop-in meditation and relaxation sessions. Sit back and relax - no experience necessary. |
Dan Dietterich | 2/10/2021 | 2/10/2021 | |
Family Support/New Parents/Postpartum~ | 2577 | 1 | Virtual New Parent Support Group | 2/16/2021 11:00 AM | Online Virtual |
$0.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
|
Want to attend a parent group in your pajamas? Want to have the anonymity to ask a very personal question? Join other new parents to meet and discuss the enormous changes being a new parent brings. Find support and community on such issues as feeding/breastfeeding/pumping, sleep, post-partum challenges, physical changes, exhaustion and new identity/roles. This class mainly focuses on the birth parent's transitions and support, but spouses/partners are welcome to attend. The class is facilitated by a Parenting Educator and Breastfeeding Counselor. |
Wendy Mackey-Kydd | 2/16/2021 | 2/16/2021 | |
Family Support/New Parents/Childbirth Class~ | 2547 | 1 | Childbirth Class | 2/17/2021 6:45 PM | Online Virtual |
$100.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$100.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc $100.00 - MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree |
This 6-week course offers expecting parents full evidence based information about birth and the ability to learn coping techniques such as relaxation, breathing, position practice, and massage. You will have the opportunity to learn about each of these as well as gain hands-on practice. Classes will cover choices in the hospital and how to understand risk reduction for both mother and baby.
PLEASE NOTE: This class is free for members of the MIT Traditional Health Plan, MIT Choice Health Plan with a MIT Medical OB/GYN, and students/affiliates on the Extended Insurance Plan. If you meet these requirements, enter coupon code "healthplan" at checkout. If you do not meet these requirements, you are welcome to take the course and will be required to pay full price. Check with your health insurance provider to see if you are eligible for reimbursement. Questions? Please ask before registering: wellness@med.mit.edu "Childbirth Preparation through Community Wellness at MIT Medical is a great resource for expectant parents. Women and their partners find themselves well-prepared for what to expect during labor and birth, and how to communicate their needs to their caregivers." - Jennifer Shark, Certified Nurse Midwife “We wanted to thank you wholeheartedly for the great course. The birth of our little one was tough, but we were aware of all the risks and complications that could come along our way, thanks to the great job you did. Although nothing went as we had hoped or "birth planned", in the end everything turned out just fine.” – Testimonial from 2019 participant Childbirth Preparation Class should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation, or advice from a physician or other qualified healthcare provider. |
Wendy Mackey-Kydd | 2/17/2021 | 3/24/2021 | |
Family Support/New Parents/Getting Ready for Baby~ | 2527 | 1 | Getting Ready for Baby | 2/20/2021 10:30 AM | Online Virtual |
$30.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$30.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc $30.00 - MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree |
This class covers hands-on care of the newborn and very young infant.
Cost covers 2 people (mom and support person). **Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.** |
Wendy Mackey-Kydd | 2/20/2021 | 2/20/2021 | |
Family Support/New Parents/Breastfeeding~ | 2548 | 1 | Breastfeeding | 2/20/2021 1:00 PM | Online Virtual |
$40.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$40.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc $40.00 - MIT Traditional Health Plan/Retiree |
This 2 hour class covers many important aspects of breastfeeding such as:
Cost covers 2 people (mom and support person). **Snow Days: If the Institute is closed for a snow day, we will still plan to hold classes remotely.** |
Wendy Mackey-Kydd | 2/20/2021 | 2/20/2021 |