
Welcome to the wellness class page.
We
offer a wide range of classes for all members of the MIT community
and all levels of experience,
including new & expecting parents.
Need help registering? Visit this Help Guide for step-by-step instructions.
Have feedback? We encourage you to share your thoughts anonymously anytime
or contact the Program Manager, Rachel Bigler, at wellness@med.mit.edu.
This live, virtual 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 is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays to help provide an evening transition from “doing” mode to “being” mode. Register for free anytime this fall, attend as often as you wish, and feel free to invite others to register as a self-care routine.


$0.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$0.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


This live, virtual 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 is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays to encourage taking a break midday. Register for free anytime, attend as often as you wish, and feel free to invite others to register as a self-care routine.


$0.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$0.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


There will be no class on April 17, 2023.
This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session.



$27.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$27.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


There is no class on Monday, 04/17/2023. 
This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session.



$27.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$27.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


This yoga practice provides the opportunity to relax and de-stress as well as to stretch, strengthen, and balance your body. The practice begins with a meditative centering followed by warm-ups, a posture flow, and a restful final relaxation. We conclude with a closing and some timefor connecting with your fellow yogis.
The yoga postures are led at a moderate intensity. Lower intensity modifications are always offered and there is absolutely no obligation to do any posture. The goal is to make the class accessible to beginners as well as experienced practitioners. Listening to your body is the key to safety, especially in this online format.
This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign up to help us know who is interested in this session.



$36.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$36.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


Many people think gentle yoga is too easy and not an effective form of fitness. Think again! You can practice yoga in ways that are both active and gentle at the same time.
Come enjoy the many known benefits of yoga through:
- the practice of active yet gentle, rhythmic movement
- held yoga poses and vinyasa flow (moving from pose to pose via the breath)
- pranayam (breath work)
- relaxation and meditation
In this well-rounded class, Celeste LeMieux, 500 hr certified Kripalu Yoga Instructor, provides clear instructions and modifications, making it accessible and beneficial to practitioners of all ages and stages of yoga practice and life.
You will leave class feeling both stretched and strengthened while also feeling more calm and relaxed. This class is the perfect mid-week reset for body and mind. Come see how less really can be more!
This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign up to help us know who is interested in this session.


$36.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$36.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session.



$44.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$44.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


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!
You will leave with contact information for on-going support, pumping and storing, and other handouts.
Cost covers 2 people (mom and support person).
"Breastmilk contains a type of antibody called secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) that provides passive immunity to the breastfed infant. This is especially helpful in the first few months of the baby’s life, when the baby’s immune system is still immature and not yet able to mount a response to common viruses." - Dr. Rosemarie Gordon, Pediatrician in MIT Medical's Primary Care.
This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session.


$40.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$40.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


- 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.
Cost covers 2 people (mom and support person).
This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If this course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session.



$30.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$30.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


The class is facilitated by a Parenting Educator and Breastfeeding Counselor.
This is a free, private group for the MIT community only.



$0.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$0.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


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! This is a movement class and workout attire is strongly encouraged.
Props for the class include:
- Yoga Tune Up Therapy Balls (modification: two tennis balls in a sock or a mesh bag)
- A Coregeous Ball (modification: an inflatable ball with a 22" round circumference)
- Two Yoga Blocks (modification: thick books)
- A Strap (modification: a cloth belt or towel)



$27.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$27.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


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. 
Please click the "read more" link before signing up for the class to see details about the cost.
- Classes will cover choices in the hospital and how to understand risk reduction for both mother and baby.
- 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 during the late 2nd trimester to early 3rd trimester.
PLEASE NOTE:
- This class is free for students/affiliates on the Student Health Insurance Plan.
- If you are on the Student Health Insurance Plan, enter coupon code "SHIP" at checkout.
If you do not meet these requirements, which includes MIT Traditional, MIT Choice and MIT HDHP plans, you are welcome to take the class 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 in MIT Medical's OBGYN department.
“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 participantChildbirth Preparation Class should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation, or advice from a physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund if you paid. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session.


$100.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$100.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session.



$36.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$36.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session.



$36.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$36.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


This yoga practice provides the opportunity to relax and de-stress as well as to stretch, strengthen, and balance your body. The practice begins with a meditative centering followed by warm-ups, a posture flow, and a restful final relaxation. We conclude with a closing and some timefor connecting with your fellow yogis.
The yoga postures are led at a moderate intensity. Lower intensity modifications are always offered and there is absolutely no obligation to do any posture. The goal is to make the class accessible to beginners as well as experienced practitioners. Listening to your body is the key to safety, especially in this online format.
This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign up to help us know who is interested in this session.



$45.00 Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$45.00 Student/Spouse/Postdoc


Category | Course ID | Course Number | Course name | Start Date Time | Location | Description | Instructors Name | Start Date | End Date | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mind/*Unwind Sessions/~ | 3861 | 0 | Noon Unwind | Class meets on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 12:00-12:15pm beginning on September 6, 2022 and ending on May 25, 2023. | Online Virtual |
$0.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$0.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
This live, virtual 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 is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays to encourage taking a break midday. Register for free anytime, attend as often as you wish, and feel free to invite others to register as a self-care routine. |
Susanna (Zan) Barry | 9/6/2022 | 5/25/2023 | |
Mind/*Unwind Sessions/~ | 3862 | 0 | 5PM Unwind | Class meets on Tuesdays & Thursdays from 5:00-5:20pm beginning on September 6, 2022 and ending on May 25, 2023. | Online Virtual |
$0.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$0.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
This live, virtual 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 is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays to help provide an evening transition from “doing” mode to “being” mode. Register for free anytime this fall, attend as often as you wish, and feel free to invite others to register as a self-care routine. |
Susanna (Zan) Barry | 9/6/2022 | 5/25/2023 | |
Body/*Yoga for Every Body/~ | 3965 | 0 | Yoga for Every Body | 4/3/2023 5:30 PM | Online Virtual |
$27.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$27.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
Do you think yoga is only for young, slender, super-flexible people? Think again! Yoga for Every Body with Catherine provides a gentle yoga experience in the Kripalu tradition. It offers a safe introduction for beginners of all ages, shapes, and sizes, as well as an opportunity for more experienced practitioners to share a gentle, mindful practice. Catherine hopes that this will give everyone an opportunity to turn down the “noise” of daily living and tune in to your own body, mind, and spirit. There is no class on Monday, 04/17/2023.  This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session. |
Catherine Gamon | 4/3/2023 | 4/24/2023 | |
Body/*Qigong/~ | 3964 | 0 | Qigong | 4/3/2023 7:00 PM | Online Virtual |
$27.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$27.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
Yang Sheng "Life Nourishing" Qigong is an extremely powerful tool for bringing out one's 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 will be no class on April 17, 2023. This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session. |
Jim Roselando | 4/3/2023 | 4/24/2023 | |
Body/*Moderate Yoga/~ | 3954 | 0 | Moderate Yoga | 4/4/2023 5:30 PM | Online Virtual |
$36.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$36.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
This yoga practice provides the opportunity to relax and de-stress as well as to stretch, strengthen, and balance your body. The practice begins with a meditative centering followed by warm-ups, a posture flow, and a restful final relaxation. We conclude with a closing and some timefor connecting with your fellow yogis. The yoga postures are led at a moderate intensity. Lower intensity modifications are always offered and there is absolutely no obligation to do any posture. The goal is to make the class accessible to beginners as well as experienced practitioners. Listening to your body is the key to safety, especially in this online format.
|
Dan Dietterich | 4/4/2023 | 4/25/2023 | |
Body/*Active Gentle Yoga/~ | 3963 | 0 | Active Gentle Yoga | 4/5/2023 5:30 PM | Online Virtual |
$36.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$36.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
Many people think gentle yoga is too easy and not an effective form of fitness. Think again! You can practice yoga in ways that are both active and gentle at the same time. Come enjoy the many known benefits of yoga through:
In this well-rounded class, Celeste LeMieux, 500 hr certified Kripalu Yoga Instructor, provides clear instructions and modifications, making it accessible and beneficial to practitioners of all ages and stages of yoga practice and life. You will leave class feeling both stretched and strengthened while also feeling more calm and relaxed. This class is the perfect mid-week reset for body and mind. Come see how less really can be more! This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign up to help us know who is interested in this session. |
Celeste LeMieux | 4/5/2023 | 4/26/2023 | |
Body/*Iyengar Yoga/~ | 3959 | 0 | Iyengar Yoga | 4/6/2023 5:30 PM | Online Virtual |
$44.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$44.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
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 16 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! This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session. |
Ashley Norwood | 4/6/2023 | 4/27/2023 | |
New & Expecting Parent Support/*Getting Ready for Baby/~ | 3913 | 1 | Getting Ready for Baby | 4/8/2023 9:30 AM | Online Virtual |
$30.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$30.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
This class covers hands-on care of the newborn and very young infant.
Cost covers 2 people (mom and support person). This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If this course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session. |
Wendy Mackey-Kydd | 4/8/2023 | 4/8/2023 | |
New & Expecting Parent Support/*Breastfeeding/~ | 3924 | 1 | Breastfeeding Class | 4/8/2023 12:00 PM | Online Virtual |
$40.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$40.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
This 2-hour class covers many important aspects of breastfeeding such as:
You will leave with contact information for on-going support, pumping and storing, and other handouts. Cost covers 2 people (mom and support person). "Breastmilk contains a type of antibody called secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) that provides passive immunity to the breastfed infant. This is especially helpful in the first few months of the baby’s life, when the baby’s immune system is still immature and not yet able to mount a response to common viruses." - Dr. Rosemarie Gordon, Pediatrician in MIT Medical's Primary Care. This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session. |
Wendy Mackey-Kydd | 4/8/2023 | 4/8/2023 | |
New & Expecting Parent Support/*MIT Parent Support Group/~ | 3932 | 1 | MIT Parent Support Group | 4/13/2023 11:00 AM | Online Virtual |
$0.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$0.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
Want to attend a parent group in your pajamas? Want to have the anonymity to ask a very personal question? Join other parents in the MIT community to meet and discuss the enormous changes being a 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. |
Wendy Mackey-Kydd | 4/13/2023 | 4/13/2023 | |
Body/*Roll+Restore/~ | 3957 | 0 | Roll+Restore | 4/14/2023 5:30 PM | Online Virtual |
$27.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$27.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
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! This is a movement class and workout attire is strongly encouraged. Props for the class include:
|
Nancy Bellantoni | 4/14/2023 | 4/28/2023 | |
New & Expecting Parent Support/*Childbirth Preparation/~ | 3945 | 0 | Childbirth Preparation Class | 4/26/2023 6:45 PM | Online Virtual |
$100.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$100.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
Thank you for your interest in our Childbirth Preparation Class. This class is currently full. We encourage you to fill out this waitlist in case we are able to find a spot for you. 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.  Please click the "read more" link before signing up for the class to see details about the cost.
PLEASE NOTE:
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 in MIT Medical's OBGYN department. “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 participantChildbirth Preparation Class should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation, or advice from a physician or other qualified healthcare provider. This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund if you paid. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session. |
Wendy Mackey-Kydd | 4/26/2023 | 5/31/2023 | |
Body/*Yoga for Every Body/~ | 3968 | 0 | Yoga for Every Body | 5/1/2023 5:30 PM | Online Virtual |
$36.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$36.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
Do you think yoga is only for young, slender, super-flexible people? Think again! Yoga for Every Body with Catherine provides a gentle yoga experience in the Kripalu tradition. It offers a safe introduction for beginners of all ages, shapes, and sizes, as well as an opportunity for more experienced practitioners to share a gentle, mindful practice. Catherine hopes that this will give everyone an opportunity to turn down the “noise” of daily living and tune in to your own body, mind, and spirit. This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session. |
Catherine Gamon | 5/1/2023 | 5/22/2023 | |
Body/*Qigong/~ | 3967 | 0 | Qigong | 5/1/2023 7:00 PM | Online Virtual |
$36.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$36.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
Yang Sheng "Life Nourishing" Qigong is an extremely powerful tool for bringing out one's 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.' This class will only run if it meets the minimum participant requirement. If the course is unable to run, you would be notified by email and issued a full refund. We encourage you to sign-up to help us know who is interested in this session. |
Jim Roselando | 5/1/2023 | 5/22/2023 | |
Body/*Moderate Yoga/~ | 3955 | 0 | Moderate Yoga | 5/2/2023 5:30 PM | Online Virtual |
$45.00 - Employee/Spouse/Affiliate
$45.00 - Student/Spouse/Postdoc |
This yoga practice provides the opportunity to relax and de-stress as well as to stretch, strengthen, and balance your body. The practice begins with a meditative centering followed by warm-ups, a posture flow, and a restful final relaxation. We conclude with a closing and some timefor connecting with your fellow yogis. The yoga postures are led at a moderate intensity. Lower intensity modifications are always offered and there is absolutely no obligation to do any posture. The goal is to make the class accessible to beginners as well as experienced practitioners. Listening to your body is the key to safety, especially in this online format.
|
Dan Dietterich | 5/2/2023 | 5/30/2023 |