Sonoma State University

November 2026 Employee Wellness Newsletter

As we move through the fall season, we invite you to explore new ways to support your well-being. This month’s wellness opportunities are here to meet you where you are at - whether that means joining a lunchtime class, attending a wellness webinar, or simply taking a mindful moment to break up the work day.

Yoga and Pilates Classes

Lunchtime yoga and pilates classes are open to all experience levels and offer a great mid-day break to stretch, reset, and connect with colleagues. Please join us in Ives 80 from 12:05 to 12:55pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Yoga mats are available.

  • Mondays: Pilates
  • Wednesdays: Meditative Yoga
  • Thursdays: Meditative Yoga 

Couch to 5K Training

Join our 45-minute Couch to 5K Training with Yavé Guzman Valdez (bio)! Training is held weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Arbor and Lakes from 12:05 to 12:50pm. All levels are welcome, from beginners to intermediate as well as advanced runners looking for some extra workouts. Suggested items to bring with you: A pair of good running shoes, comfortable clothing to run in, water, post run snack, and a yoga mat. 

Local Opportunities to Get Moving

Get ready to lace up your sneakers as the SSU Employee Wellness Program has once again secured exclusive discount codes for local running events featuring distances for all levels. Whether you are a seasoned runner or wanting to try something new, you are invited to join us and walk, run or even skip your way to the finish line.

Email employeewellness@sonoma.edu for the exclusive discount codes!

Wellness Webinars

Kaiser Permanente is offering a range of wellness webinars open to all employees, regardless of your health plan. Most sessions are available on-demand for 90 days after the live stream, with the exception of the Calm Meditation Sessions, which are only available live.

  • Move It Mondays
    These 30-minute classes are designed to boost both your body and your mind and are available for all fitness levels. These classes will include a gentle warm-up, energizing movement, and a cool down. 
    • Date: November 2 & 16, 2026
    • Time: Noon - 12:30pm
    • Register
     
  • The Healthy Holiday Mix: Sleep, Exercise, Love and Food
    The holidays can bring joy, but also stress, fatigue and schedule overload. Give yourself the gift of self-compassion by adding movement or taking rest. Even lessening the guilt of enjoying food, especially if you have a chronic condition.
    • Date: November 16, 2026
    • Time: Noon - 1pm
    • Register
     
  • Kindness: A Path to Connection
    Discover how small acts of kindness build stronger relationships and enhance your personal well-being.
    • Date: November 18, 2026
    • Time: Noon - 1pm
    • Register
     
  • The Keys to Preventing Diabetes
    One out of three people have prediabetes and some may not know it. The good news is the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes can be managed by taking a few small steps. Learn about the five keys to preventing diabetes: eating healthy, getting active, quitting tobacco, managing stress, and sleeping well.
    • Date: November 19, 2026
    • Time: Noon - 1pm
    • Register

Calm Meditation Sessions

Join for 15 minutes to de-stress, reset, and renew yourself.

  • November 25, 2026 (2 - 2:15pm) - Join here at the time of event

Employee Access to the Campus Recreation Center

Employees have access to the Campus Rec Center, which offers a wide range of fitness, recreational and wellness resources that support physical and mental well-being. The Rec Center also provides opportunities to connect and build community outside of your work space. More information about the Rec Center’s facilities, classes, and hours of operation can be found through the Campus Recreation’s Rec Portal. Instructions for activating your employee access are available on our website.