Health and wellness classes

A variety of classes are scheduled throughout the year covering all areas of well-being. These classes are available to all City employees.

Classes and programs

We offer a variety of wellness programs and classes throughout the year covering all areas of well-being. City employees can earn points for up to four classes each year on Virgin Pulse. We regularly add programs and classes, so please check back for updates.

Earn Virgin Pulse points

After you complete the event, self-report your attendance in order to earn the points.

Go to the "Benefits" tab on the Virgin Pulse platform.
Click "Attend a Wellness Program and/or Class" and select "Start Now".
Enter the name and date you attended the event and check the confirm box and click "Submit".

May is mental health month

How substances affect your mood

Learn about some of the common triggers that affect mood and well-being. Debra Grayson, our dedicated workplace support consultant will discuss the connections between mood and substance use and focus on how understanding and addressing triggers can help improve moods and overall health.

Mood and substance use
Noon-12:45 p.m. Tuesday, May 7
Sign up.

Employee mental health resources

The City provides a variety of benefits to support the well-being of employees. There are so many that it can get confusing. Come learn about the different mental health resources that you or your covered dependents can use if you’re on the City’s medical plan. You deserve all of the benefits available to you for the hard work you put forth every day.

Learn about employee mental health resources
Noon-1 p.m. Thursday, May 9
Sign up.

Sound bath with Maria

What is a sound bath? Sound baths are a meditative practice involving the use of resonant music. This creates an immersive sound that fills the room and the body, aiming to help people relax and let go of stress, anxiety or other worries and concerns. People report feeling deeply relaxed afterwards. Come try it in the fitness center.

Sound bath
Noon-1 p.m. Tuesday, May 14
Sign up.

Understanding the Employee Assistance Program by Optum

Learn all that the Employee Assistance Program, now named Workplace Wellbeing Solutions, has to offer. Its resources are available 24/7 to employees and their families: counseling sessions, legal consultation, financial advising, childcare referrals and community resources. Employees also have the resource Live and Work Well at your fingertips to get support. Just enter the access code MEDICA.

Understand the Employee Assistance Program
Noon-12:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 22
Sign up.

Men's mental health

Mental health is essential for a happy and full life, yet there is often a lack of awareness and understanding of how men experience mental health. Perceptions of masculinity, gender stereotypes and stigma can also make it harder for men to recognize when they might need support. As a result of these complex factors, there is a disproportionate difference between the number of males experiencing mental health disorders and those seeking treatment.

This session will explore men’s mental health and unpack the key components of psychological well-being for men, delving into some of the more damaging societal norms that keep men from getting help.

Men’s mental health
Noon-1 p.m. Wednesday, May 29
Sign up.

Recurring programs

Family eating healthy food at picnic table in summer

Parenting group

May 16 topic: Children and self esteem

June 20 topic: Children with special needs

Be a part of the group for parents with children of all ages led by Debra Grayson, our City of Minneapolis onsite EAP Consultant. This idea grew out of employee interest and we are happy to offer it to anyone interested in talking about parenting. We will talk about the joys, challenges and the complexity of juggling work and family life.

Group will meet the 3rd Thursday of each month, Noon-12:45 p.m. Register for the parenting group and the link will be sent for the series.

Monthly "lunch & learn" mental health topics with Creative Kuponya

Thursday, May 16 Noon-1:00 p.m. Glowback: exploration of feedback in the workplace

Thursday, June 13 Noon-1:00 p.m. - Burnout and self-care

The City is working to recognize the trauma, stress and anxiety experienced by employees and normalize the discussions of mental health. We are partnering with local provider Creative Kuponya to provide culturally relevant mental health support in group sessions focused on various topics. Grab your lunch and come learn, listen and ask questions.

Sign up to receive the calendar hold, group session are anonymous and confidential on Creative Kuponya's Zoom platform.

Mindful minute

9 a.m. every Wednesday, online

Take a moment right now to take a deep breath. Join us for 15 minutes each week as we come together to practice mindfulness together, build a sense of community, and simply slow down. Regular practice can make it easier to feel calm, grounded and safe when you need the support.

Join 9 am Wednesday on Teams

Get the reoccurring calendar invitation