Thrive Mindful Movement

Thrive is a new wellness initiative created by the Oklahoma Christian University’s counseling center to support students, faculty, and staff in exploring holistic wellness, building resilience, and practicing self-care.

Counselor Johanna Lange explains what THRIVE really is.

“(Tools for Health, Resilience, Insight, Values, and Engagement) Mindful Movement is one part of THRIVE, a weekly mind-body wellness group focused on reducing stress, improving well-being, and fostering self-reflection through gentle movement (like mindful walking or yoga), grounding exercises, and journaling. No prior experience is needed.” Lange said.

By offering a space where students can pause and recharge, the counseling center helps them refocus on their emotional and academic well-being. When students feel genuinely cared for, they are more likely to extend that care inward, fostering self-compassion and personal growth. Sometimes, what students need most is simply a chance to reset. A moment of rest that renews their ability to engage fully with their studies and campus life.

“The goal of THRIVE is to create a supportive wellness community where participants can develop healthy habits, build resilience, enhance self-awareness, and form supportive connections across campus,” Lange said. “The Counseling Center’s goal is centered on prevention and encouraging the OC community to engage in self-care activities that proactively promote well-being, foster a sense of community, and support healthy habits and coping strategies. We also hope to encourage other departments to host their own THRIVE events and/or collaborate with us.”

Students and faculty of all genders  are welcome on Tuesdays at 12:00 p.m. and Thursdays at 4:00 p.m., each session lasting 45 minutes each.

The counseling center plans to include many more activities in their weekly rotations. Lange said other activities in the future may include the following. “Creativity Corner is designed for personal expression and art. Lunch and Learns, is guided discussions on wellness topics. Cards and Cookies encourages students to spread gratitude and connection. Gather and Game includes low-pressure social connection through board games. Stress and Self-care workshops, this would include building resilience and practical coping skills,” Lange said.