With the MindMotion project – Experiencing mental health through exercise and nature – the University of Bayreuth is taking part in the new funding period of the ‘Bewegt Studieren’ initiative, supported by the General German University Sports Association (adh) and Techniker Krankenkasse (TK). Across Germany, 40 projects are being launched with the aim of integrating exercise and health more closely into everyday university life. For the University of Bayreuth, this represents an opportunity to explore innovative and scientifically sound approaches to supporting students’ mental and physical health. MindMotion focuses on evidence-based, participatively developed measures tailored to students’ needs. After all, stress, pressure to perform and high levels of mental strain are part of everyday student life for many. This is precisely where the project comes in: students are set to benefit in the long term through low-threshold exercise programmes, nature-based interventions and formats that encourage an active and health-conscious lifestyle. Nature is deliberately used as a resource, whether through outdoor workshops, mindfulness-based exercise formats or new ways of using green spaces on campus.
The specific measures will be developed collaboratively in a co-creation lab. However, three broad thematic areas have already been identified.
- Mental health & physical activity: Development of an exercise and sports programme designed to promote health and reduce stress.
- Healthy & active teaching: Further development and expansion of the existing ‘AktivPause’ scheme, with a focus on mental relief and short recovery sessions to promote mental health in an educational context.
- Active learning in natural surroundings: Development of nature-based rituals for preparing for learning in natural environments.
At the same time, the project sees itself as a catalyst for a health-promoting university culture. The aim is to establish exercise and mental health not merely as individual offerings, but as an integral part of university life. This encompasses the design of teaching and learning spaces, new didactic approaches, as well as visions for future campus policy.
At the nationwide launch event, it became clear just how important collaboration between the funded universities is. Pia Laemmert emphasises:
“Networking among the funded universities was very clearly the focus of the launch event, and it demonstrated that we are stronger when we work together. The regional and thematic exchange formats have me looking forward to everything that lies ahead.”
With MindMotion, the University of Bayreuth is sending a strong signal about how modern universities can take a holistic approach to health and shape it. MindMotion is part of the University of Bayreuth’s University Health Management programme and is being implemented in close collaboration with the University Sports Department.
