Our Light's Still On
At UVA and across higher education, the post-graduation, end-of-semester period typically grows quiet and calm as classrooms go dark. This year, however, is no ordinary one. And the Compassionate Care Initiative is determined to keep its light burning.
This spring, in an effort to continue supporting individuals' and community resilience through the COVID-19 crisis, CCI quickly shifted its regular drop-in classes to virtual ones—everything from yoga, meditation, and t’ai chi, to a weekly Zoom discussion with compassion leaders and advocates. Uptake has been strong. So in light of continuing stressors as our students, staff, faculty, clinicians, and community members deal with uncertainty brought on by the pandemic, CCI’s virtual offerings will continue uninterrupted, at least through the end of June.
“CCI’s virtual offerings enable us to deepen our connection with one another, which is critical right now."
Hannah Crosby, assistant director of the Compassionate Care Initiative, and a yoga instructor
“Although the spring semester is over, life for many at UVA and across the health system isn't winding down, so it’s more critical than ever to practice and promote resilience and remain connected,” said Lili Powell, the Kluge Professor and CCI's interim director. “As furloughs, budget reductions, and scheduling changes continue to impact people’s lives, we’re open for business in June. If you’re in need of ways to buoy your spirit, the CCI is here to help you restore, refresh, and renew.”
Daily virtual programming includes daily Mindful Pauses, a weekly art class, weekly yoga, thrice-weekly meditation, an early morning guided t'ai chi class, as well as occasional visits with Kenny the therapy dog and his handler, psychiatric-mental health nursing professor Edie Barbero.
“Though world circumstances forced us to adapt quickly, CCI’s virtual offerings enable us to deepen our connection with one another, which is critical right now,” said Hannah Crosby, CCI's assistant director. “We often hear from students and alumni that our programming has helped them develop a more compassionate awareness and presence in their work, so we're happy to continue our work given the need."
CCI SCHEDULE (all times are EST)
- MONDAYS
4-4:15 PM A Mindful Pause, with the UVA Mindfulness Center - TUESDAYS
1-4:45 PM Guided meditation, with Betty Mooney
4-4:15 PM A Mindful Pause, with the UVA Mindfulness Center
5:30-6:30 PM Mindfulness meditation, with Sam Green - WEDNESDAYS
7:30-8:30 AM T’ai Chi, with Hiromi Johnson
9-9:30 AM Creativity Break, with George Andrews
4-4:15 PM A Mindful Pause, with the UVA Mindfulness Center - THURSDAYS
1-1:45 PM Guided meditation, with Betty Mooney
4-4:15 PM A Mindful Pause, with the UVA Mindfulness Center - FRIDAYS
4-4:15 PM A Mindful Pause, with the UVA Mindfulness Center
5:15-6:15 PM Yoga, with Hannah Crosby
CCI’s virtual offerings underscore the School of Nursing’s commitment to care for the whole community, and its programs are free, open to all, and beginner-friendly. For more information, visit the CCI home page.