Morrison Bruce Center

Nature Break Week: Reset Your Mind

Feeling overwhelmed? Step outside. Studies show that even short nature breaks can reduce stress hormones and improve attention and cognitive performance. Try adding a quick “nature reset” to your day:

20 minutes outside without your phone
Read or study in a green space
Take a quiet walk to clear your head
Practice deep breathing outdoors

Sometimes your brain doesn’t need more screen time, it needs fresh air.

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National Outdoors Month Challenge: Move Outside!

This week, take your movement outdoors. Research suggests that physical activity performed in natural environments may increase enjoyment and positive feelings compared to indoor exercise, which can help you stay consistent. Before or after your daily schedule, whether it be work, school, or errands, try:

A brisk walk around campus
A short run on local trails
A bodyweight circuit at the park
A casual game with friends
Stretching in the sunshine

It’s not about how hard you push; it’s about getting outside and getting your body moving. Small, consistent efforts in fresh air can go a long way.

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Happy National Outdoors Month!

June is National Outdoors Month, a time to recognize the powerful impact that time outside can have on our physical, mental, and social well-being.

Research shows that spending time in natural environments is associated with:
Lower stress levels
Improved focus and cognitive function
Increased physical activity
Greater social connection

Throughout this month, we will be sharing weekly posts focused on outdoor movement ideas, mental health benefits of nature, and ways to build connections through outdoor activities. Whether it’s a short walk, a study break in the sun, or a weekend adventure, small moments outside can make a big difference.

Stay tuned each Friday as we explore how to make the most of National Outdoors Month!

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Spring 2026: What a semester at the Morrison Bruce Center! This spring, our students, partners, and community came together to bring our mission to life: Empowering women and girls through movement, education, and connection.

Programs in Action: From Families in Motion and Healthy Kids, to EmpowHER, Girls Have HEART, Fitness Sampler, and Gus Bus, our programs created meaningful opportunities for participants of all ages to build confidence, learn new skills, and experience the joy of movement.

Community Impact: Through strong partnerships and outreach, we continued to connect with the Harrisonburg community- meeting families, women, and youth where they are and creating spaces that are welcoming, engaging, and empowering.

Research in Action: Our students extended their learning beyond the classroom by contributing to research exploring how physical activity supports well-being, including improvements in mood and energy; research related to practicum and internship experiences; and research related to our Girls Have HEART and EmpowHER programs.

Student Leadership: MBC interns and practicum students took the lead- designing programs, facilitating sessions, and gaining real-world experience that prepares them for future careers in Kinesiology and Heath Science related fields.

We’re so proud of our students, partners, and participants who continue to bring the MBC mission to life every day.
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The Morrison Bruce Center is proud to recognize three of our incredible Spring 2026 Research Fellows: Megan Cropper, Alexis Downey, and Marija Krnetic, who presented research posters at the Kinesiology Banquet earlier this Spring! These students have spent the semester engaging in meaningful, hands-on research that advances our mission of promoting health, confidence, and community for women and girls. Their dedication, curiosity, and commitment to evidence-based practice truly embody the spirit of the MBC.
💙💚 JMU College of Health and Behavioral Studies JMU Research, Economic Development and Innovation

Today we are highlighting our new Fitness Sampler program. Fitness Sampler gives established social groups (such as sororities, a neighborhood mom’s group, or a breast cancer survivor group) the opportunity to partner with the Morrison Bruce Center to explore a variety of group-based fitness experiences. Because social support is a powerful factor in starting and maintaining regular exercise, this program leverages the group’s built-in support system to encourage members to build and sustain active, healthy lifestyles. We are thrilled to have offered our first semester of Fitness Sampler this Spring! 💙💚

Last month, we were honored to celebrate alongside the Community Engagement & Volunteer Center (CEVC) at the Community‑Campus Celebration Breakfast! At the Morrison Bruce Center (MBC) we share CEVC’s commitment to meaningful, reciprocal community partnerships that empower students and create real‑world impact beyond the classroom.
Huge congratulations to Emily Barner, nominee for Outstanding Student Partner CUP award, and Jill Lassiter, nominee for Outstanding Faculty Partner CUP award. Their work reflects the heart of MBC- engaged learning, collaboration, and service rooted in well‑being. 💙💚

Our Spring Newsletter has been published! This Spring, the Morrison Bruce Center (MBC) continued its mission of promoting health and connection throughout the community. Through youth programs, outreach initiatives, and student-led research, the MBC empowers individuals to develop lifelong wellness habits. With the support of community partners, donors, and volunteers, these programs continue to make a meaningful and lasting impact. 💙💚

Click the link to read more! 👉 (https://ow.ly/zmJC50YUJXF)