Health Resources

• Take care of your body. Drink plenty of fluids, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat nutritious foods. Participate in various resources from Pepperdine's Campus Recreation department.
• Stay mentally healthy. Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. For relaxation, light a candle or set up a diffuser with a calming scent, such as lavender.
• Make time to unwind. Pursue activities that you enjoy such as reading a book, cooking a healthy meal, taking a walk outside, or playing games with loved ones. Listen to calming sounds, such as nature sounds, when going to sleep.
• Seek out resources. Rewatch previous Pepperdine webinars on various topics such as navigating relationships, leading through fearful times, and performance management.
• Practice mindfulness. Take deep breaths, stretch, work out, or meditate. Use online resources such as LinkedIn Learning, for free learning, meditation, and virtual exercise programs. Surround your space with bright colors that bring positivity. The Thrive Wellness Program also has LinkedIn Learning Paths specifically devoted to the yearly wellness topics.
• Create a routine. Log your healthy habits on the HealthAdvocate website to maintain accountability.
• Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about how you are feeling. Reference resources or articles on managing stress through the HealthAdvocate website.
• Ask a professional for help. Call your healthcare provider or the Employee Assistance Program if stress gets in the way of your daily activities. Call 866-799-2728 to make a free, confidential appointment for you or your dependent(s) through EAP.

This information has been offered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Speak with a doctor quickly and without having to go to the office! Both Kaiser and Anthem members have access to medical professionals through telemedicine, details below. Additionally, the testing and treatment of Coronavirus are 100% covered by Pepperdine plans.

Live Health Online
A quick and free sign-up gives Anthem members and non-members 24/7 access to doctors through LiveHealth Online. Once on the platform, most people can video chat with a doctor through their smartphone, tablet, or computer in 10 minutes or less. Access the LiveHealth Online app, visit livehealthonline.com, or call 1-888-548-3432.

Kaiser Permanente
Pepperdine University and Kaiser Permanente have partnered to create a new website devoted to Kaiser members. The new site allows employees to view all Kaiser benefits information pertaining to benefits, Evidence of Coverage, and much more. It also links to Kaiser's member & public websites.

This new site can be found by going to https://my.kp.org/pepperdine/.

It's important to maintain our overall health as we navigate our current environment, so we hope that you are able to take advantage of all that your medical providers can assist you with.

Kaiser members can schedule a telephone or video appointment and expect their doctor to call during a one-hour window. Typically, members must have had at least one face-to-face visit to schedule a tele-appointment. For more information, call the number on the back of your membership card or visit https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/get-care.

Kaiser members have access to the Calm and myStrength apps at no cost. These helpful self-care tools can help you ease anxiety, sleep better, and improve focus. For more information, please visit kp.org/selfcareapps.

Kaiser members also have access to ClassPass at no cost. This helpful exercise tool gives members access to over 4,000 on-demand fitness classes, such as cardio, dance, meditation, yoga, and Pilates from top gyms and fitness studios. For more information, please visit kp.org/exercise.

The following resources are available at various times throughout the year or at our health fair. Appointments are required and an email notification will be sent to the community when these opportunities are available.

Fitness Program
Most classes are held in the Tennis Pavilion.

Campus Recreation also hosts outdoor outings and intramural sports leagues.

Weight Center
Pepperdine Campus Recreation's Weight Center is open to all faculty, staff and students. There is no charge to use this facility, but a faculty/staff ID card is required to enter. The center is located in the Firestone Fieldhouse.

Athletics Facilities
Pepperdine has a wide range of well-maintained and available-to-use sports facilities. More details are available at Campus Recreation.

Raleigh Runnels Memorial Pool

Hours of Operation:
Monday - Friday 7 AM - 9 PM
Saturday 11 AM - 7 PM
Sunday 11 AM - 7 PM

Stotsenberg Track

Open to all faculty, staff and students (must have ID)

Ralphs - Straus Tennis Center

Court reservations are not necessary. Faculty and staff may use when courts are available, though athletic teams and PE classes have priority.

Health Programs
The following are available throughout the year. Appointments are required.

• Free Flu Immunization Clinics
• Free Blood-Pressure Checks
• Free Massage Programs & Other Health Screenings
• Bone Density Testing
• Cardiovascular Screening
• Depression Screening

Please call (310) 506-4190 for questions, cost information, or schedules.

Wellness Library
Human Resources constantly updates the Wellness Library collection and is pleased to provide books for your use.

Checkout Instructions

All University employees are welcome, at any time, to check out resources from the Wellness Library. Please contact engagement@pepperdine.edu to check out any available resources for a one-week period.

LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning is a professional development resource offering access to an extensive collection of online courses taught by instructors with real-world experience. Complete courses or individual videos on business, creative, and technology skills and experience learning tailored to you.

The Los Angeles County Library, Orange County Library, and the Thousand Oaks Library all provide library card enabled free access to Linkedin Learning.

To access LinkedIn Learning through your local library, follow the links below to register for a library card, granting you access to LinkedIn Learning. 

Library Card Applications:

• Los Angeles Public Library
  • Visit the LAPL e‑card page and complete the online application.
• Orange County Public Library
  • Visit the OCPL e‑card page and complete the online application.
• City of Thousand Oaks Library
  • Visit the TOL website and complete the online application.

Login to LinkedIn Learning for Library

• To log in, navigate to https://www.linkedin.com/learning/login or open the LinkedIn Learning mobile app.
• Click Sign in with your library card.
• Enter your library ID after www.linkedin.com/learning-login/go/ and click “Continue.”
• Enter your Library card number and PIN then click Continue.

Kaiser Permanente Resources Specifically for Pepperdine Members
Pepperdine University and Kaiser Permanente have partnered to create a new website devoted to Kaiser-specific members. The new site allows employees to view all Kaiser information pertaining to benefits, Evidence of Coverage, and much more. It also links to Kaiser's member & public website.

This new site can be found by going to https://my.kp.org/pepperdine/.

 

ONLINE WELLNESS RESOURCES

At Pepperdine, we believe that true well-being encompasses more than just physical health—it includes your spiritual, emotional, financial, social, and professional life as well. This curated collection of online resources is designed to help you grow and thrive in every dimension of wellness. Whether you're seeking tools for stress management, inspiration for spiritual growth, financial guidance, or strategies to boost your career and relationships, you'll find valuable support here. Explore the categories below to discover podcasts, websites, and YouTube channels that meet you where you are and help move you toward greater balance, purpose, and vitality.

Spiritual:

Engage with podcasts, videos, and articles that offer insights into faith, spiritual growth, and well-being.

• Podcasts:
  
  • Think Biblically: A weekly podcast hosted by Scott Rae and Sean McDowell, professors at Biola University's Talbot School of Theology, offering Christian perspectives on significant issues facing today's church and culture. Each episode draws on biblical wisdom and insights from guest experts to explore how Christians can thoughtfully and faithfully engage with cultural trends and current events.
  • Unbelievable: Hosted by Justin Brierley, this thought-provoking podcast creates a space for respectful dialogue between Christians and non-Christians. Each episode tackles challenging questions about faith, science, ethics, and philosophy, fostering understanding through engaging debates and conversations.
• Websites:
  
  • DesiringGod.org: Offers articles, sermons, and resources to help believers deepen their relationship with Christ. Its content is centered on cultivating lasting joy in Him through biblical truth.
  • BibleGateway.com – A searchable online Bible with various translations and study tools. It supports meaningful Bible study by making Scripture easy to explore and understand.
• YouTube Channels:
  • Spoken Gospel: Video explainers on Bible books and themes. Each video highlights how every part of Scripture points to Jesus and the gospel message.
  • The Bible Project: Highly visual and engaging biblical overviews. Its animations help viewers see the unified story of Scripture and how it all points to Jesus.
     

Financial:

Discover content focused on financial literacy and education to support your financial well-being.

• Podcasts:
  • The Money Guy Show: Hosts Brian Preston and Bo Hanson simplify personal finance, offering tips on budgeting, investing, and wealth-building to help listeners achieve financial independence through their financial order of operations.
  • HerMoney with Jean Chatzky: Focuses on financial empowerment, particularly for women. The podcast offers practical advice, expert insights, and real-life stories to help listeners make confident money decisions.
• Websites:
  • NerdWallet.com: Personal finance tools, credit card comparisons, and savings tips. It helps users make informed financial decisions with clear, expert-backed guidance.
  • SmartAboutMoney.org: Free resources and online courses about saving, debt, and retirement. It’s designed to help individuals build financial confidence and make smart money choices.
• YouTube Channels:
  • Two Cents (PBS Digital Studios): Educational, finance series that’s great for beginners. It breaks down money topics in a fun, accessible way to help viewers build smart financial habits.
  • Graham Stephan – A real estate investor and finance YouTuber who shares tips on saving, investing, and smart money habits. He makes financial topics entertaining and easy to grasp.

Emotional/Psychological:

• Podcasts:
  • The Happiness Lab: Based on Yale’s popular course, explores the science of well-being. It provides evidence-based strategies to enhance mental health and happiness.
  • Therapy Chat: Licensed therapist Laura Reagan discusses mental health, trauma, and mindfulness.  It helps listeners navigate mental health challenges with compassion and insight.
• Websites:
  
  • Verywell Mind: Mental health education and self-care strategies. It promotes emotional wellness through reliable, easy-to-understand articles.
  • Gratitude Journaling Prompts: Try PositivePsychology.com’s Free Gratitude Prompts. These prompts help cultivate a positive mindset by encouraging regular reflection on things you’re thankful for.
• YouTube Channels:
  • Headspace: Guided meditations and animations on mindfulness and emotional balance. It provides practical tools to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
  • Mindful.org YouTube Channel: features Gratitude Practice Videos. These videos guide viewers in cultivating appreciation and mindfulness in everyday life.

Physical:

• Podcasts:
  • Mind Pump: Honest, science-based conversations about fitness and wellness. The podcast breaks down myths and provides practical advice for living a healthier life.
  • On Purpose with Jay Shetty: Combines physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It encourages listeners to align their physical, mental, and emotional health.
• Websites:
  • Fitness Blender:  Free workout videos for all levels.  It makes it easy to stay active with minimal equipment.
  • DoYogaWithMe: Online yoga classes that include spiritual and meditative elements.  It supports physical strength, flexibility, and inner calm.
• YouTube Channels:
  • Yoga With Adriene: Accessible, spiritual, and physically mindful practices. Her videos guide viewers of all levels to connect body and mind with ease and intention.
  • SarahBethYoga:Calm yoga practices for strength, restoration, and mindfulness. It encourages regular movement and relaxation.

Professional/Intellectual:

• Podcasts:
  • Coaching for Leaders: Professional development through effective communication and leadership.  It supports professional development and effective communication.
  • HBR IdeaCast: Harvard Business Review’s take on workplace performance and innovation. It features expert interviews and discussions to help listeners navigate today’s business challenges.
• Websites:
  • Coursera.org:Professional certificates and wellness-oriented learning from top universities. It provides flexible learning options to help individuals advance their careers and personal growth.
  • MindTools.com – Offers practical guides for leadership, career planning, and productivity. Its resources help individuals develop essential skills to succeed in the workplace.
• YouTube Channels:
  • LinkedIn Learning: Quick skill development videos in communication, leadership, and mindfulness. It helps professionals build expertise and grow their careers at their own pace.
  • Thomas Frank:Productivity, learning strategies, and personal growth hacks. His content helps viewers optimize their habits and achieve their goals more effectively.

Social:

• Podcasts:
  • We Can Do Hard Things: Glennon Doyle’s exploration of vulnerability, relationships, and resilience. The podcast offers honest conversations that inspire courage and personal growth.
  • Where Should We Begin? – Esther Perel invites listeners into real counseling sessions on relationships and connection. It offers insight into the complexity of human relationships.
• Websites
  • Greater Good Magazine – From UC Berkeley, this site explores the science of empathy, kindness, and connection. It supports building stronger, more compassionate relationships.
  • The School of Life: Philosophical yet accessible content on emotional intelligence and relationships. It provides practical insights to help people live more meaningful and connected lives.
• YouTube Channels:
  • Charisma on Command: Teaches communication and interpersonal skills. It offers practical tips to help individuals build confidence and connect more effectively with others.
  • The Science of People – A behavioral research-based channel that breaks down body language and communication. This channel provides guidance on navigating social situations with clarity and confidence.

We understand that balancing work, family, and your own personal life can be difficult. To better assist in this delicate balance, we are providing at-home videos geared toward children that were created specifically by Pepperdine community members. Additionally, we are providing meditations and other mindfulness exercises to aid in your everyday life. We have also added a section devoted to aiding those who are remote workers. Our Benefits community site also has additional resources for at-home children.

At-Home Child Activity Videos

• A Critical Eye: Tour of the Weisman Museum
• Leonard DaVinci and How to Write Invisible Notes
• Hiking with Alex Howard
• Making Guacamole with the Gin Family
• Pablo Picasso and How to Paint Like Him
• Science Experiment with Mary Kate Spahn

Meditations
Curated by one of our own business school professors, Darren Good has hand-crafted multiple meditation recordings to aid you and your family in finding a time to slow down and be mindful of your body's stress and needs.

• 5-Minute Meditation with PGBS Professor Darren Good
• 10-Minute Meditation with PGBS Professor Darren Good

Spiritual Mindfulness

• Boone Center for the Family COVID-19 Videos and Resources

Remote Volunteering Opportunity

• Support the Ventura County Area Agency on Aging by writing spirited letters of support to older adults living alone in the area. Read more here.

Wellness Tips for the Remote Worker
10 Tips to Enhance Your Well-being While Working Remotely

At-Your-Desk Yoga
This section encompasses a growing collection of yoga exercises that you can do at your desk, at home, solo, or with your family. These videos have been provided by Cecily Breeding who is a double alumna of Pepperdine University (B.A. 2010, M.A. 2018) and teaches yoga and strength training in Pepperdine's Campus Recreation program. If you would like to view additional videos created by Cecily, please view the Pepperdine Campus Recreation program's YouTube channel.

Shoulder Stretching with a Strap

Got tight shoulders? Here's a sequence of stretches and rotations that will get your shoulders mobilized through their full range of motion. ** You'll need to locate a strap of some sort (any 2-3 foot length of material will do, such as a belt, yoga strap, or dog leash)

Been Sitting too Long?

This sequence is ideal for you if you're feeling sore from sitting with poor posture. We'll take our time gently mobilizing the neck, shoulders, upper back, and hips. You might notice that you feel taller afterward!

Sun Salutations

Start slow with breathing and spinal movement, then work your way into a series of gentle vinyasa-style sun salutations, linking breathing with total body movement.

Warrior Sequence

Pair this practice as an add-on to the Sun Salutations video, or dive right in with this moderately energetic standing warrior sequence.

Spinal Mobility

Tight neck or back? Here's a slow and intentional practice that moves your neck and spine in all three movement planes: lateral, frontal, and transverse/rotation. This slower sequence will unwind your spinal tension in the middle or end of the workday or pairs well after the Sun Salutations video, or before or after the Warrior Sequence video.