A series of wellness initiatives recently launched across Keck Medicine of USC aim to encourage healthy living among physicians, nurses and staff.

The initiatives include meditation practice, healthy eating and personal fitness tracking. They were created with the help of community partners and the Keck Wellness Committee, an interdisciplinary group of staff members who work to promote healthy living among their colleagues.

“I encourage all physicians, nurses and staff to take advantage of these unique opportunities to cut down on stress and take steps toward a healthier life,” said Rod Hanners, CEO, Keck Medical Center of USC and COO, Keck Medicine of USC. “Because stress is inevitable in our lives, healthy, positive living must be a priority for all of us across Keck Medicine.”

Among the initiatives is a partnership with Headspace, a pioneering meditation app that guides listeners through simple and effective meditation exercises. Practicing meditation on a regular basis has been found to improve focus and sleep, and lower stress.

To create a free Headspace account, visit https://www.headspace.com/keckmedusc and use code CCUSC1Y.

Additionally, the Keck Wellness Committee is launching a six-week Heartfulness meditation group class series supported by the Heartfulness Institute at Keck Hospital of USC, USC Verdugo Hills Hospital and USC Norris Cancer Hospital. Classes began Jan. 10 in the Coliseum Room at Keck Hospital of USC and continue on Tuesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Classes at USC-VHH and USC Norris will be coming soon.

A bounty of healthy lunch and fresh food options is available at the Keck Farmers Market, which is held every Tuesday at Hazard Park, on Norfolk Street across from Keck Hospital Gold Lobby. A portion of the market’s proceeds will benefit the local neighborhood surrounding our campus through the Hazard Park Community Center.

Starting at the end of January, faculty and staff are encouraged to participate in the first Fitbit Wellness Challenge. The Fitbit is wearable technology that allows you to track exercise, calorie intake, weight and sleep with real-time information and monitors your progress toward goals.

— Douglas Morino