The Essex website uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are consenting to their use. Please visit our cookie policy to find out which cookies we use and why. View cookie policy.

Employment information
Applying for a role Starting at Essex Employment policies, procedures and guidance Pay, rewards and benefits Pensions People systems and information Contracts Leaving the University Sickness absence Taking leave Working flexibly PDR and reviews UECS and Wivenhoe House employees Information and data
Information for managers
Managing recruitment Compliance Managing new employees Managing flexible working Leave Sickness absence Employment, policies and procedures Managing pay and reward Resolving problems Managing performance and development Change management
Health, safety and wellbeing
Emergencies, security and safety Safeguarding Fire safety Health and safety policies and procedures Health and safety responsibilities and support Working safely Assessing risks Occupational health services Supporting health and wellbeing
Professional development and training
Development at Essex Essential training Learning Event Catalogue Professional development Educator development Research development People management development Leadership programmes Digital skills
Equality, diversity and inclusion
Our commitment to diversity and inclusion Inclusive Essex EDI resources, training and support EDI calendar Report and Support service
Our University
Brand Departments and schools Faculty support Forums and networks Freedom of information Governance Graduation Sustainability and biodiversity University partnerships
Services and facilities
Buildings, grounds and maintenance Crowdfunding Childcare Design, print and copy services Events, meetings and conferences Faith Centre Finance, planning and data insight Food and drink IT services Marketing and communications support Media Centre Parking Post and property services Professional Services teams Sport and recreation Strategic project delivery Student work experience and volunteering Theatre and arts on campus Travel, transport and accommodation Web support
Research
Funding sources Making a funding application Research impact Promoting your research and research visibility Research governance Take part in research Managing an award Planning and assessment Knowledge exchange and commercialisation Research systems Repository and publishing Research management information Celebrating Excellence Awards
Education services
Academic standards and quality DBS checks for students Department student support roles Developing student success Exams and assessment Heads of Department Learning technologies Reading lists Staff awards and funding Student feedback Student wellbeing support and signposting Supporting students with disabilities and health conditions Supporting and welcoming new students Timetables
Online services
Email login Research Information System Research Repository Room booking form Unit4 Business World Phonebook Change your password
People and Culture
HR Organiser People Manager Develop at Essex Homepage Job vacancies
Academic
Moodle Libraries Academic departments FASER LEAP Programme specifications Reading lists (Talis Aspire)
Info and help
Find your way campus map IT services Tableau Planning information portal Key dates Staff blog Report harassment Report a concern about student
Staff Directory Home Health and wellbeing Wellbeing Wednesdays

Wellbeing Wednesdays

Wellbeing Wednesdays are sessions which provide staff and students an opportunity to take a break from their day and focus on their own wellbeing.

Facilitated by Workplace Health, Safety and Wellbeing (WHSW), Wellbeing Wednesdays have been ongoing since May 2022, becoming weekly in September 2022.  

Current activities:

  • Nordic Walking sessions are held every week - regardless of the weather - and is only available in person at Colchester Campus. See below for more details. 

Previous activities - recordings of sessions are available on the Wellbeing Directory (via Moodle): 

If you have any queries, please email ohquery@essex.ac.uk. 

Activities

Nordic Walking

What is Nordic Walking?

Nordic Walking is a low-impact, full-body exercise that uses specially designed poles to engage the arms and core muscles while walking. The poles help to distribute effort between the upper and lower body, making walking easier and reducing the pressure on joints. Due to this, Nordic Walking can be beneficial for anyone who has mobility issues, is recovering from an injury, or has a long-term condition such as arthritis.

Nordic Walking is a great option if you dislike or struggle with motivation to exercise as the walks are group sessions, providing an opportunity for socialisation and accountability. 

Our Nordic Walking sessions

Sessions are delivered by a qualified Nordic Walking Instructor and are aimed at people of all abilities. Beginners are taught the correct technique before the group sets off on the walk, enjoying the scenery around campus along the way.

The group leaves at 12:10 from outside the Silberrad Student Centre, and returns by 1pm.

Walking poles are provided if needed, but you should ensure you wear comfortable clothing and suitable walking shoes or trainers. Please ensure you have filled out a Health Declaration (.docx) and bring it with you to your first session.

Staff can book in via HR Organiser, students please email ohquery@essex.ac.uk. 

Sessions are currently limited to 8 people due to availability of poles. If you have your own poles, you are not required to book through HR Organiser, but please let us know you will be attending via email. 

Also see
Mindfulness - Wellbeing Directory
British Nordic Walking
Yoga - Wellbeing Directory
Arrow symbol
Contact us
Occupational Health team
Telephone: 01206 872399

  • University of Essex
  • Wivenhoe Park
  • Colchester CO4 3SQ

 

CONNECT WITH US
© 2025 University of Essex. All rights reserved