RMUTL has developed a holistic framework that supports physical and mental health, encourages active living, and ensures open access to campus sports and recreational areas for students, staff, and local communities. These programmes reflect RMUTL’s long-term vision of building a supportive, health-oriented university environment where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive — physically, mentally, and socially.
Promoting Holistic Wellness through the “Healthy Body, Happy Mind” Programme
The Student Development Division launched the “Healthy Body, Happy Mind” initiative during the 2024 academic year to enhance the well-being of students and staff. This programme is part of the university’s broader commitment to proactive health promotion and the creation of a vibrant campus culture that integrates physical activity, relaxation, and social connection.
A key highlight is the BASLOP rhythmic dance exercise, a creative and culturally inspired aerobic dance session now in its third year. Incorporating Thai folk and contemporary music, BASLOP makes fitness fun and socially engaging, improving cardiovascular strength while reducing stress.
In addition, RMUTL hosts “Healthy & Relax” sessions every Wednesday and Friday (4:00–5:00 p.m.) at the university’s main canteen in Chiang Mai. These sessions include stretching, light aerobics, breathing techniques, and mindfulness exercises in an open, welcoming environment that encourages participation without registration.
Faculty, staff, and students from various departments join regularly, building community bonds while promoting long-term physical and mental wellness. These activities have helped reduce risks associated with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes, while improving emotional resilience.
“Walk-Run Challenge”: Encouraging Physical Fitness and Self-Motivation
To strengthen a culture of active living, the RMUTL Health Promotion Unit organized the “Walk-Run Challenge: 40 Kilometres for Health” from 7 – 31 August 2024. The event motivated participants to complete 40 km of walking or running within one month, using fitness-tracking apps to record progress.
Over 200 participants — both students and staff — joined the challenge, demonstrating strong engagement in healthy living. Participants who completed the distance received an official event shirt as recognition of their dedication and commitment to wellness.
Beyond promoting exercise, the challenge created a sense of belonging and mutual encouragement, transforming RMUTL’s open spaces into a shared fitness zone. Groups frequently ran or walked after work and class hours, cultivating teamwork and friendship.
Shared Facilities: Building the Foundation for Health and Accessibility
RMUTL’s physical environment has been purposefully developed to support wellness. According to the university’s Campus Life – Facilities overview, the Central Sports Stadium in Doi Saket, Chiang Mai, opened in 2018, provides a full-scale sports venue equipped with lighting, parking, and scoreboards. It serves as the primary venue for both university and community sports events.
Beyond traditional sports grounds, RMUTL also prioritizes active mobility by establishing:
- Pedestrian walkways, ensuring safety and accessibility across campus.
- Bicycle-friendly infrastructure, including a bike-service programme that promotes sustainable, low-emission travel.
- Outdoor recreation zones, allowing informal fitness, yoga, and group activities.
Accessible Health Services and Outreach Support
Complementing physical infrastructure, RMUTL provides comprehensive on-campus health services to ensure immediate care and preventive support. The university’s First Aid Room, located within the Student Development Division, is open Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., offering basic medical assistance and referrals for more serious cases.
RMUTL also operates a Psychological Counseling Service that provides mental-health screening, emotional support, and individual consultations by trained psychologists. Students can visit in person or make appointments through the “RMUTL Student Care” Facebook page. These services enhance mental well-being and reflect RMUTL’s emphasis on nurturing balanced, resilient learners.
Creating a Culture of Participation and Sustainable Well-being
RMUTL’s wellness efforts are not isolated projects but part of a long-term health-promotion ecosystem that blends outreach, facilities, and community engagement. All health-related activities are inclusive, voluntary, and free of charge, ensuring equitable access for everyone.
Moreover, RMUTL extends its wellness philosophy to surrounding communities. Local residents occasionally participate in events such as walk-run activities and fitness sessions, fostering positive university-community relationships.
References:
- Facilities: “Facilities – Rajamangala University of Technology Lanna (RMUTL)” — https://eng.rmutl.ac.th/campus-life/facilities/ eng.rmutl.ac.th
- Health Service: “Health service – RMUTL Campus Life” — https://en.rmutl.ac.th/campus-life/health-service/ en.rmutl.ac.th
- Campus Life overview: “Campus Life – RMUTL” — https://en.rmutl.ac.th/campus-life/ eng.rmutl.ac.th