Fit Future

The Department of English and Cultural Studies at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, conducted a wellness-focused event titled “Fit Futures” on Friday, 11 April 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM at the Activity Hub, Central Block. This initiative was conceptualized as part of the department’s commitment to fostering holistic education and student well-being, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being.

The resource person for the session was Dr. Amrita Yogendra Pande, Assistant Professor and faculty expert in Physical Education. Her engaging facilitation encouraged students to reflect on the role of physical health in academic and personal growth. The session welcomed participation from the MA English with Digital Humanities (MA EDH) students, who responded with enthusiasm and openness.

“Fit Futures” aimed to move beyond conventional academic discussions by emphasizing the significance of physical wellness in daily routines. Dr. Pande began by introducing students to key concepts of fitness and its long-term benefits. She discussed how academic success and mental clarity are linked to consistent physical activity, good posture, breathing techniques, and a balanced lifestyle. The session also addressed health challenges students face due to sedentary habits and extended screen time, especially within digitally intensive learning environments.

A notable part of the session was a practical demonstration of simple movements and mindfulness exercises that can be easily adopted. These included stretching, posture awareness, and breathing techniques to reduce stress and improve focus. The students participated actively, raising thoughtful questions and reflecting on how to apply these practices in their academic life.

The event served not only to promote health awareness but also to cultivate a long-term culture of wellness within the department. It reinforced the idea that physical well-being is essential to academic success and not separate from it. By aligning the session with SDG 3, the department strengthened its commitment to sustainable and student-centered growth.

Expected outcomes such as increased awareness of physical fitness, the adoption of mindful habits, and an integrated understanding of wellness as part of academic success were evident. The session prompted students to think critically about their lifestyle choices and how these affect both their physical and mental well-being. Feedback from students highlighted the session’s relevance and called for similar initiatives to be integrated regularly.

In conclusion, “Fit Futures” successfully bridged the gap between physical education and digital academic culture. It offered students a moment to pause, reflect on their health, recharge their motivation, and gain practical strategies for long-term resilience. The department plans to build on this momentum by embedding wellness-focused programs into its academic and co-curricular offerings, thereby fostering a more balanced, mindful, and sustainable learning environment.