Community Seminar Series: Autumn Health Picks 2026 Registration

Join the Interdisciplinary Health Sciences Institute and University of Illinois Extension for a series on a variety of health topics. Pick and choose programs based on interest.

All sessions are offered via Zoom on Wednesdays at noon (CST) from October 7 - November 18, 2026.

October 7 | Active Moments, Healthier Days: Reducing the Risks of Too Much Sitting

Even if you meet recommended physical activity guidelines, spending long periods sitting can affect your health. This session explores how too much sitting influences metabolism, energy levels, and long-term well-being. Learn practical, research-based strategies for incorporating more movement into your daily routine, reducing the effects of sedentary time, and supporting overall health through simple changes. Presenter: Vilma Gómez

October 14 | Inside the Stress Response: Understanding the Amygdala's Role

Why do we react to stress the way we do? This session explores the role of the amygdala, a key part of the brain involved in processing emotions and triggering the body's fight-or-flight response. Learn how the amygdala helps us respond to challenges and what researchers are discovering about the connections between the brain, stress, and our reactions. Presenter: Sreelaya Bhamidi

October 21 | Mapping Change: Exploring English Use and Gentrification in Puerto Rico

Communities across Puerto Rico are experiencing changes in language use, population patterns, and neighborhood development. This session explores a community-led mapping project examining the relationship between increasing English use and concerns about gentrification and displacement. Learn how activists and researchers are working together to document these changes, increase spatial awareness, and better understand their impact on community identity and well-being. Presenter: Karla Sanabria Véaz

October 28 | Mindfulness and Music in Early Childhood: Supporting Attention and Emotional Regulation

Early childhood is an important time for developing attention, emotional regulation, and coping skills. This session explores how mindfulness and music-related activities may support these emerging abilities. Learn about common approaches, including rhythmic movement, breathing exercises, mindful listening, and music-based attention activities, while exploring what current research suggests and highlighting important considerations for parents, educators, and health professionals. Presenter: Hong Li

November 4 | Beyond the Stigma: Conversations and Care in the Opioid Crisis

Opioid use disorder affects communities across Illinois and beyond. This session explores how stigma shapes conversations about substance use and influences whether people seek support and access treatment. Learn how attitudes and language can influence health outcomes and discover practical ways individuals and communities can help reduce stigma and support recovery. Presenter: Sami Pierce

November 11 | Understanding the Fear of Falling: Insights for Wheelchair and Scooter Users

Concern about falling is a common experience for many people who use wheelchairs and scooters, yet it is often overlooked in research and clinical care. This session explores what we know about how clinicians and researchers assess fears about falling and highlights areas where important gaps remain. Learn how rehabilitation professionals approach these conversations and what can be done to better support mobility, confidence, and quality of life for wheelchair and scooter users. Presenter: Sahel Moein

November 18 | Embracing Differences: Mindfulness that Supports Families of Neurodivergent Children

Raising a neurodivergent child can bring joys, challenges, and stressors for families. This session explores differences in social-emotional development between neurodivergent and neurotypical children, the experiences of families raising neurodivergent children, and the role mindfulness may play in supporting family well-being. Learn how family-centered mindfulness practices can help foster awareness, connection, and compassion for both children and caregivers. Presenter: Kai-Ning Wang

Registrants must create and sign in to a personal or work Zoom account to access the webinar sessions.

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate, contact Dee Walls at walls1@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.