FSU’s third annual SPARK Week promotes the importance of students’ physical and mental health

To help promote the importance of physical and mental health as part of health care, Florida State University Campus Recreation is hosting its third annual SPARK Week, Feb. 24-28. From interactive art pieces, Pilates, mindfulness workshops and an end-of-week- celebration, students have many opportunities to engage.

“Each year, the campaign has grown and has been more widely received,” said Kari DiDonato, assistant director for marketing, membership and events at FSU Campus Recreation. “It’s such an inspiring week to be around students who are just as excited to spread the message of positive mental and cognitive health. I feel lighter and happier coming to work during SPARK Week.”

Inspired by Dr. John Ratey’s book “The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain,” SPARK is a holistic wellness campaign that focuses on the transformative effects on the brain when physical and mental health is enacted. FSU’s Campus Recreation, along with partners engaged in the Exercise is Medicine On Campus initiative, are dedicated to helping students ignite their inner flame to become more active, feel healthier and live better.

FSU has promoted the SPARK campaign for more than six years and, for the past three, has dedicated an entire week to host events and activities as a reminder to spark positivity, spark activity and spark mental health awareness.

Exercise is Medicine® (EIM) is a global health initiative managed by the American College of Sports Medicine that encourages health care providers to include physical activity when designing treatment plans for patients and referring their patients to EIM credentialed exercise and exercise professionals. FSU was first recognized in August 2024 as a participating EIM member.

For more information about SPARK and upcoming events, visit campusrec.fsu.edu/spark.

Spark Week Events:

Monday, Feb. 24 (Open all week)

Catch a Spark, Start a Spark
Student Union
Participate in our interactive art piece; read and leave encouraging messages.

Tuesday, Feb. 25

Find Your Spark | 1-3 p.m.
Dr. Bobby E. Leach Student Recreation Center
Participate in an uplifting activity to learn more about SPARK and the wellness services offered. Plus, spin the wheel to win SPARK merch!

Wednesday, Feb. 26

Spark It at the Market | 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Market Wednesday, Legacy Walk
Stop by our table for some exclusive merchandise and play yard games.

Thursday, Feb. 27

Lift Your Mind & Body | 1-2 p.m.
Landis Green
Join us for an outdoor Pilates class and mindfulness conversations to help relieve physical, mental and emotional stress. Register on Rec Connect or the FSU Rec app to participate.

Friday, Feb. 28

SPARK FEST! | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Landis Green
Join us for yard games, mindfulness and wellness activities, Sneauxballs food truck and a chance to get an exclusive SPARK shirt. Make a pledge to make the Exercise is Medicine initiative a priority in your life and the lives of others on campus!

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