 Finding Community Through Movement and Physical Wellness
Dear Greyhounds,
Movement isn’t just about working out. It is about discovering who you are, connecting with others, and creating spaces where you feel welcome. This month, as the weather cools down and stress starts ramping up again, I wanted to focus on how fitness and physical activity can strengthen both your body and your sense of belonging.
This is your reminder that wellness looks like joy, confidence, and taking up space.
Healthy Hound Highlight
Em McGrath (They/She), Class of 2026
Student Leader, Outdoor Adventure Experience and Rock Wall Belayer
Right now at Loyola, students like Em are making outdoor spaces more accessible, inclusive, and joyful for everyone. With nearly four years of experience leading rock climbing and paddleboarding trips, Em has played a significant role in building spaces of queer community and courage. I had the chance to interview Em about how outdoor recreation became that kind of refuge here on campus:
“I get the opportunity to lead other students and professors on outdoor trips… I get to help people aspire toward their climbing goals, whatever they may be!”
Their connection to nature started early:
“Nature was the place that allowed me to learn how to be myself.”
Adjusting to city life was difficult at first:
“When I went on OAE’s Pre Fall I discovered there were opportunities right in front of me!”
Before Loyola, inclusivity was rare:
“People who were ‘different’… were not held in high regard. I was one of the only people publicly out of the closet.”
That changed here:
“Creating spaces for all was a possibility and necessity — and there were people who actually wanted to work toward that goal.”
But challenges still exist:
“It is undeniably hard to be a queer person in any space, and the outdoors is unfortunately not much different.”
“Long-standing financial barriers make the outdoors only accessible to those who have the money… any other kind of individual has been and is still met with hostility and indifference.”
Em believes queerness and nature belong together:
“The outdoors is inherently a space that holds no expectations, rules, or judgements… regardless of who you are… nature is a refuge.”
Representation matters:
“Being able to offer a unique lived experience to others will generate conversations about belonging… someone else may feel empowered to belong in the outdoors too.”
Education, to Em, is about connection:
“No two people will learn things the same way… if people are interested in learning more… I’d call that a success.”
Their advice for cultivating safer outdoor spaces:
“Always be willing to listen. Learn to let people just be.”
“Be intentional with every trip you take… make sure you are holding up the inclusive space for everyone.”
Want to get involved?
“The Rock Wall is super easy to get involved in!… All you need to worry about bringing is yourself, excited to climb.”
Upcoming Event
Try something new at Pride! Climbing Night, Monday, November 10th from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at the Fitness and Aquatic Center’s Rock Wall. All levels are welcome and all equipment is provided, along with snacks, encouragement, and community. Come climb, connect, and celebrate who you are.
Finding Belonging Through Movement
Physical wellness is community wellness
Fitness environments like the gym, group classes, or outdoor recreation spaces can help:
• Build friendships and trust
• Reduce stress and worry
• Improve mood and confidence
• Provide identity-affirming support
• Help you feel grounded and empowered
Movement looks different for everyone. Dancing, walking, stretching, climbing — if it feels good and natural to you, it totally counts.
Why This Matters
Movement is a chance to feel proud of your body and supported by people around you. As queer students, finding spaces where you can breathe, relax, and connect with others who see you fully is an important part of wellness. Community care is self-care.
Fitness + Nutrition = Strength and Confidence
Nourishing your body is an essential part of wellness. Here are a few things to consider:
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Goal
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What Helps
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Why It Matters
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Pre-activity fuel
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Banana and nut butter, yogurt, trail mix
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Boosts energy and prevents dizziness
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Recovery
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Chocolate milk, fruit and a granola bar
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Rebuilds muscle energy
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Hydration
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Water before and during activity
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Supports focus and performance
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Campus Tip
If you ever need help accessing snacks, groceries, or nutrition support, the Thrive Center can help you find resources and make a plan that works for you. No one has to do wellness alone.
Seeking help with nutrition is strength, not shame.
When you move your body, you are not just exercising. You are expressing your identity, claiming joy, and strengthening your community.
Stay Connected
Follow @Loyolalgbtq on Instagram for updates on wellness events, community spaces, and student spotlights like this one.
You deserve to feel safe, supported, and celebrated wherever you show up, and we are building that together.
Take care, try something new, and as always, remember:
You belong here!
With respect,
Juan Varon, Class of 2027
Biology Major | Health and Human Experience Minor
Health and Wellness Outreach Coordinator — LGBTQ+ Student Services
jevaron@loyola.edu
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