About

Kelsie's Story

"When I first started college as a pre-dental student, the transition was a lot harder than I expected. I was constantly stressed, barely sleeping, and struggled to keep up with everything. Over time, I started seeking out resources on campus—mental health support, nutrition advice, and even workshops on managing screen time and setting personal boundaries. Slowly, I built healthier habits, found a routine that worked for me, and started feeling like myself again. Learning to take care of my mind and body made all the difference in how I perform academically and how I feel every day."
— Kelsie, Pre-Dental Student

About Us

The Bloomington Wellness Initiative (BWI) was founded in 2022 by Usmaan Chaudhary, then an undergraduate student at Indiana University in Bloomington, IN. BWI emerged from a desire to support fellow students who were struggling to feel balanced and well in their lives as college students.
BWI’s mission is to equip Indiana University students with the tools, education, and community support needed to cultivate holistic wellness. Recognizing the complex and interconnected challenges of student life, BWI focuses on five essential pillars of well-being:

Mental Health: BWI promotes emotional resilience and psychological well-being through peer support networks, stress management workshops, and partnerships with counseling services. The goal is to reduce stigma and help students access the mental health care they deserve.

Nutrition and Body: Understanding the critical link between what we eat and how we feel, BWI offers education on balanced nutrition, body positivity, and mindful eating. We aim to support students in building healthy, sustainable relationships with food and their bodies.

Fitness and Sleep: BWI emphasizes the importance of physical movement and rest in achieving wellness. Through guided fitness sessions, sleep hygiene resources, and wellness challenges, we help students reconnect with their bodies and restore energy through rest and recovery.

Digital Wellness: In an age of constant connectivity, BWI helps students establish healthy boundaries with technology. We provide resources on managing screen time, navigating social media mindfully, and reducing digital burnout to promote focus and self-awareness.

Communication and Boundaries: Healthy relationships begin with clear communication and respect for personal space. BWI hosts workshops and discussions that teach assertiveness, active listening, and boundary-setting — essential skills for navigating academic, social, and professional life.

Through these five core areas, BWI is committed to creating a culture of intentional wellness at Indiana University—one that empowers students to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.