Health & Wellness   

Stay active and strong during your golden years with guidance from a certified personal trainer. This program blends education and exercise, focusing on functional fitness, cardio, strength, flexibility, balance, and core training. All activities can be modified to meet individual needs, and take-home workout copies are provided. Wear comfortable workout clothes and tennis shoes. Participants must complete a health questionnaire and UNL Rec Center waiver, which will be emailed for electronic signature before the first session.

Learn about a new community-wide effort to increase understanding of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Explore what ACEs are, discover your ACE score, and consider how ACEs affect learning, behavior, and long-term physical and mental health. Examine how ACEs can impact future generations and learn about the work of the Brave fACEs program in raising awareness. Participants will view the documentary “Resilience” and discuss ways to support themselves and others with high ACE scores.

Learn about a new community-wide effort to increase understanding of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Explore what ACEs are, discover your ACE score, and consider how ACEs affect learning, behavior, and long-term physical and mental health. Examine how ACEs can impact future generations and learn about the work of the Brave fACEs program in raising awareness. Participants will view the documentary “Resilience” and discuss ways to support themselves and others with high ACE scores.

This course is ideal for US and international travelers looking to blend physical activity with authentic cultural experiences, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable journey whether on foot or by bike. Topics will include local cultural immersion experiences, such as biking and walking tours or cooking classes, and lots of tips for logistics, inspiration and information, and travel support.

This course is ideal for US and international travelers looking to blend physical activity with authentic cultural experiences, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable journey whether on foot or by bike. Topics will include local cultural immersion experiences, such as biking and walking tours or cooking classes, and lots of tips for logistics, inspiration and information, and travel support.

Advance your home yoga practice through dynamic sequences that integrate meditation, breathwork, and mindful movement. This course emphasizes flowing asanas to enhance balance, strength, and flexibility, fostering a deeper mind- body connection. Designed for those with prior Hatha or Vinyasa experience or completion of OLLI Gentle Yoga, it encourages a consistent home practice. A yoga mat is recommended; please consult your physician before participating.

Learn what autism is—and what it’s not—by exploring how it’s diagnosed, why rates have changed, and what current research says about causes and supports. Parents of now-adult children with autism will share real stories from their journeys, including challenges, surprises, and moments of humor and insight. This session offers a clear, practical, and human look at autism, helping separate common misunderstandings from lived experience.

Learn what autism is—and what it’s not—by exploring how it’s diagnosed, why rates have changed, and what current research says about causes and supports. Parents of now-adult children with autism will share real stories from their journeys, including challenges, surprises, and moments of humor and insight. This session offers a clear, practical, and human look at autism, helping separate common misunderstandings from lived experience.

This ancient wisdom uncovers how your unique constitution can transform your health. Identify your dosha – Vata, Pitta, Kapha – the foundational energies that govern your physical, mental, and emotional harmony. Learn how to recognize imbalances and apply corresponding practices to reset them. Discover how understanding your dosha influences your daily rhythm, how to approach the changing seasons, and what to modify during different phases of life.

This ancient wisdom uncovers how your unique constitution can transform your health. Identify your dosha – Vata, Pitta, Kapha – the foundational energies that govern your physical, mental, and emotional harmony. Learn how to recognize imbalances and apply corresponding practices to reset them. Discover how understanding your dosha influences your daily rhythm, how to approach the changing seasons, and what to modify during different phases of life.

Relax the body and soothe the mind from the comfort of your own home in a remote yoga experience. All you need is a chair with no arm rests and some comfy clothes or pajamas. Expect gentle mobility, breathing techniques, and mindful movement to improve sleep quality, reduce stress and enhance overall well-being.

Since 1982, Operation Smile has provided hundreds of thousands of free surgeries to children with cleft and other facial conditions. Starting in 1985, students in Operation Smile Clubs worldwide have been given the opportunity to play an active role in awareness, fundraising, and education. Learn about this amazing organization and get an insider's view of what happens on these life changing missions.

Since 1982, Operation Smile has provided hundreds of thousands of free surgeries to children with cleft and other facial conditions. Starting in 1985, students in Operation Smile Clubs worldwide have been given the opportunity to play an active role in awareness, fundraising, and education. Learn about this amazing organization and get an insider's view of what happens on these life changing missions.

Cooking for one or two can be satisfying, wholesome and enjoyable! Learn how smaller households can embrace the joy of nourishing meals with ease, creativity and confidence. Discover how to plan, shop and prepare intentional and nutritious meals scaled for one or two.

Understand the stages of dementia, potential treatment options, how to care for a loved one, and prepare for what comes next in your journey.

Discover how psychiatrists make diagnoses and treatment decisions, and how patients and families can advocate for themselves. Explore how psychiatric opinions are formed, what treatments work—and for whom—and how to evaluate your care. Discuss substance use disorders, controversial treatments, social issues, and how to make sense of media reports. 

Explore five essential oils that are especially useful to keep at home. Learn how they support health and well-being, from easing minor discomforts to promoting relaxation. Discover practical, non-medical uses, such as simple cleaning solutions and everyday household applications. Learn to use essential oils in daily life safely and effectively.

Use your kayaking skills to explore one of the many state recreation lakes around Lincoln. Spend the afternoon paddling at Pawnee Lake and Middle Creek, which feeds this reservoir and will provide a great opportunity to see birds and other wildlife. This class is targeted toward paddlers who have participated in one of the previous kayaking classes. All kayaking equipment is provided. You must provide your own entry fee into State Recreation Area.

Join in meditation, breath-work, balance, and mindful movements to reconnect your mind, body, and spirit. Class is for all levels, but poses will include a variety of positions requiring students to get on/off the floor. Instructor will provide modifications as needed. Learn some yoga tidbits to use in your future practice both on and off your mat. No equipment is needed but a yoga mat is encouraged. Consult with your physician prior to participating.

Explore actionable items to increase the odds of a safe hospital stay. Learn how to get a second opinion, interview a surgeon, stay on top of medications, manage tests and results, deal with weekend hospitalizations and more. Empower yourself to take control and effectively manage your own, or a love one’s, healthcare.

Explore actionable items to increase the odds of a safe hospital stay. Learn how to get a second opinion, interview a surgeon, stay on top of medications, manage tests and results, deal with weekend hospitalizations and more. Empower yourself to take control and effectively manage your own, or a love one’s, healthcare.

Step into Bryan’s state-of-the-art Simulation Lab for a hands-on healthcare adventure. Try your hand at taking vital signs, delivering a “baby”, or saving a life using lifelike mannequins. See how healthcare professionals train for real-world situations—without any real-world risks. It’s interactive, educational, and just plain fun.

Step into Bryan’s state-of-the-art Simulation Lab for a hands-on healthcare adventure. Try your hand at taking vital signs, delivering a “baby”, or saving a life using lifelike mannequins. See how healthcare professionals train for real-world situations—without any real-world risks. It’s interactive, educational, and just plain fun.

Research consistently finds that most people aged 50 and older want to stay in their homes and communities as long as possible. The AARP Home Fit session was created to help people stay in the homes they love by turning where they live into a “lifelong home,” suitable and safe for themselves and anyone in their household.

Electric Bikes are a great and accessible way to explore Lincoln’s trail system. There are many health benefits from cycling, from being low impact on your joints to strengthening your cardiovascular system. Having an electric assist on your bike can help you go further and longer. Learn the fundamentals of how to use an E-Bike, the pros and cons and "test ride" one to see if it is right for you.

Recreational kayaking is a great lifetime activity and way to explore and enjoy the lakes in the Lincoln area. This class will introduce you to the basics of kayaking and safety measures so you can start enjoying this new activity on your own. All kayaking equipment is provided.

Discover what assisted senior living can offer through tours of five Lincoln communities. Session one provides an overview of key factors to consider, including social, physical, medical, and financial aspects when choosing an assisted living option. Each following session features a guided tour of a different assisted living community, highlighting unit types, pricing, amenities, and dining. Gain valuable insight into the unique character of each location and start your search with a well-informed, first-hand perspective.

Learn about the disease, changes to expect and how to care for someone on this journey.

When it comes to caring for loved ones, most families don’t have a plan until a crisis happens. Discover how to provide the best care for your loved ones and/or to provide vital information for your children to assist you should that need arise. Receive the tools to plan for future housing needs, caregiving considerations and financial planning for the cost of healthcare. Create a comprehensive plan that includes your home, health, finances, and wishes.

The following package of courses were previously recorded OLLI courses. Learn at your own pace, on your own time and at your convenience. Over 40 hours of programming is available for a single cost of $30. Upon registration, you will receive a confirmation email with the link to the package of courses.

All programming originates from OLLI at UNL.

Braver Angels: Healing Our Democracy – Barbara Dewey (1 session)

The mission of Braver Angels, a national organization, is to heal the dramatic political divide afflicting our nation – not by trying to convince either side that it is wrong but by helping people learn to converse and even disagree in a respectful and civil manner. Learn how a group of concerned volunteers is working to form a Nebraska alliance of Braver Angels and how you can get involved.

Identity Theft: A Consumer Guide – Ryan Sothan (1 session)

Identity theft can affect anyone; learn how to fight back with knowledge and tools. Explore how to monitor credit, report suspicious activity, and use fraud alerts or credit freezes. Learn over a dozen real-world strategies to protect personal information, reduce risk, and respond effectively if compromised. Whether you're securing your finances, your family, or your peace of mind, get equipped with the confidence to stay one step ahead.

Landmark Supreme Court Cases: Free Speech and Press – John Bender (4 sessions)

The First Amendment may seem clear and absolute, but in fact, it is neither. What freedom of speech and the press mean has been the subject of several Supreme Court opinions. This class will examine eight major precedents in four areas: prior restraints, libel, dissent and symbolic expression These cases have shaped our contemporary understanding of freedom of expression.

Tech Basics for Everyday Life – Ryan Sothan (3 sessions)

Build your confidence with smartphones, tablets, and the internet. Learn essential skills to stay safe online, including how to block unwanted calls, shop and bank securely, and protect your credit. Explore common scams affecting Nebraskans and gain hands-on experience with practical tools. Whether reconnecting with loved ones or managing finances, gain the knowledge needed to thrive in today’s connected world.

Global & Regional Water Issues: Challenges and Solutions – Multiple Instructors (2 sessions)

OLLI Symposium – Sept 27, 2025 - Water is one of the most critical resources for sustaining life, agriculture, and economic development. Challenges such as scarcity, pollution, climate change, and equitable distribution continue to threaten water security worldwide and right here in Nebraska. National and local experts examine policies, conservation strategies, and scientific advancements aimed at securing water resources for future generations.

Contact and Conflict – Jeff Barnes (1 session)

More than three centuries of Nebraska’s history during the Plains Indian Wars are marked throughout the state by historical monuments. Explore these instances of “contact and conflict” between Native peoples and European Americans in Nebraska and how they are commemorated, from trading, treaties, war and reconciliation.

A Life Well-Lived: Your Legacy Plan – Kevin Orth and John Love (4 sessions)

This course offers a guided, introspective journey through your past, present, and future. Explore your life story, clarify personal wishes, and create a legacy of love and guidance. Your decisions will bring peace of mind to you and your loved ones, relieving them of difficult choices during emotional times and allowing them to focus on honoring your life and the memories you’ve shared.

Community in a Time of Crisis – Day Hefner (1 session)

While the phrase “unprecedented times” is the refrain we often hear to describe these days, the deep polarization and the challenge of forming a collective identity are by no means new to the church. Explore the struggles of the early church reflected in the Book of Acts and the letters of Paul as they wrestled with how to pull together Gentile and Judean, slave and free, women, men, and so on into a new community, forging a new communal identity in response to the ground-shaking new things God was doing.

Esports at UNL: Engaging Students in 2025 – Instructor: Ryan Tan (1 session)

Esports (short for “electronic sports”) is a rapidly growing sports industry with a multi-billion-dollar market value. Over 500 million people across the world watch or compete in e-sports. This number is projected to grow to 640 million. The varsity e-sports team at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln competes with other Division 1 universities across the United States. Learn about this exciting new, popular sport at UNL.

Entrepreneurial Lawyering at Nebraska Law - Instructor: Brett Stohs (1 session)

At the Nebraska College of Law, nine clinical programs offer third-year law students the opportunity to represent clients before they graduate and become lawyers. Supervised by licensed attorney professors, students provide valuable legal services to clients without means to hire a private attorney. Brett Stohs started the Weibling Entrepreneurship Clinic in 2013 and has served over 500 startups, small businesses, and nonprofits. He shares his pedagogy and passion, providing a sampling of valuable experiential programs.

Child and Youth Advocacy in Out-of-Home Care - Dawn Rockey & Monika Gross (1 session)

Learn about CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for abused or neglected, truant and ungovernable children and youth in the juvenile court system and about the Foster Care Review Office (FCRO) for Nebraska. FCRO volunteers oversee the safety, permanence, and well-being of children in out-of-home care. CASA volunteers advocate for the best interests of children in the court room and become a stable adult giving the child a fighting chance to gain a voice, achieve safety and stability and develop a sense of self-worth.

Contemporary Otoe-Missouria Lives Resilience – Christina Goodson (4 sessions)

This course focuses on contemporary Otoe-Missouria history post-removal to Indian Territory (1881-present), the survivance of Otoe-Missouria people and ways of life, and language revitalization and reclamation among the Otoe-Missouria and other Nebraska tribes. The course covers major U.S. Indian Policy such as the Dawes Act, Allotments, Termination, Indian Claims Commission, and Relocation.

Know Your Rights in Long-Term Care – Tami Barrett (1 session)

At some point, we or our loved ones may need long-term care. This course offers guidance from the Nebraska Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, which advocates for the rights of residents in assisted living and skilled care facilities. Learn about state and federal laws that protect those rights, explore real-life scenarios, and gain tools to ensure quality care. Also learn how to connect with local resources and explore volunteer opportunities through the ombudsman program.

Learn the lifesaving skills of Adult Hands-Only CPR, Child CPR, Infant CPR and AED use, as well as mild and severe airway block for adults, children and infants. Skills are taught in a dynamic group environment using the American Heart Association’s research-proven practice, while watching technique. Also learn the use of life-saving tourniquets in controlling serious extremity hemorrhage. This course is information only and does not lead to re-certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.  

Learn self-defense tactics tailored specifically for seniors and led by experienced instructors who understand the unique challenges seniors may encounter. Explore essential self-defense techniques like strikes, kicks, escapes, and defenses against common attacks, while also focusing on building confidence and situational awareness. Prepare yourself to feel safer and more empowered in any situation. Please wear loose clothing.

Enjoy a spring nature walk and look for migrating birds, spring flowers and other sights while taking a slow walk around the Nature Center. Dress for the weather and bring binoculars and/or cameras. Some binoculars are available to borrow upon request.

Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese martial art, is the world’s most widely practiced exercise form. Unlike most other exercises, Tai Chi is a life-long learning experience. Build fundamental skills comprising a ‘solo exercise’ that is the foundation for daily self-practice. Experienced participants can refine familiar movements and learn new ones. All levels of ability and Tai Chi experience are welcome. Wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes.

Learn how modern heart care, from new ways to spot and treat artery disease and cholesterol problems, to personalized approaches for people born with heart defects. Explore how to recognize and respond to cardiac arrest, how genes can influence heart health, and how today’s treatments fix irregular heartbeats. Discover how doctors now detect “hidden” chest pain conditions like ANOCA which do not show up on standard heart tests.

Review the course syllabus for details on each week’s topics: https://go.unl.edu/7kra

Learn how modern heart care, from new ways to spot and treat artery disease and cholesterol problems, to personalized approaches for people born with heart defects. Explore how to recognize and respond to cardiac arrest, how genes can influence heart health, and how today’s treatments fix irregular heartbeats. Discover how doctors now detect “hidden” chest pain conditions like ANOCA which do not show up on standard heart tests.

Review the course syllabus for details on each week’s topics: https://go.unl.edu/7kra

Hiking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and exercise, and there are many hiking trails in eastern Nebraska. Hiking can be a walk on a gravel path or a strenuous climb, whatever suits your interests and abilities. Learn the basics of hiking safety, etiquette, and tech, and see gear the instructors use. Learn how easy it is to get started hiking, including how to find great places to hike in Nebraska and beyond.

Hiking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and exercise, and there are many hiking trails in eastern Nebraska. Hiking can be a walk on a gravel path or a strenuous climb, whatever suits your interests and abilities. Learn the basics of hiking safety, etiquette, and tech, and see gear the instructors use. Learn how easy it is to get started hiking, including how to find great places to hike in Nebraska and beyond.

Explore the science, modern treatments, and holistic support systems part of the journey through cancer. This course, tailored for OLLI, includes a tour of the state-of-the-art April Sampson Cancer Center. Meet oncologists, researchers, and health professionals to learn about innovative therapies, precision medicine, and the role of technology in cancer diagnosis and treatment. View advanced medical equipment, experience the healing arts, and see how the center supports Nebraska’s cancer patients with compassion and innovation.

Hearing and balance are essential to communication, safety, and well-being, yet many adults lack a clear understanding of how these systems function. Receive an accessible overview of the auditory and vestibular systems, common hearing and balance disorders, risk factors, prevention, and treatment options. Explore current technologies, resources, and practical strategies that support better hearing, balance, and informed decision-making for individuals and families.

Review the course syllabus for details on each week’s topics: https://go.unl.edu/4hm3

Hearing and balance are essential to communication, safety, and well-being, yet many adults lack a clear understanding of how these systems function. Receive an accessible overview of the auditory and vestibular systems, common hearing and balance disorders, risk factors, prevention, and treatment options. Explore current technologies, resources, and practical strategies that support better hearing, balance, and informed decision-making for individuals and families.

Review the course syllabus for details on each week’s topics: https://go.unl.edu/4hm3

Explore the connection between modern livestock practices, animal health, and the safety and quality of the food we consume. From the farm to the table, livestock management practices influence not only animal well-being but also the nutritional value, safety, and sustainability of our food supply. Drawing on expertise in animal science, veterinary medicine, nutrition, and food safety, gain a deeper understanding of how research and production practices shape what ends up on our plates.

Review the course syllabus for details on each week’s topics: https://go.unl.edu/wdyi

Explore the connection between modern livestock practices, animal health, and the safety and quality of the food we consume. From the farm to the table, livestock management practices influence not only animal well-being but also the nutritional value, safety, and sustainability of our food supply. Drawing on expertise in animal science, veterinary medicine, nutrition, and food safety, gain a deeper understanding of how research and production practices shape what ends up on our plates.

Review the course syllabus for details on each week’s topics: https://go.unl.edu/wdyi