Complementary Health and Integrative Physiology Center

The Complementary and Integrative Physiology Center at the University of Northern Colorado explores how exercise and integrative therapies influence health, performance, and the immune system. Through clinical trials and exploratory studies, we investigate the effectiveness of innovative approaches such as cannabis and cannabidiol, breathwork, high-intensity training, supplement use, and cold-water immersion. Our mission is to provide evidence-based knowledge on accessible strategies that enhance physical and mental well-being.

Centers & Institutes

Mission

To support translational interdisciplinary inquiry in the area of complementary and integrative physiology, ranging from whole body studies to the exploration of molecular mechanisms. 

CHIPC Objectives:

  • Advance translational complementary and integrative physiology research 
  • Provide an avenue for UNC external partners to use UNC research to support innovations  
  • Translate and help explain complementary and integrative physiology research to the public and the scientific community    
  • Support graduate and undergraduate student clinical trials and lab-based learning.     

Get Involved With CHIPC

SES 424, Complementary and Integrative Health, is offered every Fall. This evidence-based course explores the mind, body, and spirit, energetics, manual healing, yoga, global ethnomedical systems, and related topics. Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors are eligible.  

CHIPC offers research laboratory and clinically based research experiences. Please contact one of our board members to set up an undergraduate or graduate research opportunity. You can volunteer, or you can earn elective credits!  

Labs at CHIPC

CHIPC Wellness and Performance Lab

This space is located in Gunter Hall and includes a scale, stadiometer, a bod pod, a computer with nutritional analysis software and a woodway treadmill.  

student receiving a biometrics reading within bodpod

CHIPC Cold Water Immersion Lab

This space is located in Gunter Hall and includes 2 environmentally controlled spaces, one for pre cold water immersion prep and another containing a 2 person temperature controlled immersion tub.  

The exterior of Gunter Hall.

UNC Inflammation Lab

This research lab is located in Ross Hall. It houses equipment for studying immune cell biology at a BSL 2 level. Cell culturing, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry, cell sorting, and various equipment for DNA/RNA and protein analysis are available. 

Student looking through microscope in lab

BEaR Lab – Biomechanics Education and Research Laboratory

This lab is located in Gunter Hall and boasts a 10-camera motion capture system complete with embedded force plates, EMG, and metabolic carts.  

Female athlete running tests on treadmill with sensors attached for measurements

Our Team (Missing Nick Pullen)

Laura Stewart

Professor & Director of Complementary Health and Integrative Physiology Center (CHIPC) & KiND Graduate Coordinator