Wellness Center initiative relieves stress

Students, faculty and staff were able to de-stress and rediscover their inner calm this year, thanks to a Wellness Center initiative this year that included midday Yoga and evening Tai Chi/Qi Gong.

“It’s fantastic for mind, body and spirit,” says Catherine Cooney, adjunct instructor. “It’s an enormous mood lifter and stabilizer. It’s very physical, but it’s also very relaxing. And it balances your energies. It helps you pull things together after a busy morning. It’s really important to do it at different times of day.”

Yoga sessions focusing on posture and breathing for stress relief were held during the lunch hour, and Tai Chi’s meditative exercises, stretching and balance offered as evening sessions.

“I have a somewhat high stress rate being an RA,” says Amanda Ruhland, a junior from New Berlin. “So I am loving this as a method of relaxation.”

Whether it’s the serene sounds of waterfalls, chimes or winds, or striking a sun pose, participants found a way to step away from their stresses and distractions and find an inner balance that helps in life, the workplace, and in classes.

“I take yoga in my town, but have been working when the classes are in session,” says Megan Gargas, a junior from Remsen. “So, having this available on campus has been truly wonderful. It’s a great stress reliever from classes.”

Health educator Stacey Genther says people often forget to take time for themselves. “That’s why we promoted and marketed this initiative as “Time for Me.” This is about wellness for the whole community.”