UMC program aims to create a more zen CU
After a long day of classes, trying to manage time between lectures, assignments, and friends, it’s no wonder college students are so stressed out. Luckily, the Student Wellness Program has a cure for all the repercussions of this relentless stress.
The Student Wellness Program is a resource that encourages healthy living habits. It is peer-educated and focuses on numerous issues including stress management.
“Stress management is the ability to deal with everyday situations without jeopardizing your health,” said Lisa Jung, stress management coordinator for the Student Wellness Program.
Jung, a sophomore integrative physiology major, helps with an event called The Haven.
The Student Wellness Program is designed to help a student struggling with stress. It is meant to relax and clear the mind. The program offers massages, aromatherapy, teas, and other relaxation methods to calm the stressful soul. The best part of all is it’s all free. The various activities are conducted by trained student volunteers.
“The Haven takes a multifaceted approach. It’s all about learning to take breaks and relax,” said Anne Reinhart, professional coordinator in charge of managing the student staff and the volunteers. “We react to what students tell us is messing up their academic performance. We try and help students succeed.”
The methods have proved to be effective among students.
“Yeah, I really think it works,” said Hannah Cunnane, a junior business major. “I came during finals last semester to do the aromatherapy. It was really helpful.”
The aromatherapy treatment allows a student to create a unique mixture of an assortment of scents.
“Various oils do different things,” Reinhart said. “The essential oils have an effect when you smell them depending on the oil. It could energize, calm, and even help concentrate.”
The program is regularly scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 p.m.to 4 p.m. in UMC 227. There is no appointment necessary. Stop by to calm the mind, soothe nerves, and relax the body.
“People come and when they leave they are always exclaiming how good they feel,” Reinhart said. “Even being there has a calming effect.”
Staff writer Dana Silva can be contacted at dana.silva@thecampuspress.com
