Once the crispness of fall and the pumpkin-spiciness of golden autumn colors start to dim in luster—so can our zest for life. Mornings are colder; days are shorter. The sun makes its appearance less known. Once Thanksgiving comes and goes we’re packing around that turkey and stuffing sandwich weight, and it all goes down the hill from there. By the time snow hits the ground, our motivation for healthy eating and exercise is nearly diminished.
Winter blues are no joke. Seasonal affective disorder can sap our enthusiasm and energy levels. How can we combat those winter doldrums? Resisting the seductive urge to crawl under the covers and watch Netflix until the Groundhog pops up in February with an update on the weather.
Despite the frosty, chilly, lack of pleasantries from Mother Nature –life, school, work and study still goes on. How do we make the most of these seasons? Throw on a sweater, grab a blanket and a cup of tea, and get back to living life.
The Wellness Centre has weekly offerings and a slew of upcoming special events.
Mindful Meditation, Tuesdays at 11:30am in OM2494
Why meditation? Why not! Meditation reduces stress, improves concentration, encourages a healthy lifestyle, slows aging, benefits cardiovascular and immune health-and increases happiness, acceptance and self-awareness.
Creative Mindfulness. Wednesdays at 12:40pm in OM2494
Feeling stuck on an assignment? Suffering from writer’s block? Too energetic for quiet mediation?
- Redirect your thoughts
- Avoid distractions
- Focus on and perform creative work
Therapy Dogs, Thursdays 10-2pm
“I have found that when you are deeply troubled, there are things you get from the silent devoted companionship of a dog that you can get from no other source” —Doris Day
Did you know that St John has Therapy Dogs at BMO Student Street every Thursday?
Stop by, say hello and take a quiet moment with a furry friend.
Time spent with dogs have all kinds of physical and mental health benefits!
- lowers blood pressure
- releases endorphins that have a calming effect
- produces an automatic relaxation response
- lifts spirits and lessens depression
- decreases feelings of isolation and alienation
- encourages communication
- provides comfort
- increases socialization
- reduces loneliness
- lowers anxiety
As for the day to day practices, it’s really quite simple. Student budgets and late night study sessions equal fast food frenzies and caffeinated stupors—but that doesn’t have to be the only choice! Hydration, sleep, fitness and fresh foods are key elements to long lasting health.
Take advantage of student discounts—and find exercise that you love. Physical fitness equals happiness and mental health.
Questions? Concerns? Pop by the Wellness Center and say hello to Meaghan or the Student Wellness Ambassador Team.
For more information about weekly offerings and events, check out the website. www.tru.ca/wellness
