NEWS EDITOR – ASHTON JEFFERS
ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON OCT 4, 2023
This semester when students are going to and from classes, to their extracurriculars, internships, and other priorities, it is important to take care of oneself, both physically and mentally. St. Mary’s University’s department of Student Health and Wellness Programs is a resource that students can utilize to support their wellbeing. These services can benefit students during their busy and active lives. Four of the offices within Student Health and Wellness Programs are located in the Center for Life Directions followed by the Student Health Center located in Charles Francis Hall. Student Health and Wellness Programs work to support students who are seeking methods of holistic wellness throughout their time at St. Mary’s.
Most recently, Wellness Programs hosted “Yoga on the Plaza” on Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023, which allowed students to participate in a yoga session. The session was taught by yoga instructor, Jonathan “Jody” Whiting, who runs the local nonprofit, Cornbread Yoga (CBY). During this early workout session, food, including cornbread, was given to participants who came out to this event. Not only was this opportunity able to provide students a space to engage in an activity that promotes physical and mental wellness, but introduced them to a community leader that promotes community engagement and wellness. If interested in CBY and seeing more of their work and events around the San Antonio area, follow them on their Instagram @cornbreadyoga.
Wellness Programs often work with other Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) on campus that assist in coordinating student involvement events on campus to promote holistic wellness. On Thursday, Oct. 5, 2023, Wellness Programs is having a kickoff event for the National College Health Assessment. The National College Health Assessment is a survey for students that asks questions related to student health and wellness needs and practices. Upon completing the survey, students are entered into a drawing for one of three prizes. If students complete the survey and attend the kickoff event, they will be entered into other giveaways where they may receive household essentials, gift cards, or a LEGO set. Student Government Association is sponsoring the prizes and food for the kickoff event.
Wellness Programs also sponsor initiatives such as It’s On Us and Peer Health Educators. St. Mary’s University’s chapter of It’s On Us is a student-led organization that focuses on supporting survivors and promoting sexual assault prevention on college campuses. Advised by the Wellness Coordinator, Elisa Garza, It’s On Us has a grassrootsnonprofit approach to advocating for sexual assault survivors on campus and educating their peers about sexual assault awareness on college campuses. It’s On Us hosts big events on campus such as Shatter the Red Zone and Take Back the Night. Other outreach events include Demin Day, which encourages people to wear denim in solidarity with sexual assault survivors and to promote education on sexual violence. It’s On Us is also looking for new members and those interested in a potential leadership position in the organization. Officers would be responsible for event planning, coordinating with members and other organizations, as well as being involved with possible fundraising opportunities. If interested in learning more about becoming involved with It’s On Us, reach out to Elisa Garza in the Center for Life Directions or message via email at egarza82@stmarytx.edu
If interested in seeing more eventsa full semester calendar can be accessed through the link in the @stmu_well Instagram page’s bio.