Health and Wellness Assoc. Helps

By Tom Freeland
Some students might not have heard of it, but the Student Health and Wellness Association is a very active group. They create programs on the college campus for cessation of smoking and responsible use of alcohol. Their mission is “to provide effective education that will motivate students to maintain or adopt behaviors to improve health, prevent disease, and assist in achieving their academic goals.” The faction promotes fitness and encourages wellness, too. Health is more than preventing illness; it includes physical, mental, spiritual, emotional, and social well-being.

Many new projects are coming in the future for the SHWA. There will be a walking program commencing on Feb. 6. Walking is a great way to get into shape. Furthermore, it has been proven to relieve stress on the body.

Walking requires deep breathing which, in turn, helps your cardiovascular system.

Cardiovascular diseases are the number one killer of women in West Virginia.

The statewide Cardiovasular Awareness Day is observed on Feb. 14. Everyone is encouraged to wear red to support the effort. Students can find more information about this special day at www. americanheart.org. If students are interested in joining the SHWA, please see Charlene McNulty, the school nurse in the Health and Wellness Center, located near the records office.

Nurse McNulty said, “We need students to become involved in the SHWA so we can plan more educational and wellness activities for the campus community.”