College is a time of great change in most students lives. From moving, making new friends and adjusting to a different lifestyle, it is needless to say that it can all be overwhelming.
It is essential that during this time students remember to take care of their physical and mental health, making sure they take time for themselves to keep their overall wellbeing in check and balanced. This means maintaining a healthy lifestyle is an essential component for a successful college career. Engaging in physical activity, eating a balanced diet and getting the recommended amount of sleep all affect the college experience and most noticeably, student stress levels. There is no way to completely avoid college stress, however simple health tricks can help students manage stress levels and overall success.
One of the best ways to learn about all of the recourses available on campus and in the community is at the annual Health and Rec Fair.
Pearl Brown | Courtesy
The Health and Rec Fair is designed to be a “one-stop shop” where students and the campus community can learn about overall health, wellness and recreation recourses available. The fair is free and very interactive. It will showcase various ways to help improve students wellbeing from many aspects of health. Free health screenings for blood pressure, mental health, HIV and eyesight give students personalized feedback and an opportunity to chat with a professional in their respective field.
This year’s theme is “Get Your Wellness in Gear” and will feature over 50 vendors including a bike repair workshop, CPR demonstration, smoothie bike, five-minuet fitness test and more. Numerous prizes, free chili, snacks, and education opportunities are available at the event, including a mountain bike grand prize donated by ASUI.
All students have to do to enter the raffle is complete the “passports” given to them upon arrival by visiting various booths at the fair. Students are also invited to de-stress with complimentary chair massages, free climbing at the Climbing Center and free Wellness Program classes during the fair. Free flu and meningococcal are also available to U of I students with their VandalCard. Meningococcal vaccines are available first come, first served.
On top of all the awesome education recourses and screenings, students will have the opportunity to receive a free flu shot from 12-4 p.m. provided by Vandal Health Education. All students have to bring to get a flu shot is their VandalCard.
This year’s fair is Wednesday, Oct. 17 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Student Rec Center. Additional information about the Health and Rec fair is available at www.uidaho.edu/health-rec-fair — there you can find the full list of vendors and sponsors. This event is made possible by SRC staff, volunteers, and countless campus and community partners.
So make sure to stop by the Health and Rec Fair to learn more about how to manage your health and wellness at UI, and to take advantage of the free de-stress activities, flu shots, food and a bike grand prize.
Pearl Brown can be reach at [email protected]