Spector then explained how she and the other Wellness Center workers would help a student who came in. Students who come in because of stress may take 15 minutes (or more, depending on the severity) inside the center, allowing themselves to relax. To do it, they can sit on the plushy couch or reclining chairs with fluffy pillows.
When students feel stressed but don’t want to talk, they are encouraged to use these iPads to help them through a mindfulness activity. It’s a method that’s been researched and proven to be effective in decreasing stress, decreasing anxiety, and decreasing symptoms of depression,” Spector said. She went on to detail why an emphasis is placed on the practice of mindfulness. “If a student is feeling stressed but doesn’t necessarily want to talk to someone, we can set them up with a mindfulness breathing exercise,” she said. Wellness Coordinator Elizabeth Spector explained why the iPads are utilized. It’s reinforcing that things aren’t permanent.” Photo: Sophia MuysĪlso featured in the center are iPads with mindfulness breathing guides loaded onto them. “The board reminds us about living in the moment. Spector explained why the Wellness Center decided to include it. A calming fountain is set up on a side table, accompanied by a “Buddha board”, where a student can draw a picture with water, and then see it slowly fade as the water dries.
“ We want to create a sense of normalcy and a sense of openness and inclusion for this center, so that if students are having a hard time, they feel that they can come here,” she said. Wellness Center outreach worker Angelina Michael outlined the meaning behind the inclusion of these items. A small fountain, self help books, kinetic sand, and coloring books line the walls and scatter coffee tables. When students walk into the Wellness Center, they are greeted with the smell of essential oils, comfortable chairs, and calming colors. Wellness Outreach Worker Angelina Micheal and Wellness Coordinator Elizabeth Spector will greet students arriving to the Wellness Center by setting them up with a calming activity such as playing with kinetic sand, or by providing the student somebody to talk to if they need help. The center has an open, calming layout, with plenty of natural light streaming through the windows.
OctoA technology free zone sign and array of relaxing books welcome incoming students.