The Davidsonian

Issue date: 1/23/08 Section: Arts & Living

Staying sound of mind, body and spirit can be difficult during stressful and exciting events; however, most people understand that being strong mentally, physically and spiritually is necessary to stay sane. And while this might seem a daunting task, there are many ways for a Davidson College student to maintain and enhance all three types of wellness.

One new organization aiming to promote positive body-image started only a few months ago. FLY (For Loving Yourself) is a division of Changing Minds, which works to promote mental health awareness and help those suffering from mental disorders.

Changing Minds also works to eliminate the stigmas often attached to mental illness. FLY will focus directly on eating disorders and issues relating to body image and self esteem.
In February, Changing Minds, along with FLY, will hold a "De-stress Fest," which will include free massages, yoga and tie-dye.
There will also be a lecture given by the new nutritionist as well as the new therapist, both of whom specialize in eating disorders. Alanna Ford, the head of FLY, wants to assure the student body that FLY is not a "therapy group." It is a gathering of people trying to induce social change. She adds that the Health Center is the place to go for therapy.

Changing Minds has even more plans for positive changes in campus attitudes. The group will conduct a survey of the Davidson College population to determine what types and how many mental disorders exist on campus. They are also planning to sponsor a "Great Davidson Activities Drop-Out," during which students will be encouraged to drop one of their activities to lighten their workloads.
The Davidson College Triathlon Club hopes to promote wellness through physical fitness. This club requires at least three practices per week to build up endurance for meets, which include a 500 yard swim, a 12 to 15 mile bike ride and a three-mile run. Nicole Keroak ' 08 and Cody Elder '08 are heading up the Triathlon Club, and Keroak stated that "almost everyone is new at it," so no one needs to worry about their skill level.

If you are seeking a practice that will help you achieve a harmonious balance of mental, physical and spiritual fitness, try yoga. Kelley Gardner has taught yoga on campus for 12 years. She teaches "Anusara" Yoga, which focuses on proper alignment, balance and healthy breathing to increase physical intelligence and the ability to cope with stress.

Classes are held once a week from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. and started Jan. 22. The rate is $9 per class, but Gardner does not want the cost to keep students from taking the class. You can contact her at yogasong@bellsouth.net.

If you are seeking a source of spiritual fulfillment, there are options. There are student organizations for a number of specific denominations, such as the Methodist Fellowship, Catholic Campus Ministry, Hillel, Westminster Fellowship (Presbyterian) and the Muslim Students Association. All of these groups welcome people of other faiths or those who are just curious. There are also nonsectarian groups, such as Sanctuary, Young Life, Interfaith Fellowship and Intervarsity Christian Fellowship.

For an accessible hour of worship and communion, try out Weekly College Worship. To see a complete listing of all the faith groups on campus, visit the "Student Life" section of the Davidson College website, click on "Religious Life," and then "Student Organizations."

For a list of opportunities for worship both on-and-off campus and in the town of Davidson, go to "Religious Life," click on "Chaplain's Office" and then "Worship Opportunities."
Finding your own way to stay healthy may take personal creativity. You may have to find the right combination of activities (or lack thereof) to maximize your happiness and productivity.

For some, going on a hike with Davidson Outdoors is the perfect escape from everyday life and a chance to make new friends. Others are excited to choreograph and perform in Dance Ensemble. Music-lovers may be encouraged by Musical Interludes in Tyler-Tallman Hall, and sports fans may get a high from dressing in red and black and gathering together to support the Cats.

Some are excited by mastering complicated instrumental music, and still others devote their free time to making other people laugh or making a difference in the community.
Remember, the moments when one is "unproductive" may actually be every bit as productive as moments of "efficiency." The effort to find one's ideal balance and state of mind is challenging, but it is completely worthwhile.

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