In keeping with the University’s call for the implementation of a campus-wide Wellness Program, the UP NISMED Healthy Lifestyle and Wellness Committee organized a half-day seminar-workshop on “Detoxifying our Lives: Mental Health and Stress Management.” This was held on 19 September 2018 at NISMED Auditorium, Science Teacher Training Center, UP NISMED. A total of 55 NISMED staff attended the seminar-workshop.
Mr. Rolando C. de los Reyes II, a Guidance Services Specialist at the University of the Philippines – Office of Counselling and Guidance, served as the resource person. The workshop focused on how to deal and manage stress by identifying its sources, making time for fun and relaxation, spending quality time with one’s family and friends, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Mr. de los Reyes encouraged the participants to practice the 4As of stress management: avoid unnecessary stress; alter the situation; adapt to the stressor; and accept the things that people cannot change.
Mr. de los Reyes also shared the ABCs of wellness: Awareness – knowing what makes one happy, sad, angry, and afraid; Boundaries – knowing what are life-giving and what are draining for oneself; and Compassion – knowing how to take care of oneself. He also pointed out that journaling about one’s stress was important because it helps in identifying life stressors and the ways of dealing with them.
The UP NISMED Healthy Lifestyle and Wellness Committee also leads NISMED staff in zumba and walking exercises every Tuesdays and Fridays. The committee is composed of Mr. John Alex M. Reyroso (as chair), Ms. Ivy P. Mejia, Ramon Sanchez, Cherry A. Velasco, Aaron Jay M. Lagrimas, Willie A. Dineros, Rose Kathlyn G. Sinamban, Alberto A. Lopez and Joseph M. Galdiano.
