The Student Wellness Department promoted student well-being by holding various health-related events as part of St. John’s University Wellness Week 2009. Wellness Week lasted from Monday, Sept. 21 to Saturday, Sept. 26.

Marilena Minucci, assistant director of Wellness Education, said she thought the Wellness Fair was a success.

“We had more students and attendants than ever before,” she said. “Everyone loved everything they saw and learned at the fair. Whether it was yoga, fitness, or mindfulness meditation, students were all involved. There was something for everyone.”

The events kicked off with “Monday Mile,” during which participants walked a mile around campus. Other events included a yoga class on the Great Lawn, a farmer’s market with fruits and vegetables provided by a farm on Long Island,

“Cardio Challenge” in the fitness center, and University Service Day, designed to serve the community in accordance with the University’s Vincentian mission.

On Tuesday, Sept. 22, there was a Wellness Week Fair on the Great Lawn, featuring free smoothies, food, backrubs and information on staying healthy.

The Student Wellness Department at St. John’s approached physical and mental health with programs targeting body, mind, and spirit. It holds events throughout the semester.

According to Minucci, Wellness Week was only the first of many events to be held during the year..

“This week was a kickoff for different wellness programs throughout the year, so that every month you’ll see different events from us,” she said.

Many St. John’s students took advantage of the programs held on campus.

Freshman Brianna Lyons, for example, said that she thought the programs were good for “people who are into their own health.”

“It’s going to help everyone on campus get healthy and stay in shape,” she said. “Maybe now I can avoid the ‘Freshman 15,'” she said.

Freshman Kristine Torres, who attended the Wellness Week Fair, said she enjoyed her experience.

“It was really fun and relaxing,” she said. “It gave me a chance to just come out and relax.”

Though Wellness week came to an end, the Student Wellness Department will sponsor more events throughout the year.

“Our plans are to make wellness events bigger and have more students involved and to expand the programs we have to offer,” Minucci said.