Take care of yourself, even when your course co-ordinator won’t.
Wiki Whai Hauora is an exciting wellness program that offers students a much-needed break from their studies and encourages them to take care of their physical and mental health. However, no, your lecturer will not give you an extension because Craccum said so. We’ll work on that for you. The programme is billed as a great opportunity for students to relax, socialise, and participate in a range of activities that promote well-being. In the past, students have dismissed these events as ineffective at addressing wider-ranging problems that contribute to health issues. But Wiki Whai Hauora is a week for relaxing, finding a coping mechanism that does not involve alcohol, and hanging out with animals, so we may as well enjoy it while it lasts.
This year’s program runs from May 15th to May 19th and coincides with Pink Shirt Day, a day of action against bullying. The week-long event offers a variety of activities that cater to different interests and needs. For those who enjoy crafting, there is a DIY tie-dye session where students can put together their own unique creations. The Market Place hosted at the Quad on the City Campus will feature a range of stalls selling various items, including handmade jewellery, skincare products, and some tasty treats. The Glow Flow activity, a yoga session with neon lights, is perfect for those who need to break their dependence on subway surfers and want to unwind like a yummy mummy. Students can also participate in the Dogs on Campus activity, where therapy dogs visit the campus to provide comfort and stress relief. Craccum has independently verified that you will be able to pat the dogs.
For those who prefer to stay active, the Sport and Rec Centre is offering free access to their gym facilities and classes all week long. Students in halls who are currently failing their Uni fitness goals should take this as their opportunity to go one last time for the semester. You can take part in fitness classes such as Twerkfit or attend a Breathwork workshop to learn relaxation techniques. As you breathe in the mould in our older classrooms, at least you’ll be calm. The Intro to Deadlift and Squatting workshop is perfect for those struggling to carry the weight of their course load.
The program also offers free food and giveaways throughout the week, making it a great opportunity for students to enjoy healthy meals and snacks. Who said there was no such thing as a free lunch? May as well make the most of the $1000 paid by each of us in student levy each year.
Participating in Wiki Whai Hauora can have a positive impact on your physical and mental health. Research shows that taking a break from studies and participating in activities that promote well-being can reduce stress, improve mood, and increase overall health. Even the no-nonsense medical and law students will be able to get something out of it. It is an excellent opportunity for students to prioritise their health and learn more about how to care for themselves throughout the year. Sometimes the University won’t give you a concession, will call you out for something you have not done, or just peeve you somehow, and this is the week to learn what to do in the short term.
To learn more about the program and the various activities available, students can visit the event page or check out the Be Well web pages for more tips on how to maintain good health throughout the year. And when the week is out, as a collective, we can return to the undercurrent of resentment for one decision or another. But for now, we can be lost in the bliss of dogs and pancakes.
