He who has health has hope, and he who has hope has everything. - Arabian Proverb
Wellness is the harmony that exists between our physical body and emotional state of mind and encompasses numerous aspects of our daily life. Nutrition, exercise, adequate rest, and emotional happiness are vital building blocks for a healthy individual.
Words on Wellness is the Committee’s newsletter. The current issue was inspired by the great strides that have been made in nutrition at Burke’s via the new lunch program and builds on the Food Panel held by the Parent Education committee earlier this month. The newsletter includes general nutrition issues and specific information on water and exercise.
The Parents' Association Wellness Committee was established in 2010 to promote nutrition and wellness at Burke’s. Our areas of focus include nutrition and food awareness, physical activity, self-image, and character development. Working closely with faculty and administration, we hope to raise awareness of health and nutrition related issues, maximize the use of the Burke’s campus for health promotion, and make policy recommendations to promote wellness in the Burke’s community.
Enjoy and stay healthy! - Burke's Wellness Committee
We have all been in the situation where our kids get in the car after school and are starving, tired, and grumpy. The dash into the local café to buy sugar, additives and preservatives is a quick fix for children and parents that are worn down, stressed out, and wanting to please. Many parents find it incredibly difficult to change the eating habits of their children and there is no question that the process of eliminating refined sugars and processed food can be unpleasant, causing a serious backlash.
It can be overwhelming to navigate the volumes of data that we now have access to and to try to integrate this information in a practical way that is suited to the differing needs of each family. We hope to provide you with some important basics. It is never too late to educate and empower your children about how to take great care of their bodies.
So what can you do as a parent to be proactive in your child's health?
Use common sense, always be consistent, and return to the basic principles of eating fresh, minimally processed, local and organic produce whenever possible. As you learn about nutrition share your knowledge with your children, cook with them and try to eat breakfast and dinner together. Discuss what your children had at Burke’s for lunch, visit farmers markets, join a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) group and have food boxes delivered to your home regularly. Make food a fun and important part of your family’s life. Most importantly, be a good role model; if your kids see you eating Oreo cookies every night after dinner, they will naturally follow your lead.
Nutrition Know How
The next several issues of Words on Wellness will provide information on nutrition and tips on how to integrate healthy habits into your family’s routine. This month, we focus on the benefits of water and exercise, and share some ideas for healthy snacks.
STAY TUNED:
Our next Wellness newsletter will discuss the hot and important topic of sugar, and seasonal health tips and some fun recipes for the holiday season. In the meantime try something different; commit to local organic produce and join a CSA.