ST Joseph’s Primary School Denman continued the tradition of Wellness Week this term – and everyone benefitted from the experience.
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Principal Aaron Moon said research indicated that Week seven and eight [of each term] was the period where many students and staff were sick and run down.
“Wellness Week is a time for us to discuss mental wellbeing and to promote the importance of looking after our minds as well as our bodies,” he explained.
“As adults it is important for us to model to children ways of nurturing our mental health.”
As part of Wellness Week, students complete no homework, other than home reading, while staff don’t have any meetings rostered.
“Families can slow down and use the time to interact more and participate in relaxing and enjoyable activities,” Mr Moon said.
“In fact, they are encouraged to get outside and play a game or go for a walk to the park.
“It’s a time where we can also clear our minds from the busyness of life and enjoy the act of simply being present in the moment with our loved ones.
“It’s also a chance for staff to refresh and ‘get active’.”
Mr Moon said everyone played a role in the process.
“As part of Wellness Week at St Joseph’s Denman this term, we have one of our parents sharing her knowledge of Energy Medicine with the teachers and students,” he said.
“They will be working with each class this week to teach a Daily Energy Routine.
“It was designed to bring about calmness and clarity of thought by using grounding and centering techniques.
“There are many more benefits from doing the exercises such as stress reduction, boosting the immunity, helping with concentration, improving coordination, confidence building, enhancing communication skills and restoring vitality.”
Meanwhile, religious education coordinator Michelle Lovegrove will also attend the Positive Education Schools Association (PESA) National Conference on Building Positive Communities in Sydney on Friday and Saturday.
“We are very grateful to the Where There’s a Will Foundation for supporting our school and teachers from the Upper Hunter to attend this conference,” Mr Moon said.