What does wellness mean to you? The term could have countless interpretations! To me, it is about being well physically, mentally, and emotionally. A well-balanced diet, routine activity, and happiness are all standard elements of wellness. How I define wellness differs through an additional component of mindfulness- making conscious efforts towards sustainability. Ultimately, I believe in a balanced diet and active lifestyle that enhances human health and supports environmental wealth. Preserving land and natural resources is essential to growing nutrient-dense food and high quality nutrition improves overall function and cognition; thus each element is vital to well-being.
When I first decided on the Wellness Concentration I wondered how to incorporate my idea of wellness. Now, nearing the end of the internship, I would say I have successfully integrated my interests throughout! A few highlights of my experiences thus far include:
Additional events planned for Wellness:
I look forward to completing the internship with my concentration in Wellness and the many ways wellness is integrated into dietetics!
When I first decided on the Wellness Concentration I wondered how to incorporate my idea of wellness. Now, nearing the end of the internship, I would say I have successfully integrated my interests throughout! A few highlights of my experiences thus far include:
- My retail and marketing project which focused on food waste in celebration of Earth Day. This was the first project that led me to research sustainable nutrition. I became familiar with food waste, sustainable food habits, resources, and how the Mediterranean Diet is a practical sustainable dietary pattern.
- Supporting organic farmers in my community through which I was able to plant tomatoes and asparagus, was introduced to new produce and edible flowers, experienced the process of hydroponic farming, and spent a day at an oyster farm to learn about sustainable fisheries. Through these rotations I witnessed where our food is sourced from and the labor requirements of farming. The hands-on work was rewarding, educational, and encouraged me to support farmers as much as possible in my career.
- Providing nutrition education to the public via social media regarding farmers markets. Bringing forth messages of seasonality and locally-sourced products encourages greater consumption of produce, builds connections between consumers and growers, and gives back to the farmers.
Additional events planned for Wellness:
- Health fair regarding end-of-the-season harvest and how to preserve food through canning and tips for proper storage
- Support a campus RD implement Massachusetts Farm-to-School’s Harvest of the Month program for the first time!
I look forward to completing the internship with my concentration in Wellness and the many ways wellness is integrated into dietetics!