Wellness is more than being free of disease. It is multidimensional, and it is the basis for maximizing one's true potential. Good health plays a vital role in how successful students are in achieving their academic and personal goals while in college. For most students, there is a shift in health care responsibility. They are no longer living at home and must assume the responsibility of managing their health without parental involvement. Students must take an active role in assessing their state of wellness and make choices concerning their health.

At Iona College, our emphasis on health promotion and prevention of disease is predicated upon the assumption that lifestyle behaviors play a very important role in achieving and maintaining a state of wellness. Some lifestyle choices that the college student should consider are to:

• learn about nutrition and find an eating plan that is right for you;
• attain and maintain a reasonable and healthy body weight;
• not engage in unsafe sexual practices;
• utilize stress-management skills to keep stress levels low;
• engage in physical exercise regularly;
• not consume excessive amounts of alcohol or use other drugs;
• not stay in unhealthy or dangerous relationships;
• establish realistic, attainable goals for your weight, for exercise, for your grades, and for other aspects of your life;
• see a medical care provider when you have concerns about your health;
• be responsible about taking your medication and seeing your doctor on a regular basis if you have already been diagnosed with a physical or psychological disorder;
• take time for yourself every day to slow down and recharge your batteries;
• work towards finding a balance in your life that allows you to integrate academics, work, friends, family and personal time.

Your college years are extremely important in laying the foundation for the rest of your life. Students who learn how to make healthy choices during their college years are establishing a pattern for a lifestyle of wellness that can extend throughout their adult years.

Wellness Programs at Iona College:
The Office of Student Development offers a variety of wellness programs throughout the year. Some examples include:

• Yoga
• Body Sculpting
• Pilates
• Salsa dancing
• Irish step class
• Tap dance class

For a current listing of wellness programs, please call the Office of Student Development at 633-2360 or visit their website: www.iona.edu/studentlife/studentdevelopment/wellnessprograms/serviceofferings.cfm

On Campus Resources:
Health Services............ (914) 633-2548
Counseling Center....... (914) 633-2038