The Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute offers a holistic approach to wellness, blending culinary arts, mindfulness, and tai chi. Jessica VanRoo, the executive chef, guides students in creating nutritious meals like chimichurri during engaging cooking classes that feel more like friendly gatherings. Dr. Shaista Malik underscores the institute’s mission to nourish the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
Mindfulness programs led by Jessica Drew De Paz focus on relieving stress and fostering connection among participants. Through the evidence-based eight-week stress reduction course, individuals learn to live in the moment, aiding emotional health and heart wellness. Drew De Paz emphasises the importance of community, noting how shared experiences draw people together in a comforting space.
Chris Warmbold, a participant dealing with high blood sugar, describes how dietary changes and classes enabled him to manage his health better. He highlights the essential understanding of nutrition, noting that learning to cook healthy, delicious meals was crucial for him. VanRoo aims to empower others by showing the benefits of cooking fresh, wholesome food instead of reaching for processed alternatives.
Shin Lin, a tai chi expert at the institute, teaches this ancient practice to improve mental and physical health. His lessons focus on breathing techniques and stress reduction, paralleling tai chi’s characteristics to that of pizza—always enjoyable, whether made perfectly or not. This gentle exercise has been proven to enhance balance, concentration, and overall well-being.
Wellness classes not only provide tangible health benefits but also foster a sense of community through cooking and shared experiences. Participants receive practical advice on food storage, preparation, and adapting to dietary needs. VanRoo expresses her passion for teaching the importance of healthy eating, drawing on the rich culinary diversity available in Orange County, which enhances the learning experience for everyone involved.
For more information on programs and support at UC Irvine, visit the Brilliant Future website. The initiative aims to connect alumni and secure funding to enhance student health, wellness, and research, with the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute playing a key role. Check out various classes, including nutrition ($70 each), tai chi ($96 for eight weeks), and mindfulness courses ($475 for eight sessions). Sign up at ssihi.uci.edu under community programs.
At the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute, various wellness classes merge cooking, mindfulness, and tai chi. Jessica VanRoo teaches participants to prepare healthy meals like chimichurri, while Jessica Drew De Paz leads mindfulness programs to reduce stress. Participants benefit from practical nutrition advice and the restorative nature of tai chi, all contributing to a stronger sense of community and holistic health.
The Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute offers diverse classes integrating culinary arts, mindfulness, and tai chi, promoting holistic wellness. Participants leave equipped with knowledge to manage their health, foster connections, and embrace mindful living. These enriching experiences not only provide educational value but also create a supportive community—reinforcing the idea that wellness is a journey best taken together.
Original Source: news.uci.edu
