The College of Health Sciences and Human Services (CHSHS) and the College of Science collaboratively put on a festival celebrating self-love this Valentine’s Day weekend in the Main Quad. The event’s theme was “Love is a Healthy Heart,” and featured tables from a few different clubs and organizations on campus.
Harald Barkhoff, the dean of the CHSHS, spoke on the scientific backing for the activities provided. “Emotional, spiritual and physical health. Love has a big impact [on all these things].”
The Otter Dance Team encouraged students to get their bodies moving for a good cause with a TikTok challenge. For every student who participated in the group dance, the team added $2 to their donation for the Monterey County Rape Crisis Center.
The American Medical Association offered adult coloring pages and markers, providing a calming break in the day to relax.
Sara Powell hosted a table called Exercise is Medicine, where she spoke on upcoming hikes, yoga instruction and how important physical exercise is for mental health.
Annabelle McCarthy is the president of Strategies for Ecology Education Diversity and Sustainability (SEEDS). She was joined with the SEEDS treasurer, Isaiah Woodard. Their table focused on the importance of knowing what’s in the natural world around you.
SEEDS offers trail guides and identification material. They meet every Sunday at 1 p.m. for Step and Prep. Professor Jenny Duggan will be in attendance to answer any questions about graduate programs, science careers, or the outdoors.
Disc golf was also tabling to talk about their club. Now that the weather is warmer, it is the perfect time to take advantage of the disc golf courts located throughout main campus. The club meets every Sunday, but a course is also available if looking for extracurricular credit.
These clubs are always welcoming and accepting of new members, so get outside, get involved, and be kind to yourself this Valentine’s day.