Education, discussions available for health and wellness

January 31, 2011

WorkLife Programs has offerings dealing with all aspects of health, on topics varying from sleep to chocolate.
  
First-time offerings are indicated with an asterisk.
  
-- A Good Night's Sleep
Wednesday (Feb. 2). 12:10-12:50 p.m. Stewart Center, Room 320.
What's counting sheep got to do with the eight hours of sleep you've always heard you need? This course will teach participants about the stages of sleep, how it works, and what it does for the body. Most importantly, get tips to improve the quality of your sleep.

-- Chronic Disease Self Management Program*
Thursdays, Feb. 3-March 10. 3:30-5:30 p.m. WorkLife Programs office, Purdue West Shopping Plaza, 1402 W. State St.
Chronic disease can disrupt the routine of life and have an effect on emotions. WorkLife Programs will partner with Area IV Agency to offer a highly participative and supportive program for anyone with chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, pulmonary disease, fibromyalgia, or any other chronic condition. Participants will meet for six weeks, using two-hour sessions each week to help fortify their self-management skills. Topics include techniques to deal with problems such as frustration, fatigue, pain and isolation; appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility and endurance; appropriate use of medications; communicating effectively with family, friends, and health professionals; nutrition; and how to evaluate new treatments. Each participant will receive a copy of a workbook along with a relaxation CD.

-- Preventive Dentistry*
Feb. 9. 12:10-12:50 p.m. Stewart Center, Room 313.
Regular dental care is important, not only for appearance, but also for general health. Poor oral hygiene has been linked to dental and medical problems including gum disease, infection, bone loss, heart disease, strokes and more. Lafayette dentist Michael Laszynski will help participants prevent these problems and answer their questions on topics ranging from sensitive teeth to cosmetic dentistry. The class will kick off with 30 minutes of education and end with small group discussions so participants can brainstorm on the most feasible ways to fit these solutions into their lives.

-- Chocolate: The New Food Group?
Feb. 14. 12:10-12:50 p.m. Stewart Center, Room 322.
We have all heard and desperately want to believe the rumor that chocolate is good for us. But what's the truth? Learn about the history of chocolate and how it has earned a reputation as a health food. Get the lowdown on what kind (and amount) people really should be eating.

-- Positive Attitude Affects Health
Feb. 16.12:10-12:50 p.m. Stewart Center, Room 318.
Is your glass half full? Mental attitude has an incredible influence on physical health. Participants will engage in a lively discussion on being more conscious of their outlook on life and the influence it has on their bodies. Participants will receive tips on how to improve their outlook and be challenged to restructure their perspective. The class will feature 30 minutes of instruction, followed by small group discussions designed to let participants trade tips on how to best implement this type of thinking into everyday life.

To register for these or other offerings, go to www.purdue.edu/worklife and log in with your career account and password, or call WorkLife Programs at 49-45461.
  
Follow WorkLife Programs on Twitter at www.twitter.com/PurdueWorkLife