Wellness in the Encinitas School District
Teachers in the Encinitas School District may be the luckiest bunch of educators out there. The Encinitas School District has decided to keep yoga classes for its students, and yoga brings with it calmer students. A New York University study showed that students who participate in yoga classes are much more likely to have a calm demeanor. And as if that wasn't enough good news the study also shows an increase in both motor and social skills. This study was recently completely, and the Encinitas School District is capitalizing on the results.
The students will not only be benefiting from the yoga classes, but they will also be learning about healthier choices with the wellness program that was put into place. The school will be growing its own vegetables on site, and using them in the cafeteria. The Massage School of San Diego (MSSD) is thrilled to hear that the Encinitas School District is holding yoga classes and promoting wellness, and can't stop singing their praises: "In a world where obesity and unhealthy choices are too often the norm MSSD finds it refreshing that schools are turning to a more holistic approach to teach wellness. MSSD praises the Encinitas School District for staying the course with their students’ health education."
Not everyone unfortunately is on board with the plan, as 260 parents signed a petition asking to remove the yoga classes. The problem they stated was that yoga was teaching children elements of the Hindu religion. However, the people in favor far out number those opposed. A total of 2,700 people signed a petition for the yoga classes. Hopefully with this support the Encinitas School District can start a trend of health and wellness for students. Promoting yoga, vegetables, and over all healthy choices will be setting these children up for success for years to come. The MSSD weighed in again on this issue saying, "MSSD recognizes the benefits of integrating holistic education into schools. They see overall wellness as an integral part of every child’s education. Children need to be taught how to control and take care of themselves mentally, emotionally and physically."
With all the benefits of the wellness program we can only hope that Encinitas is the domino that starts a chain reaction for other school districts in California. By showing children healthier options, and teaching them how to use the healthier options we are building a stronger generation. Childhood obesity is a very real issue, and putting programs like this into practice are a fantastic way to win the battle against childhood obesity.
Article: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/2/prweb10391496.htm