About 175 “Relax Packs” were distributed to students preparing for finals on Monday in Homer Babbidge Library. Among the items students were able to choose for their packs were tiny pillows scented with peppermint oil intended to wake them up and help them focus, finger puppets, hard candy, bubble wrap, pennies (for good luck), tea, and chocolate. The pillows were the most popular item, and stress balls were all gone in 15 minutes.
The University’s Wellness and Prevention’s Health Education Office joined with the Library to offer the packets. Handouts containing resources for stress management were also available.
In addition to the relax packs, for the third year, the Library also brought therapy dogs to the library to help students “Paws to Relax.”
The Health Education Office has offered stress management for the past 10 years. In addition to tabling on campus to reach students, the office provides a Stress Down Day each semester; evening programs including breathing or massage techniques paired with either aromatherapy oils or herbal pillows; free downloadable MP3 players on their website; laughter circles; and a Relaxation Station in the Health Education Office located in South Campus, which includes shiatsu massagers and massaging back rests. For more information, contact the Health Education Coordinator, Joleen Nevers at 860-486-0772 or visit www.healthed.uconn.edu.
