Celebrating World Leisure Wellness Day at UWC: A Day of Fun, Learning, and Well-being

On 2nd May 2023, the University of the Western Cape (UWC) celebrated World Leisure Wellness Day, an initiative of the World Leisure Organization (WLO) designed to highlight the importance of leisure in daily life. Organized by the Department of Sport, Recreation, and Exercise Science and BA (Hons) Sport Science (Community Health) students, this event brought together staff and students for enjoyable activities and insightful health-promoting presentations. The UWC Confucius Institute was also involved in the event, demonstrating and promoting Chinese Traditional Medicine with cupping and Tai Chi (Ba Duan Jin) to the staff and students.

The event occurred on the open grass between the Sports Administration building and the Student Centre, adjacent to the Netball courts. Departments, schools, and units from across the campus participated, with senior students and staff presenting health-promoting information and activities from their respective fields. Prof Rhoda provided the opening and welcome address, while Mr Gagayi spoke about the importance of sports participation on campus for wellness and showcased a cheerleading sequence.

The Department of Psychology offered a 10-minute talk on psychological well-being. The Department of Dietetics emphasized the significance of healthy eating for overall health in their "Live Well, Eat Well!" presentation. Meanwhile, Occupational Therapy students organized activities for persons with disabilities to promote inclusivity.

The UWC Confucius Institute played a crucial role in the event, demonstrating Chinese Traditional Medicine through cupping therapy and Tai Chi (Ba Duan Jin). Students and staff were introduced to these alternative therapies, which have been practised for thousands of years in China. They discovered the potential benefits they offer for physical and mental well-being.

The World Leisure Wellness Day celebration at UWC was a resounding success, showcasing the importance of leisure, well-being, and health promotion in a fun and engaging manner. The involvement of the UWC Confucius Institute provided a unique opportunity for attendees to learn about Chinese Traditional Medicine and its potential benefits. The event served as a valuable reminder of leisure's role in fostering a healthy, happy, and well-rounded life.