Wellness is essential for success at work, in school or any endeavor, not only to prevent sickness, but also to enjoy adequate energy and a healthy mind. The University showed commitment to health yesterday, in hosting the Lifestyle & Wellness Expo. Employees and students alike could learn about various fitness and health opportunities.
The expo, which took place in the Waves Cafe, attracted a large crowd of employees, professors and students. The tables were home to big-name companies and organizations, as well as some local businesses and practices.
This was the 10th annual wellness exposition, which is put on by the Pepperdine Human Resources Department.
“Pepperdine makes wellness a priority because it is the right thing to do,” said Angie Pedersen, Wellness Program specialist. “We have built high-quality programs, including this health and lifestyle expo into our wellness programming.”
Kaiser Permanente, Costco and 5-hour ENERGY were all present, offering information, samples and discounted deals to interested attendees. The American Diabetic Association also had a stand and was there to inform the community about the causes and dangers of Type 2 diabetes. There were also tables hosting massage therapists, life insurance agents and dentists.
“We want to give our employees an opportunity to speak with benefit vendors face-to-face and at the same time expose them to other health-related services and topics,” Pedersen said.
The event also had a strong local presence. The Biggest Loser Resort, located in Malibu, held a raffle for one free week, being advertised by their first season trainer Bob Harper.
Many representatives from holistic centers in Malibu also tabled at the exposition. Malibu Healing Center’s Mana, a transpersonal hypnotherapist, offered intuitive energy healing as a spiritual life mentor. The Center also had a table presenting the other wellness opportunities they provide, from massages and pilates, to emotional acupuncture.
Lauren Freiman of Malibu Acupuncture and Herbs offered samples of one of her tea mixtures.
Pepperdine’s involvement with the Malibu community was highlighted by some of the appearances at the exposition.
The 5 Point Yoga studio, who is located in the Malibu Country Mart, was offering special discounts to Pepperdine students. An instructor from the studio also holds at class at the University every Sunday.
Meals on Wheels also had a table at the event. Richard Cupp, the John W. Wade professor at the School of Law, has served on the board of directors of the non-profit since 2009. The organization’s Malibu chapter also gets their meals from Pepperdine and Sodexo, according to the representative. They wished to show their appreciation for the support the University has offered them.
Human Resources also added a new component to the Lifestyle & Wellness Expo this year.
“We offered free biometric screenings to any faculty or staff member. The screenings included total cholesterol, glucose, BMI, height and weight ratio, and blood pressure,” Pedersen said.
Mental, physical and spiritual health specialists were all present. The Lifestyle & Wellness Expo offered all members of Pepperdine the chance to explore the many opportunities that Malibu and Southern California have to offer.
