A new club is coming to Brock University, centering around all things wellness.
The Brock Wellness Society is gearing up for its first year, ready to bring events such as Pilates classes, walks, coffee dates, study groups and more to students looking for opportunities to meet like-minded people and prioritize their physical health.
Founded by Brock student Olivia Leite, the club provides students with an outlet to take a break from the academic and social pressures of university.
In an interview with The Brock Press, Leite stated that the club “prioritizes physical and mental well-being,” with its events designed for students to get movement in while they step away from their busy schedules.
“Our events are very targeted around physical well-being; that also translates to mental well-being, and I think that’s very important,” said Leite.
While the club’s activities are focused on the physical body, members hope to improve students’ overall wellness.
Joining the Brock Wellness Society lets students set aside time to be active and social, while alleviating the burden of planning these classes off their shoulders. “I wanted to make a resource for girls who were struggling with [physical wellness],” stated Leite.
“Having this resource where you can get out of your comfort zone and prioritize your physical well-being or mental well-being and not be overwhelmed with your school life or party life,” Leite continued. “Set it aside for a second and focus on this.”
Along with physical activities, building a community is an important part of Brock Wellness Society. The club intends for members to go beyond the organized events and create bonds that nurture member well-being.
Around 300 students applied to be involved with the society and were added to a group chat where they could connect with other members and receive information before events were opened to the general public.
For non-members, the club’s Instagram page is where public events and news will be posted.
“There are 500 girls trying to get into each event,” Leite stated, adding that members have been active in communicating with one another.
While the society is geared towards being a community for girls, its public events are open to anyone at Brock. The society is also open to students outside Brock University, with students from Niagara College among its members.
The Brock Wellness Society has already held a nature walk, with more events planned for the fall semester. A Pilates event is taking place on Oct. 26, followed by a yoga class on Oct. 4. For students who love a strength workout, there is a coming strength class taking place at a local gym. To register for any events, visit The Brock Wellness Instagram page.
For Leite, the goal is to create a space where students feel comfortable connecting with others while making their well-being a priority.
“I don’t think there is a club this big where girls feel comfortable to communicate with each other or meet up in person,” Leite stated.
As the Brock Wellness Society begins its first year, Leite hopes the club can become a resource for students looking for a way to take a break from university life and focus on their physical and mental well-being.