Midterms, quizzes, papers and projects. If that doesn’t stress you out, how about rent, car payments and credit card bills? Even making time to see your boyfriend or girlfriend, your friends, your family and your pet in between school and work can be a challenge.

As students, countless things put stress on your mind and body. It is your responsibility to maintain a healthy mind and body in order to achieve academic success and personal well being.

Students at Sacramento State have a unique opportunity to take advantage of classes and services designed to promote a healthy mind and body, right here on campus. Knowing how to use your resources as a student is the first step.

Therapeutic Massages at Student Health Center

The Student Health Center at Sac State now offers therapeutic massages for little or no cost. With the purchase of the augmented health plan for $20 per semester, students receive three free 15-minute massages. If you do not have the health plan, the massages are $12 for 15 minutes or $24 for 30 minutes.

Ben Sloane is one of the two certified massage therapists at the health center five days a week for four hours a day.

“I give kind of a therapeutic sports massage, really focusing on the deep tissue,” Sloane said. “The woman masseuse has a lighter touch.”

The massages aren’t just for people with a physical ailments or injury.

“About 80 percent of the people we see come in with problems related to stress,” Sloane said.

Massages at the health center go pretty fast — better make your appointment about two weeks ahead of time.

Appointments can be made by visiting the front desk at the health center or by calling (916) 278-6461.

Kinesiology classes in Tai Chi and Martial Arts

Tai Chi (Taijiquan) is an ancient Chinese art that is performed by slow deliberate moves. It is used for health reasons, balance, centering and relaxation. By practicing Tai Chi, you are moving Chi (Qi), or energy, throughout the body.

Professor Joan Neide teaches martial arts and Tai Chi here on campus.

“It is described as iron wrapped in cloth, because it is soft yet strong,” Neide said.

It is perfect for the stressed out students looking to refresh themselves and get credit for it. “It is a form of meditation that clears the mind and focuses on the body,” Neide said.

It is also a great physical workout as well.

“It is extremely good for your muscles — you will sweat,” Neide said. There are two different Tai Chi classes offered on campus. The first is Kins 118C. This is a three unit class that is part lecture and part activity. It counts for credit in GE area C4. Kins 118C is for the person who wants to explore a little deeper in to the history and practice of Tai Chi. The second class is Kins 36. This is a one-unit class that is strictly activity. Kins 36 counts for credit in GE area E. These classes are open to students of all majors, but hurry — they fill up quick.

Yoga and Meditation Club

Yes, that’s right, there is a club on campus that gives free yoga and meditation classes. No more paying $15 a class at private yoga studios. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day at school while still on campus.

The classes are open to all skill levels and you don’t have to be a club member or sign up anywhere to attend them — you just show up.

Club member Kate Milbrett has fun meeting new people and keeping her body and mind in shape at the same time.

“The purpose of yoga and meditation is to relax the body and mind and to relieve stress, tension and anxiety,” Milbrett said. It takes just one hour to forget the stressors of the day and to focus your energy on yourself.

“The ultimate goal of doing yoga and meditation is to achieve self-realization, (and) to find out what your true goals and priorities are in life,” Milbrett said.

In addition to holding classes, members of the Yoga and Meditation club participate in activities like vegetarian cooking classes, off-campus hikes and group mediation events.

Classes are held on Tuesday and Thursday. Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. is yoga and at 5:30 p.m. is beginning mediation. Thursday at 4:30 p.m. there is a group mediation and self-realization class. All classes are held in Valley Suite, 3rd floor of the University Union. For more information call 944-7817 or e-mail [email protected].