Coug Health

From the time students enter Washington State University until they are preparing to leave, a main concern is staying healthy.  Who hasn’t heard about the famous freshman 15, or the break downs students face under the pressures of college life? Cougs may come to WSU thinking they will find a healthy life balance during freshman year that will carry them through until they are seniors. However, as many upperclassmen know, myself included, that may or may not happen. There are many obstacles that keep students from maintaining a good standard of health.

How many times have you heard friends, or even yourself, say that this is the semester they are finally going to find a balance and figure out how to juggle exercise, friends, food, relaxation, etc?  Perhaps some of their goals include getting outside and exercising, not overstressing an exam, or avoiding junk food when pressed for time.  There are hundreds of variables that go into staying healthy.  It is easy to overdo one area and completely forget another.

According to “Medical News Today,” a health and medical news website, the most famous definition of health was established in 1948 by the World Health Organization. 

"Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."

This definition reminds us it is not just eating healthy foods and exercising that lead to a healthy lifestyle.  However, I believe that keeping yourself physically healthy can only lead to improved mental and social well-being. 

Throughout this semester the contributors to “Cougar Food & Fitness” will transform this blog into a resource that students can use to achieve a healthy college lifestyle.  Make sure to stop by regularly for tips, advice and tools specific to WSU.  You can use this blog to help improve your physical health and that will improve your entire health. 

More information on the Medical News Today article can be found at: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/150999.php