This year YCIS Chongqing has introduced a Health and Well-Being Program for all of our Secondary students. On each Friday afternoon, after a week of studying hard, students had the opportunity to decompress by engaging in a physical activity of their choice.

In the first block, students participated in activities such as disc golf, soccer, yoga, weight training, tai chi, dance, basketball and a brisk outdoor walk. After an afternoon full of activities the students were given the time to reflect on their health and well-being through mindfulness and reflection on their student activity portfolios on Managebac. This practice helps our students to be fully present, aware of where they are and what they are doing, and to not be overly reactive or overwhelmed by what’s going on around them.

Over the years, research has shown exercise and physical activity not only helps us to get a healthier body but has many more positive effects on mental and emotional health than most people are aware of. To summarize, exercise leads to a healthy body, sharper memory and thinking skills, a higher self-esteem, more energy, better sleep, and stronger resilience.

As a school we are promoting the welfare of all the students in our care and believe that it is extremely important that our students need an outlet to relax, reflect and improve their health and well-being.

In the next block, which starts after the Chinese Spring Festival break, students have a choice of new activities in which they can participate and continue to develop as healthy global citizens.