New ASB Position Prioritizes Wellness

Santa Margarita welcomes juniors Chloe Gruenberg and Sophia Angelos to their new positions as ASB Wellness Commissioners. The role is new to ASB and was developed to empower students to create, communicate and facilitate wellness-related events within the wellness lounge and throughout campus. Student-led events help create awareness, excitement and a sense of connectedness surrounding student wellness. The commissioners are selected by their peers and supported by SMCHS wellness and campus life staff. 

Q and A with the ASB Wellness Commissioners:

What do you hope to accomplish in this new role?

CG: As the Wellness Commissioner, I hope to create convenient, beneficial and fun opportunities for students to relax and de-stress. Through working with the Wellness Counselors, many activities are being planned to improve students' physical and mental health. 

SA: I hope to bring awareness to the mental illnesses that students are likely to face during high school and help them feel supported and reassured throughout their journey. I am also excited to introduce our Wellness Center to all the students and hopefully encourage them to visit our amazing counselors!

Why did you want to serve as wellness commissioner?

CG: I wanted to serve as the Wellness Commissioner because I believe physical and mental health are vital to the students at SM. Sometimes, life can get very busy, and finding time to care for yourself can be difficult. I want to help provide these opportunities for students to continue to work hard, achieve their goals and be their best selves.

SA: As an SM student participating in multiple sports and academic programs, I know how stressful life can get. Stress leads to anxiety and can affect our body, thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Last year, I was injured in a car crash and suffered severe brain injuries that prevented me from school, sports and my friends. I struggled with anxiety and depression as I worked hard to return to my daily life. Having gone through difficult times, I have learned good healthy habits and rehabilitation skills I want to share with my peers and community to help them lead healthy lives.

What wellness tips do you have for students?

CG: I recommend that students prioritize time management to effectively balance study time with time spent with family and friends. I also would recommend that students take time to recharge by utilizing the amazing Wellness Center we have here on campus, as well as the monthly activities offered.

SA: Stay organized. Organization can mean different things to different people, but if students can keep track of their schedules, it will relieve them from the stress of high school. Also, remember to ask for help when you need it! Getting advice from teachers, coaches, counselors, or friends never hurts. That's what they are there for!

How do you define wellness?

CG: I would define wellness as an approach to one's overall health that addresses physical, mental, and emotional health. It is important to keep a balanced life by taking time to rest and reset to ensure all these areas are healthy.

SA: People often think about wellness in terms of physical health (nutrition, exercise, etc.), but it is so much more. Wellness is a combination of physical, mental and spiritual well-being. The best way to achieve wellness is about the right balance. While physical activity is essential, we must remember to study and fuel our brains and relax and enjoy time with family and friends. 

What does wellness mean to you?

CG: To me, wellness means striving for a healthy body and mind. When striving for a healthy mind and body, I am encouraged to make time for activities and people I love. Overall, wellness revolves around balancing all aspects of life to thrive in all areas.

AG: I am a junior and play varsity girls lacrosse at SM. Also, I am in the International Baccalaureate and National Honor Society programs. Outside of school, I love playing soccer, skiing and hanging out with friends!

Please visit the SMCHS Wellness webpage for more information about the program.