During the celebration of National Teachers’ Day last Oct. 5, De La Salle University (DLSU) gifted members of its faculty and staff with the gift of wellness with the inauguration of the Shalom Center, a campus relaxation and wellness area for the exclusive use of DLSU personnel.

“The very nature of our jobs — educating, caring and being responsible for thousands of students — is filled with challenges,” says Br. Bernard Oca FSC, vice chancellor for Lasallian Mission and External Relations. “The University recognizes the importance of providing spiritual, emotional, and mental balance to our dedicated working community.”

Shalom, in Hebrew, means peace, harmony, and a sense of equilibrium.

The 300-square-meter facility features lounge areas, a silent room, a coffee area and a media lounge. Scheduled reflexology services and yoga classes are also offered at the DLSU Shalom Center.

COPING WITH ANXIETIES

When typhoon Ondoy hit Metro Manila days before the formal opening of the center, many teaching and non-teaching staff were affected. Some lost their homes, their cars, and some lost almost everything.

Br. Bernie thus dedicates the Shalom Center to these affected personnel, hoping that this facility may help them cope with the past weeks’ troubles and anxieties.

“The support of the University is very laudable. They really made us feel that we’re one family. We’re all Lasallians,” says Student Publications Office director Fritzie Ian Paz De Vera, whose house and car were damaged.

A number of wellness activities are being lined-up for Lasallians to enjoy in the coming weeks.