Woodland Community College is hosting the third annual “Sana Sana: Health & Healing Walk/Run” on Monday, Sept. 18. The event aims to raise awareness and promote health and healing practices in everyday life. Dr. Melissa Moreno, a professor of ethnic studies at the college, is organizing the walk/run. The event will begin with welcoming and acknowledgments at 10 a.m., followed by the walk/run at 10:30 a.m. Participants should meet outside Room 101 at the college to sign up and sign a waiver. School faculty can also receive flex credit for participating.
The Native American Studies and Chicana/o Latina/o Health departments are hosting the walk/run, which focuses on health issues for Latinos and the impact of poverty, lack of education, and limited access to healthcare. The route spans 1.06 miles, emphasizing self-awareness and the benefits of being outdoors. The walk/run is open to both on- and off-campus members of Yolo County. Participants will pass by the college’s rose garden and have the opportunity to enjoy the scenic surroundings.
During the event, Taller de Nuevo Amanecer will offer poster prints, and the Woodland College Maker Space staff will provide pins. Water will be available from the college’s Health Center. Dr. Moreno advises participants to wear comfortable shoes and bring a “healthy contribution” of fruit, vegetables, or juices. Regular walking has numerous health benefits, including supporting the digestive system, improving sleep, burning calories, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, boosting brain power, and sustaining a strong immune system.
The event will commence with “a land and life acknowledgment,” body stretches, intention setting, and a message from the college’s interim president, Dr. Santanu Bandyopadhyay. The walk is being held in collaboration with the California Tribal College, Native Dads Network, and Northern Valley Indian Health, Taller de Nuevo Amanecer, WCC Health Center, and Woodland College Fund Committee. For more information, please contact Dr. Moreno at mmoreno@yccd.edu.