Woof! Woof! That was the sound that greeted you once you walked into the tents at the Graduation Square today. Heri, Nala, Poodles and their companions needed no introduction. They were instant celebrities. Everyone crouched low, happily screaming “awww” as paws pressed into their laps, and it was evident that stress melted away with each gentle stroke of their fur.

When many of us think about wellness, what often comes to mind are gyms, strict diets, or endless supplements. But today’s Wellness Fair flipped that idea on its head. It showed us that wellness isn’t limited to routines or restrictions—it can be intentional, creative, and, most importantly, exciting and fun.

People were welcomed by juicy apples at the registration, and this was just the beginning of the colorful day that it was! Everywhere you looked, something was happening. There was always something to hook you on. A giant Jenga pile was in the middle of the tents, circles of friends held their breath every time someone removed a block. Not far off, staff members rolled up their sleeves for the department painting challenge, each representing their departments with their unique hidden talents. Beneath a shaded tent, people scribbled a worry onto a piece of paper, folded it carefully, then tossed it into the wellness bin with a quiet smile, a small act of release that left many feeling way lighter.

Our physical well-being was also in the spotlight. Fitness coaches and wellness experts kept the energy high with Zumba sessions at 1 pm and 4 pm, transforming the square into a dance floor. Beyond the rhythm, health screenings for eyes, dental care, blood pressure, sugar and nutrition enabled us to check in on our health status. Adding a heartfelt touch, the Mental Health Club shared roses to raise awareness on suicide prevention.

Food is the heart of every gathering, and Brown’s Food Co. kept everyone delighted with their natural ice creams, artisan cheeses and wholesome snacks that made our taste buds happy. Around the square, corporates like APA Insurance, I&M Bank, Zamara, Stanbic Bank and Lifestyle Homes, among many others, reminded everyone that wellness extends beyond the body, it’s also about our financial stability, security and the environments we live in.

By the end of the day, it was evident that wellness doesn’t have to be boring,  it can be intentional, creative and full of fun. True wellness goes beyond caring for the physical body. It’s about nurturing our hearts, protecting our mental health, managing our finances wisely and safeguarding the environments we live in.  We were each challenged to make wellness part of our daily lives because, at the end of the day, no one else can take care of our well-being better than we can. It starts with the small choices we make, the habits we build and the joy we allow ourselves to embrace.

Special thanks to all our vendors who joined us to bring the eight dimensions of wellness to life and show us practical ways to embrace them in our daily routines. From healthy bites and fitness tips to financial advice and lifestyle guidance, each of you played a vital role in making the Wellness Fair both impactful and memorable. We appreciate the contributions of: Browns Foods, APA Insurance, Small Five Vet, fitness coaches from MoFit & Workout Warehouse, Lifestyle Homes, I&M Bank, Zamara, Stanbic Bank, Kereita, Kenyan Alliance, CPF, Nuribooks, Pet Store, Supplements, and of course, the Wellness Team for ensuring the day was a true success and that everyone felt cared for.

For everyone who came out to embrace this day, we celebrate you and for those of us who missed out, there’s always next year. Mark your calendars early!

Article written by Linda Rerimoi, 3rd Year Student, BA in Communications.