Balance is key for students in Westlake City Schools

Many of us experience a mood shift during the cold, dark days of winter. It’s common to feel tired, withdrawn and simply less happy in response to more time spent indoors.

While it can be tempting to want to slow down this time of year, our Westlake students remain busy, juggling academics and extracurricular activities. Not only is it a challenge to accomplish all that needs to be done, it’s even harder when motivation is in short supply. That’s why it’s important to remember the mind-body connection and stay Balanced both physically and mentally as we make the slow transition to spring.  

A Balanced Westlake student expresses a connection between physical well-being and makes conscious decisions that lead to a healthy lifestyle. They establish and maintain positive relationships by being mindful of others. They retain the ability to organize and self-regulate the demands of daily life.

Finding time to devote to every obligation is no easy task; it takes great dedication and perseverance. Westlake students are tasked with doing this every day as they balance their personal schedules along with their responsibilities both inside and outside of the classroom.

With so much going on in the world and in everyday life, it’s a struggle to remain Balanced. But when students remain focused on both their physical and mental health, they can learn how to address their needs and the needs of others more effectively.

They can find ways to stay active and physically fit and practice techniques to quiet their minds. They can devote energy to their studies and extracurriculars, while also nurturing their personal relationships.

The skills our students develop now will prepare them for the future and provide them with the tools they need to effectively manage their time, collaborate with others, and make healthy choices, all while keeping their mental well-being at the forefront.

It’s tempting to tune out and wait for warmer days ahead, but at Westlake, our students remain focused on their goals. I am inspired by them as they continue to support one another, stay positive and remain engaged. They balance their commitment to themselves with their commitment to their academic careers and maintain an equilibrium that keeps them on the path toward success.