Health and Wellness | 2024

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Prep pg 06

Marathon

Cozy Cat Cafe

Letter from the Editor

As we come close to the end of another year, assignments seem to pile up and so does the stress. With only a few weeks left in the term, my best advice is to take a breath and keep going. I wanted this edition of Health and Wellness to give students opportunities to take that restful breath. In theme with Health and Wellness, take a load off and flick through to find a new spot to relax at. From restful activities, new places to eat, and some gentle exercise there is something for everyone. For my cat lovers out there, be sure to read all about the Eugene Springfield Cat Lounge. Be sure to check out the story on Flux Crystals for a meditative trip downtown. All of these articles were crafted to ensure students could find new and fun ways to prioritize their wellbeing.

Meet the Team

Special Sections Editor

Isabella Albin

Managing Editor

John Ofstedal

Cover Photo

Alex Hernandez

Special Sections Writers

Lizzy Lee

Bailey Meyers

Abigail Rea

Samantha Sobel

Georgia Tucker

Special Sections Photographers

Oliver Barlow

Alex Hernandez

Armando Ramirez

Rachel Kesich

Isabella Albin

Special Sections Editor

Lead Designer

Lindsay Rogers

Student Designers

Liz Blodgett

Ryan Ehrhart

Julia Faria

MaryClaire Lane

Abigail Raike

Account Managers

Taylor Baumgardner

Cori Caplinger

Cooper Gast

Lola Tagwerker

Business

Publisher & President

Eric Henry ehenry@dailyemerald.com

Benefits of Yoga in 2024

Written by Lizzy Lee | Illustrated and Designed by MaryClaire Lane

Yoga is a time-old form of exercise and meditation. Dating back to northern India over 5,000 years ago, yoga carries many benefits for anyone looking to calm the mind or wanting a low-impact way of moving the body. Yoga first appeared in the Hinduism sacred text, the Rig Veda. The word itself comes from the Sanskrit word “Yuj” which means “to bind.” Yoga has been and still is about the union between the body and mind. Modern-day yoga has slowly transitioned away from religion and is now a common meditation and exercise practice. The reasoning may vary from person to person but there are many benefits to practicing yoga.

Why Yoga?

Flexibility

Yoga is made up of many different poses. Some are more well known than others like the downward dog and tree pose. Many yoga poses are named after things in nature, which symbolizes a connection to nature. The continuous practice of doing these poses increases flexibility. For many people, flexibility is a very important thing to keep up. It is an important part of keeping a healthy body.

Increased Strength

Yoga can range from high to low intensity, depending on your needs and restrictions. Most people think that yoga is only about flexibility but that doesn’t have to be the case if you don’t want it to be. Depending on the yoga classes or videos, you can work on strength building. Yoga can be a form of exercise for all age groups.

Stress Relief

Life can be very stressful whether you are a student or a full-time worker. Everyday stresses can wear down people, but yoga can help people relieve those stresses. Stretching and movement aren’t the only components of yoga. Pranayama is the breath control and regulation in yoga. This creates a free flow of energy. The idea of this ancient practice is to achieve the ultimate state of awareness. Meditation and breathwork can lessen tension and relieve stress. Along with reduced stress, yoga also can help improve mental health. There are yoga therapies and breathing-based treatments for depressive symptoms.

Immunity Boost

A lot of our physical and mental health are connected. Many people experience a hit to their immune system because of stress. A compromised immune system invites illness. I am sure I’m not the only one who’s fallen sick after a stressful week. While research is still being done, some studies have linked the consistent practice of yoga and a better immune system. This is also helped by yoga’s benefit to reduce inflammation.

The benefits of yoga aren’t contained to just these points. There are many more benefits that people can gain from yoga that range from physical to mental.

The most important thing when entering the world of a new hobby is to make sure you enjoy it. Don’t just think about the benefits, but also reflect on if it works for you and your body. Things may sound really good on paper but in reality, it just doesn’t work and that is okay.

REGROUND WITH FLUX CRYSTALS

Written by Samantha Sobel | Photographed by Armando Ramirez | Designed by Ryan Ehrhart

Flux Crystals is a local metaphysical shop in Downtown, West Eugene that features a handpicked selection of crystals, jewelry, local art, and self-care goods.

Flux has become a local favorite that hosts workshops and creates a safe, relaxing space in the heart of the community. The soothing atmosphere is designed to calm your nervous system and alleviate stress. Come by to smell some incense and appreciate the tranquil ambiance after a long day of classes.

While crystals are known for their beauty, they’re used for much more than their looks. Crystal therapy is an alternative medicine practice that utilizes the energy of various stones and crystals to create alignment. Many believe crystals are helpful tools in promoting balance and well-being. They do this by positively interacting with the body’s energy and chakras. Different types of crystals correspond to varying properties that can aid in achieving goals and manifesting desires.

Flux Crystals is known for its affordable, yet vast selection of crystals. Their crystals come in every shape imaginable, so you can amplify your intentions and harness your energy in different ways. They also sell bundles of lavender, wildflower, and sage with specific instructions to teach the step-by-step process of cleansing, using smoke.

Janelle, the owner of Flux Crystals, loves “creating community” and helping her clients utilize crystals to “connect with the elements of the Earth.” She opened the boutique after going

through some major life transitions during the pandemic and found a way to make a name for her business, despite difficult times. At the start of COVID-19, “people were looking to support small businesses more than usual” giving Janelle a good foundation for the future of her crystal shop.

Metaphysical shops are important to the community because they help people “get in touch with their spirit and go past the depths of the material world.” Janelle uses crystals as tools to deep dive into her mental health and become more in touch with what she is feeling at that given moment. “They’re just little reminders to help me be more in tune with my well-being,” Janelle said.

Janelle encourages beginners to “go into a crystal shop and just see what calls out to you.” She suggests people research each crystal “to see how it resonates” and learn how to connect with “your intuition about how that crystal wants to interact with you.” This is a good way to gradually learn more about crystals and start forming a relationship with the practice. Crystal therapy can be as simple as wearing a necklace or bracelet. As long as you are connecting with the crystal’s energy, there isn’t a “right” way to use them. If you are just beginning your journey with crystals and don’t know where to start, Flux provides mystery

crystal bags for only $11 to broaden your horizons. Alternatively, many sources say Clear Quartz is a good crystal for beginners because it is known to amplify intentions, connect with higher levels of consciousness, and align chakras.

Flux Crystals hold a sacred space in their Zen Den for tarot and tea readings. Their tarot specialist, Mary Moon offers twenty-minute readings from 3-6 p.m. on Fridays. Janelle said that tarot “gives people the chance to dive deeper into the spirit realm” and offers intuitive guidance for “those who are seeking some sort of therapeutic nourishment in their life.” They always take walk-ins, but if you prefer a onehour reading, you can make an appointment online.

On the first Friday of every month, Flux has an art walk featuring the Lane Arts Council and a variety of local artists. Flux Crystals has become a hub for cultivating creativity in Downtown Eugene, constantly opening its doors up for community events. If you want to dive even deeper into the intuitive world, their tea reading host, Starlight, provides guidance through the movement and configuration of tea leaves. You can find Mary and Starlight’s email on their website to schedule an appointment.

As one of the highest-rated metaphysical shops in Eugene, Flux Crystals has 4.8 stars on Google and 62 positive reviews. Flux has flexible hours to aid you in your self-care journey, open Tuesday through Sunday from 12-6 p.m. If you want to stay up to date on their workshops and events, follow them on Instagram and Facebook @fluxcrystalboutique.

Running to Connect: Training for the Eugene Marathon

The sound of shoes rhythmically hitting the pavement interrupts an otherwise quiet Saturday morning at Alton Baker Park. Autumn Berke runs by sporting sky blue Hokas. Her pace is swift yet relaxed, making her eight-mile run appear effortless as she passes by park benches covered in moss. Berke has been running for over five years and is now training for the largest marathon in the Pacific Northwest - the Eugene Marathon.

Berke has been involved in sports for most of her life. She has participated in everything from competitive diving to rugby, but cross-country was the one sport she truly connected with. The individualized nature of running along with its accessibility made it especially appealing to Berke. “You just need shoes and you can go,” Berke said.

Since she started running

competitively in high school, running has become a permanent fixture of Berke’s routine. Each morning while the many students are snoozing alarms, she is outside running.

“When I’m training, it’s really important for me not to miss a day,” Berke said.

“I know that getting up and going on a run is going to pay off for me in the future.”

After doing her fair share of 10Ks and half-marathons, Berke said she was ready for a new goal- the full 26.2 miles of a marathon. Over the summer, she decided to run the Pacific Northwest Marathon. The thought of training for a marathon was initially daunting to her. She said she felt both nervous and excited as she wondered if she could complete the 26.2 miles.

“The thought of doing something that I really didn’t know if I was going to be

Written by Bailey Meyers

Photographed by Alex Hernandez

Designed by Lindsay Rogers

able to do was exciting,” Berke said.

With her dad across the country in Boston, marathon training has been a way to stay connected. Although Berke admits her dad doesn’t have a running background, they both share a love for health and fitness. Before the Pacific Northwest Marathon, they would schedule regular Zoom calls to discuss her training progress and any adjustments they needed to make to the training plan.

“He’s someone who I look to for advice with pretty much anything,” Berke said. “He helps me stay accountable and it’s honestly made us a lot closer.”

Berke began training by following a 12-16 week plan. The plan consists of running 3-5 mile runs during the week and doing a long run over the

weekend. The mileage for the long run increases each week until a 20-mile run is reached. After the 20-mile run, about three weeks before the marathon, the mileage decreases to encourage recovery and have “fresh legs” for the race. The plan is a combination of various training plans she and her dad found online that they customized together to fit her own timeline.

On the warm September morning of the Pacific Northwest Marathon, Berke was preparing to run 26.2 miles. She safety-pinned her bib adorned with a giant “6” onto her gray tank top, laced up her dirt-splattered Hokas and had one last call with her dad before heading to the starting line, anxiously awaiting the sound of the gun. After the first couple of miles, Berke felt her nerves dissipate. She felt comfortable with her pacing, barely stopping to quickly chug a cup of water at each

hydration station. With British rap blasting in her headphones, she stayed entertained throughout the flat, rolling fields of the course.

When Berke turned the corner on the last mile of the marathon and saw the finish line a sense of relief and excitement came over her.

“I saw my two roommates with these big signs,” she said. “It felt really good that they were supporting me and I was happy that they could see that I really love this.”

After completing the Pacific Northwest Marathon, Berke was ready to take on her next challenge- the Eugene Marathon. She said the Eugene Marathon is different from any other race because the course consists of the parks and streets she runs on daily. The historic aspect of the marathon is also exciting to Berke.

“There’s so much running history in Eugene and I think that’s really special. I’m really excited to be running in Hayward Field,” Berke said. “It’s fun because I live here and I have never been in a race this big.”

Completing her first marathon confirmed the effectiveness of her training plan and proved she has the drive to finish all 26.2 miles, yet Berke still experiences pre-race nerves.

“I’m feeling nervous for different reasons. For the first marathon, I was

nervous because I had no idea what to expect, but for this one, I’m nervous because I have more of a goal,” Berke said. “But at the end of the day, I’m just happy to be a part of the experience.”

Although running 26.2 miles may seem daunting to the average person, Berke believes that running is for everyone, and the first step is putting on a pair of shoes and going outside. She recommends beginning with a slow pace and low mileage and then building up to faster speeds and longer distances. “Running should make you feel good,” Berke said. Going outside and being active is an accomplishment by itself and eventually long distances will feel like an attainable goal, she said.

For Berke, 26.2 miles was more than attainable. She completed the Eugene Marathon in under four hours, beating her previous marathon time by nearly ten minutes. After running two marathons in one year, Berke says she is ready to take a break from training and begin running for fun again.

“Running is a big motivator for other aspects of my life,” Berke said.

“Running marathons gives me the bravery to do other hard things that I didn’t think I could do.”

Photo courtesy of Eugene Marathon

Written by Georgia Tucker | Designed by Abigail Raike

As we move forward through the spring season, you might wonder what your next outdoor adventure will be. The best thing you can do to take care of yourself is to enjoy the sun and get some fresh air. There are so many wonderful hiking and biking trails around Eugene, most of which are fairly mild and accessible for everyone! Here are four beautiful trails that are perfect for the spring season!

idgeline Trail R

Ridgeline Trail is a 12 mile hike that starts south on Willamette Street. This is considered one of the more challenging hikes around Eugene, with an elevation gain of 2,133ft, and an approximate hike time of 5 hours and 43 minutes to complete the entire trail. Along the trail there are different paths you can take that are shorter hikes. This park is known as one of Eugene’s largest semi-connected parklands. It’s a great trail for those who love hiking, running, or just enjoying the scenic route. At the top of the hike you will find a breathtaking view of green grassy fields and bumpy mountain tops. The path is lined with deep green ferns and wild moss, as tall trees cut the misty Oregon air. When you get to the starting point of the hike, there will be a map with a list of trails throughout the park.

re’s Trail P

Pre’s trail is a 4.3-mile hike, located on Martin Luther King Blvd at the famous Alton Baker Park. It takes the average person approximately 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete this hike. This trail was named after an Oregon track legend, Steve Prefontaine. Built in 1975 after the death of Prefontaine, the trail was designed with Pre’s vision in mind, with luscious green trees and a bark chip path. The trail was designed for those who love to run or enjoy the great outdoors. This is a great spot to go for a nice and easy walk .

pring Boulevard Trailhead S mazon Headwaters Trail A

Mount Baldy, also known as Spring Boulevard Trailhead, is a 2.1 mile hike with an elevation of 554ft. This trail is known as a moderately challenging hike that takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. It is located in the same area as the Ridgeline trail, with beautiful forest paths and lookout points along the trail. Thick Clouds cast over the woods as rays of sunshine force their way through. The transition between winter and spring brings a sunny chill to these woods. This is a great spot to check out if you are looking for a gorgeous view.

Amazon Headwaters Trail is a 3.4 mile hike with an elevation of 141ft. This trail is fairly easy to complete, with only a few uphill paths. Overall it takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete this specific trail. The trail is located on Canyon Dr, Eugene. This trail is beautiful no matter the season, with hidden streams and tall mossy trees. Currently, the wild flowers are in full bloom. When you approach the beginning of the trail, you will cross a bridge carved from oak as you begin your hiking adventure.

I hope you enjoyed this list of hiking spots in the Eugene area! Next time you are feeling like you need some fresh air, I hope you consider checking out these beautiful trails.

COZY CAT CAFE

IN SPRINGFIELD

WRITTEN BY ABBY REA

PHOTOGRAPHED BY RACHEL KESICH

DESIGNED BY JULIA FARIA

THE Eugene Springfield Cat Lounge

We all need a break from our routines every once in a while. At any point in the term, an escape from campus, or a pause from classes and work. Coffee shops are always a nice option, but I think we all get a little tired of our regular rotation. My attention was piqued with the news of a new cafe opening in Springfield. This cafe is not the average spot though, it is a cafe that is home to multiple cats, all of which are available to adopt! If you are in need of some animal therapy, or just a relaxing place to hang out for an hour, this spot is perfect for you.

VISITING THE CAFE

The Cat Lounge relies on an appointment-only system so be sure to check their website for availability and book a few days in advance. They are also closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and are closed from 2-3 pm every day in order for the cats to have an afternoon cat nap. Each available session is 50 minutes and starts at the top of the hour. They have

a snack and beverage menu, and will soon be adding beer and wine. Each session is $12, but they also offer a membership option on their website where you can pay $24 for three months of frequent visits.

AMENITIES

The Eugene Springfield Cat Lounge offers many different group sessions on a rotating schedule, including knitting, crafting, and meditation. The space itself is set up like a cozy home with many different couches and chairs accompanied by cat trees and other cat spaces. The Lounge also makes a great place to make a real connection with the cats. This is great if you are looking to adopt but are unsure of what kind of cat you would like to take home with you. There are also endless amounts of toys around the space to fulfill the cats’ playing needs.

The Eugene Springfield Cat Lounge is the perfect place to spend any afternoon, especially if you have been craving some animal attention.

All of the cats are extremely friendly and either looking for a cuddle or some playtime. You can definitely find whatever type of cat you would want to hang out with for an hour. 50 minutes will fly by and you will not want to leave by the time your session is up!

BEST SPOTS

for COMFORT FOOD

Written by Abigail Rae | Designed & Illustrated by Liz Blodgett

In my opinion, enjoying a good meal is the best form of self-care.

Everyone has at least one meal that can momentarily calm all their anxieties. This list will include some of the obvious favorites, like mac and cheese, while also including some other cultural favorites like empanadas and doro wat. While this collection just scratches the surface, Eugene has restaurants and food trucks that can cater to all your comfort food needs.

Mac n Cheese

Stewarts Soul Fusion, 4091 West 11th, Eugene, OR, 97402

Stewart’s sits in an unassuming parking lot that is occupied mostly by different home furnishing companies. While sitting off the main road, you can smell Stewart’s as soon as you pull into the parking lot. Much of the menu is Southern-inspired Soul food, with some dishes having a vegan or vegetarian option. The real star of the show is the mac and cheese. This mac and cheese is the perfect combination of cheesy and creamy with a good texture from the noodles. It is perfect on its own, but also is a great addition to any of the options on the menu, including the Soul Plate and the Pulled Pork sandwich. If you are craving some warm, homemade mac and cheese, Stewarts is the place to go.

Pho

Vietnam Restaurant, 2355 West 11th, Eugene, OR, 97402

Personally, pho is the perfect food for any mood or season. Eating pho feels like a light at the end of the tunnel. Finding the pho that was worthy of the “perfect comfort food” title was difficult. Despite this, Vietnam Restaurant down West 11th is my favorite place for pho in Eugene. All of their soups are delicious, but their classic beef pho is some of the best I have ever tasted. Each order of pho comes with a plate of all the toppings and additions you could need: limes, cilantro, Thai basil, and bean sprouts to name a few. If you are in need of a warm, brothy meal, hit up Vietnams.

Empanadas

Dominican Delights, at the Eugene Farmers Market every Saturday

For me, these empanadas always incentivize a trip to the Farmers Market or Saturday Market. Michael, the man who owns and runs the stand, has a rotating menu of either a beef, chicken, or vegetable empanada, depending on availability. He cooks them all fresh, all day, and you can tell how much love he had for his craft. Each empanada is stuffed with a perfectly seasoned filling that consists of meat and hearty chunks of potato and carrot. The experience of eating one of his empanadas is one that is almost unmatched by any other eating experience. If you are not able to make it out to the farmers market every Saturday, they do sell packs of frozen empanadas as well!

Doro Wat

Makedas, 298 Blair Blvd, Eugene, OR, 97402

If you have ever visited the Saturday Market, Makedas might be a familiar name to you. This food truck has been in operation for many years and has become a true Eugene staple. They set up shop every Saturday at the Market and serve their Ethiopian staples for an extremely reasonable price. Makedas, though, also has their truck in operation during the week. Their usual spot is on Blair Boulevard right down the street from Blairally. The menu itself boasts many vegan and vegetarian options, but their most popular offering is the Doro Wat with Injera. This is a spicy chicken stew that is packed full of spices and served with a sourdough flatbread, perfect for scooping up all the delectable sauce from the chicken. With huge servings of delicious food for an extremely reasonable price, Makedas is the perfect spot for an afternoon!