St. Joseph Convent is an environment of health and wellness, geared to maximize and even enhance the well-being of our Sisters and Staff. The Wellness Center is separated into four different areas. One is the cardio area comprised of treadmills, nusteps and exercise bikes. Area two is the circuit area designed to help individuals build muscle and retrain the strength they already have . Area three is the wellness library consisting of books, movies and CDs. Everything from relaxation techniques to alternative exercises. The fourth area is the free weight area which is designed to help build muscles in specific areas and help keep limbs limber. We offer an arthritis exercise class twice a week to increase flexibility, range of motion and provide light exercise in a mostly seated position.

It is very important to keep track of a Sister's progress and celebrate meeting her goals. Our Wellness Coordinator individualizes each Sister's program based on goals, needs, medical history and any conditions that would like to be improved with the use of the equipment.

After using the Wellness Center, many Sisters enjoy a reward for their hard work by using the paraffin hand bath or foot massager. Since the start, many Sisters, even some as old as 101 have enjoyed the wellness benefits as evidenced by the weight loss, improved mobility, muscle strengthening, improved posture, lower blood pressure and many other positives of exercise.

For over 10 years we have offered continuous classes of Ba Dwan Jin, a lighter version of Tai Chi, the name translates "Eight Strands of Silk" and is one of many ancient forms of Chinese movement therapy. It is also known as one of the most popular forms of Qi Gong or breathing exercises. These eight movements energize the body and mind as they gently stretch the muscles and ligaments, open the joints and awaken the energy channels of the body. The high degree of concentration also stimulates the mental functions to sharpen and keep the mind alert. Regular practice of this exercise and other forms of Qi Gong have been proven to allay or cure many minor illnesses and transform its practitioner's lives into something much richer. Whether the student is 20 or 80 years old, this discipline can enhance one's physical, mental and spiritual well being. Michael Fricke is the instructor. He has studied Martial Arts for over forty years leading classes in Tai Chi, Chi Gong, Shaolin, etc. Michael also is a state-licensed massage therapist and has lectured on the holistic and therapeutic heritage of these Chinese systems of health.

We have semester classes.
For more information call: 1-920 533-1103
or email: dstageman@sssf.org
Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.