Salud, a Spanish word that means “health” or “wellness”, is more than just a word. It is a way of life, a mindset, and a community that promotes positive experiences and uplifts individuals. In today’s fast-paced world, where stress and anxiety have become the norm, Salud offers a refreshing and rejuvenating approach towards health and wellness. And one person who has truly embraced this way of life is Neil Gajare, a student at the University of Pennsylvania.
Neil Gajare, a senior at UPenn, has been an active member of the Salud community since his freshman year. He stumbled upon Salud during his first year at college and was immediately drawn to its positive and inclusive atmosphere. Being an international student from India, Neil was initially hesitant to join any student organizations. But Salud‘s welcoming and diverse community made him feel right at home.
“I have always been interested in health and wellness, and Salud seemed like the perfect fit for me. I was pleasantly surprised by how inclusive and supportive the community was, and I knew I had found my place at UPenn,” says Neil.
Since joining Salud, Neil has had numerous positive experiences that have not only helped him grow as an individual but have also made a significant impact on his overall well-being. One of the most significant experiences for Neil was participating in the annual Salud wellness retreat. The retreat, held in a serene and picturesque location, focused on various aspects of health, including physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
“The Salud retreat was a life-changing experience for me. It allowed me to disconnect from the chaos of college life and reconnect with myself. The workshops and activities helped me understand the importance of self-care and taught me practical ways to incorporate it into my daily routine,” shares Neil.
Apart from the retreat, Salud also hosts weekly events and workshops that cover a wide range of topics, from nutrition and fitness to mindfulness and stress management. These events have not only helped Neil gain knowledge and insight into different aspects of health but have also allowed him to connect with like-minded individuals.
“Salud has given me a platform to learn and grow in a supportive and positive environment. I have made some amazing friends through Salud, and we motivate and inspire each other to lead a healthy and balanced life,” says Neil.
But Salud is not just about personal growth and well-being; it also focuses on creating a positive impact in the community. One of the most significant initiatives taken by Salud is its partnership with the Anti-Defamation League to combat anti-Semitism on college campuses. Neil Gajare, being of Indian descent, has always been passionate about promoting diversity and inclusivity, and Salud‘s partnership with the ADL resonated with him deeply.
“I have seen firsthand the impact of discrimination and hate, and I strongly believe that it is our responsibility to stand up against it. Salud‘s partnership with the ADL is a step towards creating a more inclusive and accepting community, and I am proud to be a part of it,” expresses Neil.
Salud‘s efforts towards promoting diversity and inclusivity have not gone unnoticed. In 2018, the organization was awarded the “Outstanding Student Organization Award” by UPenn for its exceptional contribution to the campus community.
As Neil‘s time at UPenn comes to an end, he reflects on his journey with Salud and the positive impact it has had on him. “Salud has taught me the importance of self-care, community, and giving back. It has helped me become a better version of myself, and I am grateful for the experiences and memories I have made through this organization,” says Neil with a smile.
In a world where negativity and stress seem to be the norm, Salud offers a refreshing and positive perspective towards health and wellness. And with individuals like Neil Gajare who embody the essence of Salud, the organization continues to inspire and motivate individuals to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. As the saying goes, “health is wealth”, and Salud is undoubtedly enriching the lives of many, one positive experience at a time.