Wellness workshop on cooking and nutrition develops a following

Repeat attendees demonstrate popularity of seminar on healthy eating

teachers in a kitchenPresenter Susan Chasen of TheOrganicTeachingKitchen.com delivered a delicious, fun and inspiring food workshop for educators at the Rye Lake Lower Campus during Southern Westchester BOCES’ recent Staff Wellness Day.

Ms. Chasen showcased tasty ways to incorporate healthy foods into one’s diet. Her workshop was a popular choice among many. Several staff members from across the district who attended her workshop during last year’s Wellness Day eagerly returned.

cooking instructor demonstrates for students

Participants learned to make a Bok Choy Salad using seasonal vegetables with a sesame ginger dressing as well as no-bake Peppermint Chocolate Truffles.

Ms. Chasen talked about the benefits of eating whole foods and why cooking your own food is paramount. While students washed, diced, shredded, measured and blended food items, Ms. Chasen shared tips on shopping, stocking a pantry, enhancing flavors and textures, and using kitchen equipment.

She believes in empowering people to take ownership of their food choices and the impact that has on their health, with the possibility of reducing or even reversing chronic illness.

wellness workshop on nutrition

“My goal for attendees is to inspire them to be the CEO of their own health,” Ms. Chasen said. “It starts with an interactive, hands-on cooking workshop that uses all five -senses.”

She added that she said she was humbled by the following she’s developed at SWBOCES.

“Ms. Chasen’s presentation was an enriching experience for our staff, one that really resonated with them,” said Assistant Principal Nick Villano, a member of the SWBOCES Wellness Committee.

instructor holds up a green leafy veggie

"When we see people returning to our workshops year after year, it’s clear we’re creating something special. Their ongoing interest is a powerful reminder of the value we can bring to their lives. We will keep working together to deliver exceptional experiences that truly make a difference for our community.”