At the Mussallem Nutritional Education Center in UC Irvine’s Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute, students are honing their culinary skills in a relaxed atmosphere. Jessica VanRoo, the executive chef of the Samueli Institute, provides insights during a ‘Meal Prep 101’ class where participants prepare chimichurri. “Through our evidence-informed integrative health practice – whether it’s a nutritional education cooking lesson or an empowering tai chi class – we help you nourish the whole person: mind, body and spirit,” says Dr. Shaista Malik, the institute’s founding executive director.
The center provides not only cooking classes but also mindfulness programs aimed at maintaining a healthy mind. Jessica Drew De Paz, director of mindfulness programs, highlights the importance of community connection in her mindfulness-based stress reduction classes. “I think people are longing for spaces of connection,” she observes.
Medical issues often drive attendees to seek out the center’s offerings. Chris Warmbold, a cooking class participant, reflects on how dietary changes improved his health significantly. “The thing that I wish everyone could be taught is why these foods are important,” he shares.
Classes also aim to empower participants with cooking skills that enable them to enjoy healthier meals. VanRoo emphasizes, “Cooking is a skill you want to learn and be able to do so you can avoid processed foods. It’s a great way to learn about control – being able to enjoy something but knowing your limits.
Shin Lin, a tai chi instructor at the institute, adds to the wellness offerings by teaching this ancient practice, which promotes mental and physical well-being. Tai chi is described as “moving meditation” and provides various health benefits, improving concentration and reducing anxiety.
Participants leave the classes equipped with knowledge about nutrition, food preparation, and mindfulness, contributing to their overall well-being and fostering a deeper sense of community.
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