periodiCALS, Vol. 8, Issue 1, 2018
On the heels of a particularly buggy flu season, we’re welcoming spring with health on our minds. Investigating the wide array of research being conducted on campus has inspired us to take a broad view of the subject, exploring it not only as human physical well-being but also the health of our environment, our food, our economy and ecosystems.
The stories that captured our attention highlight a range of issues that have been propelling our researchers and dig into some novel approaches to improving health. From using virtual reality for addressing chronic pain to examining what tree swallows can teach us about stress, our scientists are often driven to look for answers in unlikely places. But whatever their methods, they all share one overarching goal: to boost the well-being of people and communities near and far.
We hope these stories will spark thoughtful conversations about what it means to be healthy, as well as to live in a healthy society. Maybe this spring you’ll even be inspired, as we are, to visit a local farm, try a new food or beverage, and take time out to watch the birds.
