OTD Capstone Projects

Abstract

The New Beginnings Center is a workout facility that provides coaching in nutrition, fitness, and health behaviors for women experiencing obesity in low socioeconomic classes. The purpose of this project was to enhance the current 12-week curriculum based on reserch and client feedback, as well as create a potfolio for the marketing team of evidence and testamonies. The two curriculum additions focused on stress reduction through occupational balance and mindfulness. In the "Schedule Redesign" class, we focused on the importance of finding maladaptive time use in their schedule (e.g. watching too much TV, laying in bed too long, etc.) and replacing that time slot with behaviors that will help them reach their goals. Individuals were involved in analyzing their current schedule, participating in a lecuture of occupational balance, and actively rearranging their schedule to reduce stress and increase time for self-care, leisure, and exercise. The Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction workshop introduced the foundations of mindfulness, how to practice, and the benefits of practicing in regards to the cycle of stress and obesity. Furthermore, we discussed how mindfulness can help you bring awareness to current habits and allow you to change your health behaviors. Feedback from the two presentations indicated a need for stress-reduction classes to continue as a part of the curriculum.

Publication Date

Summer 9-1-2020

Faculty Mentor

Dr. Lorry Liotta-Kleinfeld, EdD, OTR/L, BCP

Department

Occupational Therapy, School of

College

Health Sciences & Nursing, Gordon E. Inman College of

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree

Doctorate of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Degree Level

Doctoral

Degree Grantor

Belmont University

Keywords

Health, Stress, Obesity, Low-income, Women, Weight-loss, Advocacy, Occupational Balance, Mindfulness

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