Why water?

by Holly Hajjaj, Director of Bluestem Wellness Center – Hesston & Bluestem Employee Wellness

We all know that staying active is one of the most important things we can do to support our health, independence and quality of life. The question for many of us though is how best? What kind of exercise can one do that is not only motivating and enjoyable but also infinitely do-able on a regular basis?  

While traditional land-based, weight-bearing exercise has clear benefits and should always be part of everyone’s daily activity, water-based exercise offers a wide range of unique advantages that make it especially well-suited for improving anyone’s health and fitness at any level of ability.  

Both those struggling with physical issues like mobility, balance and chronic pain, as well as those simply desiring to increase their fitness level through whole body-based movement, can find alternative and additional solutions in the water. You’ll move, stretch and strengthen muscles you never knew you had, simply because of the resistance provided in every direction, combined with an increased range of mobility. All of this with a little extra buoyancy to boot!

Bluestem Wellness Centers in Hesston and North Newton offer a variety of great and fun organized water activities. There are also open swimming times available for those who’d prefer to use the pool solo, and a hot tub for increased soothing and relaxation. Whether it’s water walking/jogging, an aqua-aerobics class, playing water volleyball, going lap swimming, or taking a relaxing dip, simply allowing your body to move in water can be a powerfully effective tool for recovery, strength and endurance.

There’s something universal and timeless about our connection to the water. From the first joyful splash of childhood to the gentle rhythm of a swim in our later years, the water has a way of welcoming us back - refreshing the body and calming the mind. It’s a space where age melts away and vitality flows more freely.  

In a senior living community, a pool is more than just a recreational amenity—it’s a powerful wellness resource, empowering residents to stay active, confident and engaged, while supporting lifelong health in a safe, and enjoyable way. 

See the water-based exercise classes Bluestem Wellness Centers offers at both the Hesston and North Newton locations, as well as the open-swim schedules at bluestemwellness.com.