The Commitment-Awareness-Restorative-Engagement (CARE) Program of Bicol University College of Education
The Research is about the pilot testing of the holistic wellness program and self care tools of Bicol University College of Education Personnel.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48017/dj.v10i4.3420Keywords:
CARE Program, Employee well-being, Holistic wellness, Physical well-being, Self-care journalingAbstract
This study aimed to pilot test the CARE (Commitment-Awareness-Restorative-Engagement) Program and Holistic Wellness Tools for teaching and non-teaching personnel of Bicol University College of Education (BUCE), gather participants’ feedback, and design a final form for the CARE Holistic Wellness Program and Self-Care Tools. The program incorporated a webinar and evidence-based self-care strategies to enhance faculty and staff well-being and professional performance. A pilot test involving 21 participants utilized a mixed-methods approach, including self-care journaling, program evaluations, and feedback collection. Findings indicated a positive shift in BUCE's organizational culture, characterized by improved communication, collaboration, and mutual support among personnel. The quantitative analysis of the CARE program webinar evaluation garnered a mean score of 4.85, meaning the seminar was highly effective. The program demonstrated (1) increased awareness of wellness activities and self-care practices; (2) enhanced job satisfaction; (3) usability and accessibility of self-care tools; and (4) identification of individualized self-care preferences. Five key self-care practices emerged: 1) adequate sleep, 2) regular exercise, 3) dedicated relaxation time, 4) feeling refreshed upon waking, and 5) engaging in stress-reducing activities. The standardized self-care tool data revealed that participants required significant intervention in physical well-being, while moderate intervention was needed in mental, emotional, spiritual, professional, and social well-being. The study culminated in the development of "Customized Wellness Journaling," aligned with the CARE Program. The results underscore the importance of prioritizing employee well-being to foster a supportive work environment conducive to personal and professional growth. Recommendations include promoting face-to-face wellness activities, establishing wellness hubs, and utilizing customized self-care journals to encourage sustained healthy habits. Tailoring wellness journals to the specific needs of each educational institution is advised for maximum effectiveness.
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