Health

Suwa Diviya ‘Live Well Health Fair’ concludes with resounding success

The ‘Live Well Health Fair’, organized by Suwa Diviya successfully concluded on 30th November at the Arcade Independence Square amid a crowd of enthusiastic participants comprising children, adults, and senior citizens. Highlighting the need to lead a healthy lifestyle void of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer, obesity, and cardiovascular disease, the ‘Live Well Health Fair’ was an insightful event that delivered an important message on health and wellbeing. The event was also a timely initiative that brought World Diabetes Month to a close. This year’s observance, themed ‘Diabetes and Wellbeing,’ was led globally by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).

Sponsored by the Sunshine Foundation for Good, Suwa Diviya is a non-profit organization committed to addressing the growing prevalence of diabetes and played a key role in organising the 'Live Well Health Fair.' “Our goal was to emphasize the significant impact of lifestyle choices on overall health and wellbeing. By providing individuals with access to essential resources, we strive to empower them on their journey toward healthier living,” Head of Suwa Diviya, Dr. Kayathri Periasamy explained.

The health fair provided the public an opportunity to engage in knowledge-sharing activities and obtain professional insights on how to lead a healthy lifestyle. Informative sessions on critical topics such as diabetes management, fatty liver, heart health, nutrition, and physical fitness, were conducted by officials from the Ministry of Health, medical professionals, educationalists, and fitness professionals, representing both the public and private sector. The event also saw participation from key organizations, including the Sri Lanka College of Endocrinology, Alcohol and Drug Information Centre (ADIC), Sri Lanka Cancer Society, and Sri Lanka Society of Lifestyle Medicine.

The ‘Live Well Health Fair’ was segmented into three different areas showcasing a speaker zone, kids’ zone, and fitness zone. The fair was bustling with activity as vibrant stalls dedicated to conducting free medical screenings, nutritious and organic food, health supplements, and awareness sessions were scattered across the premises. A dedicated Kids’ Zone and other health-related exhibits further enriched the experience. Sponsored by Atlas Axilia, the Kids’ Zone, offered a range of entertaining activities designed to educate young minds on the importance of healthy living. The children enjoyed games and interactive sessions aimed to promote wellness and sustainable lifestyle habits. These activities were collaboratively conducted by Veena and Thiwanka, Sithumya, Mrs. Seema Omar, McKinsey Young Leaders, Independent Collective School, Parentthrive, Ms Niroshi Embuldeniya and Dr. Nimeera Weeraratna. The activities not only provided entertainment but also emphasized practical lessons on health. Several participants walked away with exciting prizes, encouraging them to embrace a healthier lifestyle journey.

While the public availed the opportunity for free health screenings, which included a check-up of the Body Mass Index (BMI), blood glucose levels, vision tests, blood pressure levels, and feet assessment for diabetics, there were exclusive deals for the healthy shopaholics. Healthy food and wellness products representing leading brands such as Abans PLC, Paan Paan, CIC, Easy Kitchen, Nawaloka Hospitals, Asiri Hospitals, St. Joseph's Hospitals, Revival Physiotherapy, Caretech Health, One Rehab, Sunshine Tea, Sunshine Healthcare, Vision Care, Green Olive Investment and Green Leaf Products partook in the event in solidarity with Suwa Diviya, to promote the significance of leading a healthy lifestyle. The Brahma Kumaris Raja Yoga Center, American Water, Forest Garden, Bio Life, Align Footwear, Wellnesscultz, Kala Plants, ADIC, Cancer Society, Simply Staples, and Healthy Chinese Cuisine also featured several stalls displaying a wide range of products and services tailored to meet the requirements of healthy lifestyle choices.

Dr. Aneshaa Rajandram, Damitha, Piyumi Viranjani Somawansa, the Sri Lanka Calisthenics Society, and Isuru and Natasha Fonseka from Fit.lk conducted a variety of physical activities, ranging from yoga and meditation to Zumba, intensive workouts, and breathing exercises. These sessions provided attendees with diverse opportunities to stay active and healthy. Additionally, mental well-being also took center stage, with therapists and psychologists conducting sessions and providing valuable insights.

The Suwa Diviya ‘Live Well Health Fair’ was an impressive event that highlighted the rising community interest in health and wellness. The fair fostered meaningful interactions, inspiring participants to engage in healthier lifestyles and make informed health choices. With various activities, workshops, and resources available, the event effectively promoted a culture of health and wellness within the community.