[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/soulfoodposter.jpg” caption=”Soulfood Fair poster”]With most reeling from the hardships of recent winter storms, and now facing biting winds and short, overcast days, McMaster staff and students have a chance to come in out of the cold when the sixth annual Soulfood fair rolls into the McMaster University Student Centre Thursday, Feb. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This one-day event, themed “Heart & Soul”, is a celebration of mental, physical and emotional health and wellness. It emphasizes holistic well-being, with the balance of the body, mind and spirit.

The fair includes free workshops, musical concerts, and an exhibitors' fair with free samples, door prizes, and products for sale. Workshops include Tai Chi, scrapbooking, knitting skills, the healing power of drumming, singing and song writing basics, a trivia game, and massage for healing. Hospitality Services will also be donating free hot chocolate throughout the day. In addition, Feb. 3 is Soul Day at The Pulse with free admission to classes all day.

Soulfood is a result of the collaborative and co-operative efforts of several McMaster departments and students, and brings together McMaster University, community partners and private practitioners. Chaired by Carol Wood, ecumenical chaplain, the Soulfood Organizing Committee includes Athletics and Recreation, the Campus Health Centre, the Centre for Student Development, the Chaplaincy Centre, Indigenous Studies, the International Students' Office, and students. The event is sponsored by Working @ McMaster.

For a complete listing of exhibitors and workshops, visit csd.mcmaster.ca/soulfood  online pre-registration for workshops is encouraged.