Marianjoy chaplain helps Scouts with ‘The Science of Happiness’ project – Chicago Daily Herald

When Jessica Quetua, a chaplain at Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital, part of Northwestern Medicine, learned that her daughter's Girl Scout Troop was working on a badge called "The Science of Happiness," she offered to lead the group on a tour of the hospital campus in Wheaton.

People may not automatically think of a rehabilitation hospital when asked to name a happy place.

But as Quetua explained Marianjoy was designed to care for the body, mind and spirit.

"The tour helped demonstrate how certain peaceful spaces and practices can help spark inner joy and peace, which have a direct impact on well-being," Quetua said.

The local troop, Wheaton Cadette Troop 51988, visited several "happiness" spaces on the Marianjoy campus, which is situated on 60 acres of native prairie with ancient oaks and wildlife. They walked the labyrinth, a winding pathway of concentric circles designed for reflection and quieting the mind. In the chapel, they participated in a loving-kindness meditation.

The troop learned additional mindfulness practices, including using a Mandala in the Meditation Room, which hosts a projected, full-color, wall-length Mandala. Then completed the visit with a shared meal in the Joyful Caf.

"In the labyrinth, I felt calm and focused as I was following the path. In the meditation room with the mandala and the essential oils, I felt entranced and at ease," said troop member Kelsey Fils. "Also, at the chapel, I felt at peace, and like I was the only person in the room."

For more than 40 years, Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital has been providing expert physical medicine and rehabilitation for a wide range of diagnoses, including brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, pain, orthopedic, musculoskeletal, neuromuscular and pediatric conditions. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology, clinicians deliver innovative, evidence-based treatment, maximizing recovery and promoting independence for patients.

The chapel, Meditation Room and labyrinth are available year-round to patients, visitors, staff and physicians. The labyrinth is closed during inclement weather.

To learn more about Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital, visit marianjoy.org or http://www.facebook.com/MarianjoyRehab/.

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Marianjoy chaplain helps Scouts with 'The Science of Happiness' project - Chicago Daily Herald