A Dose of Fun and Health at the Wellness Fair

Sunshine and the promise of better health brought out individuals and families of all ages to take part in the town's Wellness Fair which was held on Saturday at the Chelmsford .

Participants enjoyed healthy snacks, watched yoga and dance demonstrations and even lined up for the chance for a free chair massage. A variety of exhibitors ranging frrom local hospitals, health clubs as well as individual practitioners were on hand to answer questions, distribute free educational material and provide a variety of health screenings at no charge.

 Janice Ruell  was one of the many volunteers at the event. Ruell, who volunteers with the town's Bicyle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, was distributing surveys to help develop the plan for Chelmsford biking and walking paths.

"The surveys will be gathered and then used to help build the master plan for the town. The survey is also online at the town website if people want to submit their ideas," said Ruell.

One of the new services coming into Chelmsford was represented by Beth Rogan, an R.N. with the Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology. She was on hand to introduce the upcoming service of a helpline and "matching service" for people seeking guidance, counseling and mental health services.

"This is going to be a great resource for children and families who are seeking help in coping with a variety of issues ranging from bullying, anxiety, grief and loss and any mental health issue," said Rogan. "We will have a phone line staffed by mental health professionals who can help people find available services matched by their situation and even their insurance or ability or inability to pay."

For people looking for a bit of stress relief, Eric Carlson of My Healing Village was providing free chair massage.  Another popular place for participants was at the free refreshment table hosted by

"We've love being here," said Susan O'Keefe, registered dietician from Hannaford as  she handed out healthy food samples. "There's a new orange juice out which has very reduced sugar so it's wonderful for people who are concerned about sugar but still would like to drink organge juice."

In addition to all of the health related information tables, teens enjoyed volunteering by setting up and  greeting participants while young children had the chance to "touch" the fire trucks courtesy of the Chelmsford Fire Department.