The Health Benefits of Traditional Games in Mental Well-Being of BPE Students

This study explored how traditional Filipino games can support the mental well-being of Bachelor of Physical Education (BPE) students at Central Philippine Adventist College. In recent years, college students have increasingly faced mental health challenges linked to sedentary lifestyles and reduced physical and social activity. In response to this concern, the study sought to determine whether engaging in traditional games could positively influence students’ mental well-being. A quasi-experimental research design was employed involving ten (10) BPE students who participated in a traditional game intervention. Mental well-being was measured using the MHA Screening (2014) Anxiety Test administered before and after the intervention. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a paired sample t-test. The results showed a clear improvement in students’ mental well-being following participation in a traditional game. Both male and female participants demonstrated reduced anxiety levels in the post-test results. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant difference between pre-test and post-test scores (p < 0.05), leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. These findings indicated that traditional games contributed positively to mental well-being by encouraging physical movement, social interaction, and cultural engagement. Overall, the study concluded that traditional Filipino games are not only valuable practices that promotes Filipino values and preserves culture but also practical and cost-effective tools for promoting mental health among college students. Integrating traditional games into physical education programs may serve as a meaningful and holistic approach to enhancing student wellness.

traditional games, mental well-being, Bachelor of Physical Education

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