We gathered at the University of Guelph for an interactive and engaging workshop centered around, adjusting to university life, confronting anxiety and stressors regarding this transition, navigating roommate relationships and maintaining balance between school and social life.

First year students shared their thoughts and experiences with the collective group and engaged in open dialogue in a safe and welcoming environment. We were honoured to have Professor Deanna Behnke-Cook present at this event. Dr. Behnke-Cook is an award-winning lecturer, inspirational speaker on resiliency, grit and integrity and a support coach for youth. Dr.Behnke-Cook delivered an empowering speech on the importance of believing in yourself, not letting others speak fear or doubt onto you and reminded students it’s not important to strive for perfection but strive excellence instead.

We then facilitated a workshop breakout session where students were engaged and given the opportunity to share their thoughts and opinions regarding this transition. We asked students:

1. What are some powerful affirmations that can help deal with negative thoughts and feelings related to academic anxiety and stress?
2. What are some things that you do or would consider doing to cope when you are feeling homesick or lonely?
3. What does a respectful roommate relationship look like to you?
4. What does balance mean to you at university?

It was so heartwarming to witness the students who initially appeared timid, break out of their shells and use their voice to share their ideas. Besides this we also had a compelling video from the Charity Founder, Srinivas Arka who weighed in on the discussion and shared some insight for the students. We prepared Mr. Arka with two important questions:

1. How do you personally define a “balanced life” and why is it important?
2. How do you navigate the uncertainty or discomfort of new and unfamiliar surroundings?

Here are a few quotes from Srinivas Arka’s responses:
“We must develop receptivity to hear our inner voice.”
“If everything is smooth, then there isn’t any learning, excitement, and improvement.”
“We have to go with that flow, then we glow, then we grow.”

We had an intuitive meditation demonstration by CCA-Canada that gave youth a taste of this meditational method to improve their mental health.

Throughout the event attendees participated in a fun, light-hearted icebreaker, they played an exciting game of Kahoot where they were able to win prizes from two amazing local businesses, Body and Face Spa Guelph donated a gift card for the students and Chocolats Favoris – Guelph donated a beautiful gift basked with an array of treats. We ended the day with a lovely intuitive meditation demonstration, some closing statements and a light, healthy dinner.

This event was engulfed with inspiration, thoughtful conversation and a deep sense of community togetherness. Most importantly we witnessed attendee’s come together with a shared purpose of growing in their mental wellness journey.