Healthy body, healthy mind – Workshops for improving young people’s well-being

In this 8-part series, we will explore together how we can take care of our bodies and minds with small steps. The workshops are interactive, accessible to young people, without complicated theories – full of practical exercises, discussions, and experiences. They are intended for all young people, especially those who face limited opportunities or are looking for balance in their everyday lives.

The series of workshops was created with the support of the Association for the Integration of Roma Women Loli Luludi.

🕔 Wednesdays at 5 p.m., duration: 1.5 hours

✅ Participation is free of charge!

WORKSHOP SCHEDULE (WEDNESDAYS, APRIL and MAY 2025)

Workshop 1 – What does a healthy lifestyle mean?

📅 Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 5 p.m.

In the introductory workshop, we will learn about the basic pillars of a healthy lifestyle: exercise, nutrition, sleep, rest, and mental health. We will discuss what supports us and what drains our energy. Participants will be able to share their challenges, set goals, and start creating their personal plan for change.

Workshop 2  – Movement as medicine

📅 Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 5 p.m.

Together, we will explore how we can incorporate more movement into our daily lives—without a gym or expensive equipment. The workshop will be practical, covering everything from light exercises to relaxation and stretching exercises. We will learn simple ways to stay active even in a small space or without financial resources.

Workshop 3 – Food as fuel (and pleasure)

📅 Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 5 p.m.

What should we eat to have more energy and feel better? We will talk about balanced nutrition, emotional eating, sugar, and inexpensive but healthy choices. We will learn how to recognize hunger and how to prepare healthy meals at home. The workshop will also include the preparation or tasting of a simple healthy snack.

Workshop 4 – Sleep and rest for regeneration

📅 Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 5 p.m.

Sleep affects everything: mood, memory, motivation. How can we get better sleep, even if we have a restless mind or irregular rhythm? Together, we will explore techniques for relaxation before bedtime, the importance of evening routines, and how to help ourselves when we suffer from insomnia. Practical exercises will include breathing and visualization.

Workshop 5 – Stress under control

📅 Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 5 p.m.

Stress is part of life, but it doesn’t have to overwhelm us. We will learn to recognize the physical and emotional signs of stress and how to reduce it with manageable techniques. We will practice mindfulness exercises, basic breathing techniques, and create daily micro-breaks for better well-being.

Workshop 6 – Digital detox and screen addiction

📅 Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 5 p.m.

Phones, social media, video games—how much is too much? In this workshop, we’ll learn about our habits, recognize addiction, and find balance. Participants will get tools for managing digital time and ideas for finding alternatives to screens that don’t wear us out.

Workshop 7 – When anxiety strikes (and what can I do about it)

📅 Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 5 p.m.

Anxiety is becoming increasingly common among young people. In this workshop, we will create a safe space for discussion, recognizing symptoms, and sharing coping strategies. We will learn basic techniques for self-calming, physical stabilization, and guided breathing for moments when we feel tightness in our chest.

Workshop 8 – The power of community and everyday habits

📅 Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 5 p.m.

At the end, we will look back at everything we have learned and prepare our own “health compass.” We will discuss the role of friends, groups, and a supportive environment in maintaining change. The workshop will conclude with a symbolic ceremony called “what I take with me” and a plan for the future.

🎯 Participation is free of charge, but places are limited – register as soon as possible!

📧 Registration and information: epeka@epeka.si

📍 Where? EPEKA Association, Gorkega ulica 34, Maribor

The EPEKA youth program is co-financed by: Office of the Republic of Slovenia for Youth, The City Municipality of Maribor and Erasmus+.