Real Journalism by Leeds Hacks

Leeds Beckett University holds its first well-being day

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Leeds Beckett University have run their first well-being day, which was led by the well-being team and business school Dean, Professor George Lodorfos.

The day began with Sarah Moore, a well-being manager, introducing the day and explaining its importance. She emphasised its relevance as many staff are now working from home but could be neglecting their mental health. Dean Lodorfos then took over the talk to further pledge the University’s commitment to looking after its staff.

The day was filled with various activities to help those partaking to de-stress. It began with a meditation session called a sound bath, in which an expert named Emma from We Are Wellness, which is based in Hyde Park, had everyone lay down on roll mats with their eyes shut while she led them through the meditation process and made sounds with drums and bowls. It was deeply therapeutic and calming.

Joseph Jacklin
Joseph Jacklin

Afterwards, the team from MomentToPaws, a group that brings dogs into office settings to help workers enjoy their time away from screens, set up in the Rose Bowl and was a huge success. With small cockapoos and a larger golden retriever with them, there was something for everyone.

Joseph Jacklin

People who’d never had dogs sit on them before said they interacted with the session well and felt safe and comfortable in the environment. For those who weren’t as keen, other meditation sessions were available and these included yoga and a sat-down meditation session.

Joseph Jacklin
Joseph Jacklin

To cap off the morning, there was a scavenger hunt, in which three teams had to follow clues that led them all over the city campus. The answers were all associated with ways of relaxing and reducing anxiety.

This activity appeared to unify the whole group. After speaking to those involved in the activity, it was obvious that the day in general was highly engaging and was making people think about what they could do to minimalise stress in all areas of their lives.

Joseph Jacklin
Joseph Jacklin

Professor Lodorfos was present throughout the day, highlighting his commitment to improving working relations with his staff and an interest in supporting his own mental health.

Joseph Jacklin
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