The programme began on Monday with registration and a guided tour of the city, offering participants the opportunity to discover Trnava and get to know one another. Tuesday was dedicated to talks and discussions on mental health and well-being, which formed the central theme of the festival. One particularly relevant topic was the influence of social media on the mental health of younger generations. We reflected on how much time we spend online, how social media shapes our everyday lives, and why it is increasingly important to create a healthier balance. The discussions highlighted the value of stepping away from our screens, spending more time in nature, and making genuine connections with the people around us. These conversations resonated with me, especially considering the significant role social media plays in the lives of students today. In the afternoon, we took part in a series of workshops exploring different approaches to mental health and personal well-being. The sessions covered topics such as meditation and relaxation, music therapy, art therapy, and psychology. I attended workshops on meditation and relaxation as well as art and psychology. The meditation session was particularly engaging, as it involved practical exercises that allowed us to experience different relaxation techniques ourselves. It was an interesting opportunity to explore how mindfulness and creative approaches can contribute to our overall well-being. Wednesday brought a completely different energy to the programme, with an entire day dedicated to games, interaction, and fun activities. It was undoubtedly one of my favourite days of the festival. Beyond simply having fun, the activities provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with other participants, strengthen friendships, and enjoy the experience of being part of an international student community. It was a reminder that social interaction, laughter, and shared experiences are also essential elements of mental health and well-being. On Thursday, the programme continued with further talks and presentations, including contributions from students themselves. This created an opportunity for participants to share their ideas, experiences, and perspectives, while learning from one another. Hearing different student voices and approaches to well-being made the discussions even more meaningful and highlighted the importance of open conversations about mental health. To conclude the festival, Friday was dedicated to excursions, allowing participants to explore more of Slovakia. While one group travelled to Bratislava, I joined the excursion to Banská Štiavnica. The town was one of the highlights of my trip. With its beautiful historic architecture, charming streets, and almost fairytale like atmosphere, Banská Štiavnica was an unforgettable place to visit. It was a wonderful way to end the week and experience another side of Slovakia. Looking back, the Eco Heritage and Well-being student festival was a truly enriching and enjoyable experience. While the workshops and discussions gave me new perspectives on mental health and the importance of well-being in student life, the informal activities and cultural excursions made the week equally memorable. My favourite moments were undoubtedly the interactive activities on Wednesday and the excursion to the picturesque town of Banská Štiavnica on Friday. Most importantly, the festival reminded me of the importance of taking time for ourselves, finding balance in an increasingly digital world, reconnecting with nature, and building meaningful relationships with others. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been part of this international experience through KreativEU and to have shared such a memorable week with students from different backgrounds and cultures.
Eco Heritage and Well-being: A Week of Learning, Connection and Cultural Exchange in Trnava, Slovakia
