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Workshops and Programming
We encourage you to take a proactive, preventative approach to your wellness and learn tips and techniques to help you stay physically and mentally well. We have both in-person workshops and online workshops for you to enjoy. All programming is free for Laurier students.
Wellness Education Certificate
Demonstrate your commitment to health and wellness, while learning skills and enhancing your Laurier Experience Record with the Wellness Education Certificate.
You can earn the certificate by attending five required wellness education activities and completing a short reflection on their learning.
After you complete the one core workshop plus four electives, apply for the Wellness Education Certificate on Navigator for inclusion on your Laurier Experience Record.
Fall 2025 Programming
Wellness Orientation De-Stressor
Sept. 2, 7 – 10 p.m. | Waterloo | P111
Sept. 3, 7 – 9 p.m. | Brantford | One Market
Need a break from the excitement and overwhelm of Orientation? Drop in and de-stress with the Wellness Education team! Enjoy snacks, herbal tea, relaxing crafts, while making social connections in a space with calm vibes. Have a question about wellness resources? Ask our team!
Get Involved Fair
Sept. 4, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Brantford | One Market Atrium
Sept. 5, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Waterloo | The Quad
Between your classes come check out the Get Involved Fair (GIF) and all it has to offer! The GIF is made up of student clubs and committees, Laurier departments and community partners. Learn how you can get involved at Laurier by connecting with some of the groups present. Come for the FREE swag, stay for the FUN!
Make and Take Mason Jar Meals
Sept. 9, 2 – 3 p.m. | Brantford | The Nook, Level 1 Lounge | Register in Advance
Join us to make a mason jar meal. We will connect and learn about food, nutrition, food security, meal preparation, and resources on campus. You will take away a meal with you to help you stay nourished! There will be vegan, gluten-free, and halal options available. There are limited spots, so please register in advance, or spots are available on a first come, first serve basis. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Learn to Bake Your Own Bread
Sept. 10, 4 – 5 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Drop-in
You can bake your own loaf of bread at home, with only five ingredients for less than a dollar a loaf! Join us for a hands-on workshop where you'll make your own bread to bake at home the next day. Spaces are limited and available on a first come, first serve basis. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
SafeTALK
Sept. 17, 1 - 4:30 p.m. | Waterloo | P119
SafeTALK is a three-hour face-to-face workshop designed to prepare anyone to identify persons with thoughts of suicide and connect them directly to a trained helper. This workshop is led by a skilled, supportive SafeTALK trainer, who incorporates video clips, discussion, and practice to help you learn these important skills. Learn more about the SafeTALK training program. You must attend the entire session to earn the certificate. This is being offered for free to all Laurier students.
Update: This workshop is now full; please email wellness@wlu.ca to join the wait list.
Create Your Own Mossy Terrarium
Sept. 18, 5 – 6 p.m. | Brantford | The Nook, Level 1 Lounge | Register in Advance
Join the Peer Wellness Educators to create terrariums in a glass jar! Terrariums are plants and miniature scenes within glass containers. We will learn about creativity, environmental wellness, and de-stress as we create our own greenspace. Please register in advance as there are limited spots available. You can also come without registering first on a first come, first served basis. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Taking Charge of Your Wellness
Sept. 19, 1 - 2 p.m. | Virtual | Register in Advance
Learn about holistic wellness, and how you can take a proactive, preventative approach to build wellness in each of the seven dimensions of wellness. This workshop is led by Samantha, the Wellness Education Assistant, and is the core workshops required to complete our Wellness Education Certificate.
Eating for Well-being
Sept. 24, 7 – 8 p.m. | Virtual | Register in Advance
Food, mood, and learning are all closely linked, but when you're short on time and money it can be difficult to meal plan and prep for success. This workshop will provide you with practical strategies you can start using immediately to overcome common barriers to nutrition as a student so you can keep your body fueled and brain sharp! This workshop is led by Claire, the Wellness Education Coordinator, and counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Mason Jar Meals
Sept. 23, 3 – 4 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Register in Advance
Join us to make a mason jar meal. We will connect and learn about food, nutrition, food security, meal preparation, and resources on campus. You will take away a meal with you to help you stay nourished! There will be vegan, gluten-free, and halal options available. Spaces are limited and available on a first come, first serve basis. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Finding Food in Brantford
Sept. 26, noon – 1 p.m. | Brantford | OM 206-30 | Drop-in
Not sure where to find food in Brantford that's close to campus? Not sure what to buy, or what to do when you have the ingredients? We've got you! Come with us for a walking tour of close-to-campus food gems! There is limited space for up to 10 students. Please note, we will be moving and standing for about 30-40 minutes during this event.
Mental Health Nature Walk
Sept. 26, noon – 1 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Drop-in
Step away from your screens and join us for a guided walk in nature designed to refresh your mind and support your mental health. Together, we’ll slow down, notice our surroundings, and practice simple mindfulness techniques while exploring the outdoors. This experience is less about exercise and more about reconnecting with nature, reducing stress, and finding calm in the middle of a busy semester. No prior experience needed — just bring comfortable shoes and an open mind.
The Joy of Creativity
Sept. 30, 2 – 3 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Drop-in
Join us for The Joy of Creativity, a hands-on workshop that explores how making art can boost mental health, reduce stress, and foster a sense of community. Guided by principles of art therapy, participants will experiment with playful creative exercises — no artistic skill required. Together, we’ll discover the power of process over product, the calming effects of flow, and simple ways to weave creativity into everyday life as a wellness practice. All supplies provided. Spaces are limited and available on first come, first serve basis. This workshop is led by Sarina, the Manager of Wellness Education, and counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
De-Stress with Dogs
Sept. 30, 2 – 3 p.m. | Brantford | Multipurpose Room, Student Centre Building | Drop-in
Take a break and join us for our 'Destress with Dogs' event tailored just for you. Spend quality time with these adorable therapy dogs, pet away your worries, and find some time to relax. Don't miss this pawsome opportunity to de-stress and recharge!
Taking Charge of Your Wellness
Oct. 3, 11 a.m. - noon | Waterloo | P111 | Register in Advance
Learn about holistic wellness, and how you can take a proactive, preventative approach to build wellness in each of the seven dimensions of wellness. This workshop is led by Samantha, the Wellness Education Assistant, and is the core workshops required to complete our Wellness Education Certificate.
Self-Care for Student Leaders
Oct. 7, 11 a.m. - noon | Waterloo | P111 | Register in Advance
For any student balancing academics with work, volunteer commitments, or other responsibilities, self-care is crucial for effective leadership and overall wellbeing. Learn how to identify your own stressors, learn stress reduction techniques, and develop your own personal self-care plan. This workshop is led by Samantha, Manager of Wellness Education, and counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Digital Wellness: Exploring FOMO and Strategies for Digital Detox
Oct. 8, 3 - 4 p.m. | Brantford | OM 209 | No Registration Required
In this interactive workshop, we will learn about digital wellness and the impacts of technology in our lives. We will explore the fear of missing out (FOMO), the impacts on our health and well-being of technology use, and strategies to take a digital detox during reading week. You will develop real-life strategies to support your digital wellness throughout your postsecondary journey. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Mental Health Nature Walk
Oct. 20, 1 - 2 p.m. | Brantford | OM 206-30 | No Registration Required
Step away from your screens and join the Peer Wellness Educators for a guided walk in nature, designed to refresh your mind and support your mental health. Together, we’ll slow down, notice our surroundings, and practice simple mindfulness techniques while exploring the outdoors. This experience is less about exercise and more about reconnecting with nature, reducing stress, and finding calm in the middle of a busy semester. No prior experience needed — just bring comfortable shoes and an open mind. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
The Balance Myth for Graduate Students
Oct. 21, 3 - 4 p.m. | Virtual | Register in Advance
In this workshop, we will explore the concept of balance in all areas of our lives. We will talk about the roots of balance, whether perfect balance is a myth, and will develop skills and strategies to make balance work for you. This workshop is for graduate students only. It is eligible for the Aspire Certificate.
Lavender Tea and Tranquility
Oct. 22, 1 - 2 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Register in Advance
Join the Peer Wellness Educators and make your own take-home tea bags with herbs like lavender, rose, and chamomile. While creating your tea, we’ll also be sampling herbal teas, and sharing fun and practical facts about the soothing aroma and natural compounds in teas can be your new calming bedtime ritual to relax, calm nerves, and support better sleep. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate. Snacks provided!
Pumpkins and Paint Party
Oct. 22, 7 - 8 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Register in Advance
Pumpkins aren’t just for decoration—they’re delicious too! Join the Peer Wellness Educators for a cozy fall-inspired workshop where you’ll get your own mini pumpkin to take home and eat, with some tasty, easy recipes. After exploring the edible side of pumpkins, stick around for a creative paint party with mini canvases. Leave with new skills, your own pumpkin, and a piece of art to brighten your space. Snacks provided!
Building Better Balance
Oct. 23, 10:00 a.m. - Noon | Brantford | Student Commons
Are you finding it difficult to find that work-life balance and stay on top of all your priorities? Drop by our booth, to learn about balance and strategies and resources to stop the pressure, stay well and find balance in our lives.
Make Your Own Trail Mix
Oct. 23, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Drop-in
Drop in and create your own travel-ready snack to keep you fueled. Whether you're craving something savoury, sweet, or salty, we'll have options for you! Have a question about staying well? Ask the Peer Wellness Educators!
Write to Wellness
Oct. 27, 1 - 2 p.m. | Waterloo | P119 | Drop-in
Take a mindful pause with the Peer Wellness Educators. This workshop will introduce journaling as a simple but effective way to reduce stress, practice gratitude, boost self-awareness, and bring more focus and productivity to your day. We'll share different journaling techniques and prompts. Participants will receive their own mini journal to take home. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate. Spaces are limited and available on a first come, first serve basis. Snacks provided!
How to Have a Happier Period
Oct. 29, 11 a.m. - noon | Waterloo | P111 | Register in Advance
Let's face it: periods are a natural part of life, but they can be a real pain! Join the Wellness Education team for a supportive, informative, and empowering workshop with practical tips to make your cycle easier - physically, mentally, environmentally, and financially. Walk away with strategies, resources, and ideas to help you feel more comfortable and confident each month. Whether you're a menstruator or not, everyone is welcome to join. This workshop is run by Sarina, Manager of Wellness Education, and counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate. Snacks provided, and all attendees will have their name entered to win a prize of a reusable latex cup!
Party Safe
Oct. 29, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. | Brantford | OM 206-30 | Drop-in
Join us at the Party Safe booth to learn all about harm reduction and staying safe while partying. We will have fun trivia, activities, and snacks!
Physical Wellness 101
Oct. 30, 1 - 2 p.m. | Virtual | Register in Advance
Have you ever wondered, what is part of physical wellness? In this interactive workshop, we will explore important areas in physical wellness, like staying well during cold and flu season, importance of movement and nutrition, and sexual health. You will bust myths and develop practical tips and strategies to support our physical wellness. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Thrive Week
Nov. 3 - 7th | Waterloo, Brantford, Milton, Virtual
Thrive is a weeklong series of free events to boost wellness on campus. No matter where you are in your journey, whether you are thriving or surviving, we are here to support you and your wellness. We want to help you explore your path to mental well-being, so you can Thrive at Laurier with healthy habits and self-care skills.
Wellness Trivia
Nov. 11, 10 a.m. to Noon | Brantford | OM 206-30 | Drop-in
Spin the wheel and test your knowledge on all things wellness. Snacks and swag to be won! Have a question about staying well at Laurier? Ask the Peer Wellness Educators!
Wellness in Motion
Nov. 13, 3 to 4 p.m. | Brantford | Studio B, LBYMCA | Arrive on-time
Join us for an engaging event that promotes physical wellness through fun exercises and practical tips! Discover how staying active can boost your focus, energy, and academic success. Learn strategies to keep your body moving and mind sharp. Let's move towards a healthier, balanced student life together. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
SafeTALK
Nov. 13, 1 - 4:30 p.m. | Waterloo | P119 | Register in Advance
SafeTALK is a three-hour face-to-face workshop designed to prepare anyone to identify persons with thoughts of suicide and connect them directly to a trained helper. This workshop is led by a skilled, supportive SafeTALK trainer, who incorporates video clips, discussion, and practice to help you learn these important skills. Learn more about the SafeTALK training program. You must attend the entire session to earn the certificate. This is being offered for free to all Laurier students.
Disconnect and Reconnect
Nov. 17, 1 to 2 p.m. | Brantford | Outside OM 206-30 | Drop-in
Take a mindful break with disconnect and reconnect - a fun booth-based activity promoting the digital health and balance! Spin the colorful wheel, answer engaging questions, and learn how phone impact your well-being. Enjoy free snacks and fidget toys, and discover ways to unplug and recharge your mind.
Melt Away Your Stress
Nov. 17, 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Register in Advance
Join the Peer Wellness Educators for a hands-on workshop where you'll create your own custom aromatherapy candle using calming essential oils, perfect for helping you create a relaxation ritual. While your candle sets, learn simple and effective stress management strategies. This workshop offers the perfect mix of crafting, calm, and connection. Snacks provided! This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Taking Charge of Your Wellness
Nov. 18, 11 a.m. - Noon | Brantford | RCW 324 | Arrive on-time
Learn about holistic wellness, and how you can take a proactive, preventative approach to build wellness in each of the seven dimensions of wellness. This workshop is led by Arshdeep, the Wellness Education Assistant, and is the core workshops required to complete our Wellness Education Certificate.
Matcha and Mindfulness
Nov. 19, 1 - 2 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Register in Advance
Join the Peer Wellness Educators for a calming hour dedicated to exploring how mindful rituals — like preparing and sipping matcha — can boost focus, reduce stress, and support your well-being. We’ll talk about caffeine, mental health, and how small, mindful habits can bring balance to a busy student life — all while enjoying a delicious matcha treat! Snacks Provided. This workshop counts toward the Wellness Education Certificate.
How to Have a Happier Period
Nov. 20, 2 to 3 p.m. | Brantford | OM 207-3 | Arrive on-time
Let's face it: periods are a natural part of life, but they can be a real pain! Join the Wellness Education team for a supportive, informative, and empowering workshop with practical tips to make your cycle easier - physically, mentally, environmentally, and financially. Walk away with strategies, resources, and ideas to help you feel more comfortable and confident each month. Whether you're a menstruator or not, everyone is welcome to join. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate. Snacks provided, and all attendees will have their name entered to win a prize of a reusable latex cup!
Nourishing Relationships with Supportive Communication Strategies -
for Graduate Students
Nov. 20, 5 - 6 p.m. | Virtual | Register in Advance
In this workshop, we will learn about building and nourishing our relationships so they are sustainable, as well as supportive communication strategies. Relationships including friendships, romantic relationships, and supervisor relationships will be explored. This program is only for current graduate students. This is eligible for the Aspire Certificate.
Make and Take Mason Jar Meal
Nov. 24, 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Register in Advance
Join us to make a mason jar meal. We will connect and learn about food, nutrition, food security, meal preparation, and resources on campus. You will take away a meal with you to help you stay nourished! There will be vegan, gluten-free, and halal options available. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Brain Break and Study
Nov. 25, 3 to 4 p.m. | Brantford | Multi-purpose Room (Student Centre Building) | Arrive on-time
Join our Wellness Study Session, a relaxing space to study and learning the importance of mindful breaks. Discover how small breaks can help you recharge your energy, refresh your mind and makes studying more balanced! This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Taking Charge of Your Wellness
Nov. 25, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. | Virtual | Register in Advance
Learn about holistic wellness, and how you can take a proactive, preventative approach to build wellness in each of the seven dimensions of wellness. This workshop is led by Arshdeep, the Wellness Education Assistant, and is the core workshops required to complete our Wellness Education Certificate.
Nailed It! Self-Care Social and Hot Chocolate Bar
Nov. 25, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Drop-In
Treat yourself to some "me time" with a fun and relaxing drop-in social, hosted by the Peer Wellness Educators. Enjoy nail painting, face masks, gratitude journals, snacks and hot chocolate, while connecting with others, and learning how to create your own self-care routine at home. You deserve it!
Digital Wellness
Nov. 26, 3 - 4 p.m. | Waterloo | P111 | Register in Advance
In this interactive workshop, we will learn about digital wellness and the impacts of technology in our lives. We will explore the fear of missing out (FOMO), the impacts on our health and well-being of technology use, and strategies to take a digital detox. You will develop real-life strategies to support your digital wellness throughout your postsecondary journey. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate.
Scroll Smart
Nov. 27, 3 - 4 p.m. | Virtual | Register in Advance
Have you ever found yourself scrolling, and caught up in some health information that is too good to be true? Join us to learn about health misinformation, social media portrayals of wellness, and the impact that it has our lives. You will develop strategies to begin recognizing health misinformation, and to stay well while in online spaces. This workshop is eligible for the Wellness Education Certificate.
Programming coming soon!
Share Your Thoughts
Did you attend a previous workshop and want to share your thoughts? Use our workshop feedback form. There are prizes to be won! Every Fall and Winter, one submission is randomly selected to win a prize. We always appreciate feedback so let us know what you would like to see from us in the future.