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.
The Wellness Education Certificate will be back in the Winter 2025 term!
Explore:
Upcoming Online Workshops and Programming
Online workshops are:
- Available through Zoom and require registration in advance; however links will automatically be sent to your student email upon registration.
- Open to all students at all campuses.
- In Eastern Standard Time (EST).
Make sure you use your student email address in order to access these workshops.
Expectations for Online Workshops:- Please be on time. Participants will not be admitted into workshops 10 minutes after start time
- Participation is encouraged and using the chat or your mic is welcomed; please keep yourself muted when not speaking
- Be respectful of opinions shared and given and stay on topic
- Please do not share information about others outside of the workshop
- Please do not record workshops
- Please attend workshops from a space where you can be engaged, present, and undistracted
Social Media and Mental Health
Sept. 24, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Register in Advance
This workshop will address how social media affects mental health. It will give particular attention to the impact of social media and the news, and it will discuss strategies for managing stress and setting healthy boundaries. This workshop is run by Lauren, a clinical counsellor from the Student Wellness Centre and counts as an elective toward the Wellness Education Certificate.
Self-Compassion
Oct. 22, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Register in Advance
Do you find it difficult to turn off the critical voice inside your head? Drop in to learn how to practice self-compassion to improve your mood, increase your resiliency and motivation, and feel more comfortable with yourself overall. This workshops is run by Heather, a counsellor from the Student Wellness Centre and counts as an elective toward the Wellness Education Certificate.
Resiliency in Stressful Times
Nov. 4, 2 to 3 p.m. Register in Advance
This workshop walks you through the outcomes of research on what the vital variables are that distinguish between people who thrive vs. struggle during stressful times. It offers specific tools to support the growth and development of these traits, leaving you with concrete skills to start building your resilience today. This workshop is led by Abby Becks, Manager of Counselling, and counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate program.
Neuroplasticity: Learn How to Rewire Your Brain for Joy and Success
Nov. 6, 7 to 8 p.m. Register in Advance
Neuroplasticity is the brain’s capacity to continue growing and evolving in response to life experiences. In this interactive workshop, you will learn how to shift mindset for growth, behaviours, and emotions in order boost your wellbeing and achieve your goals! You will discover how to develop positive thinking, overcome obstacles, and tap into your brain's capacity for growth and resilience using specific tips and scientific discoveries. Uncover the tools you need to make long-term changes and thrive in both your educational and personal lives! This workshop is led by Jasmine Kapoor, fourth year psychology and neuroscience student, and Mental Health Education Assistant. This workshop counts as an elective in the Wellness Education Certificate program.
Positivity in Practice
Nov. 12, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Register in Advance
Learn about Positive Psychology and the secrets to increasing positive emotions, decreasing negativity, and creating daily satisfaction. Practical exercises and strategies will be the focus of this workshop, so that you come away with tools to foster a positive and growth oriented mindset. This workshop is run by Chris, a clinical counsellor from the Student Wellness Centre and counts as an elective toward the Wellness Education Certificate.
Exam and Performance Anxiety
Nov. 26, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Register in Advance
Learn ways to handle performance anxiety, improve your mental game, and find inner calm during midterms and exams. This workshop will also address the additional stresses caused by online exams. This workshop is run by Victoria, a clinical counsellor from the Student Wellness Centre and counts as an elective toward the Wellness Education Certificate.
Brantford Breakfast Bar
9:30-11:30 a.m. | Drop-in while supplies last | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)- Sept. 10 & 11
- Sept. 17 & 18
- Sept. 24 & 25
Grab some breakfast on your way to class, connect with your peers, and learn about wellness. Free for Laurier and Conestoga students. There will be vegan, gluten-free, and halal options available. Brought to you by Wellness Education and the Dean of Students Office.
Fresh Fruit Friday
10:00 a.m. - noon | Drop-in while supplies last | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)- Sept. 13
- Sept. 20
- Sept. 27
Stop by the Wellness Hub (OM 206-30) and pick up a fresh piece of fruit to fuel your mind and body! Have questions about wellness resources at Laurier? Chat with the Wellness Education team!
Get Involved Fair
Sept. 5, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. | Drop-in | RCW Courtyard
Join Wellness Education at the Get Involved Fair, part of Laurier's Orientation. You will get to learn about wellness services and resources, and pick up some swag!
Get to know the Student Wellness Centre: Medical Team
Sept. 11, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. | Drop-in | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)
Join us in the Wellness Hub (OM 206-30), to get to know the medical team at the Student Wellness Centre! This is the team that will help you with your medical needs here at university. You will learn about the services available at Laurier, and how you can access them, as well as some tips to help you stay well.
Get to Know the Student Wellness Centre: Counselling Team
Sept. 12, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. | Drop-in | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)
Join us in the Wellness Hub (OM 206-30), to get to know the counselling team at the Student Wellness Centre! This is the team that will help you with any mental health needs here at university. You will learn about the services available to students, how you can access them, as well as some tips to help you stay well.
All About Financial Wellness
Sept. 17, 12:30 to 4 p.m. | Drop-in | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)
Join Wellness Education and Dollars and Sense to learn more about financial wellness. We will be sharing resources on building your financial wellness as a student. There will be snacks available!
Dungeons and Dragons 101
Sept. 18, 7 to 8:30 p.m. | OM 207-1 | Register in Advance
Learn Dungeons and Dragons game basics, tips and tricks and get prepped to join our beginners campaign or start / join your own. We will go over key rules and game concepts as well as talk on how the game improves your wellness and allows for increased social interactions. After the discussion we will walk through character creation so you can have one prepped for your next game!
Ditch the Darts: Promoting a Smoke-Free Laurier
Sept. 19, 1 to 3 p.m. | Drop-in | Level 1 Lounge
Join us for an engaging afternoon at Ditch the Darts: Promoting a Smoke-Free Laurier! Hosted by the Dean of Students Office and Wellness Education, this event is designed to raise awareness about Laurier’s smoke-free policy and provide valuable smoking cessation resources. There will be trivia, games, freebies and resources! Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a healthier campus community. We look forward to seeing you there and supporting each other in creating a smoke-free Laurier!
Art Jam
Sept. 24, 1 to 4 p.m. | Drop-in | RCW Lobby
Wellness Education supports the Sexual Violence Response Team's annual "Art Jam" for We Believe Survivors day, as part of Consent Awareness Week. Art Jam offers students the opportunity to engage in arts and crafts, enjoy snacks, and access valuable information on campus and community resources and so much more!
Beat the Randomizer
Sept. 26, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. | Drop-in | OM 207a (Academic Advising Reception, outside Student Commons)
Come test your skills against the Randomizer on Thursday, September 26 from 1:30 pm – 3:30pm. The Responsible Gambling Council is presenting its new program the Randomizer for young adults with an interactive kiosk, specially staffed display and fantastic giveaways including three scholarship awards. Drop by, say hello and see if you have the skills to #BeatTheRandomizer!
Brantford Breakfast Bar
9:30-11:30 a.m. | Drop-in while supplies last | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)- Oct. 1 & 2
- Oct. 8 & 9
- Oct. 22 & 23
- Oct. 29 & 30
Grab some breakfast on your way to class, connect with your peers, and learn about wellness. Free for Laurier and Conestoga students. There will be vegan, gluten-free, and halal options available. Brought to you by Wellness Education and the Dean of Students Office.
Fresh Fruit Friday
10:00 a.m. - noon | Drop-in while supplies last | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)- Oct. 4
- Oct. 11
- Oct. 25
Stop by the Wellness Hub (OM 206-30) and pick up a fresh piece of fruit to fuel your mind and body! Have questions about wellness resources at Laurier? Chat with the Wellness Education team!
De-Stress with Dogs
Oct. 8, 2 to 3 p.m. | Sign-up for a Time slot | Multipurpose Room (Student Centre Building)
Feeling overwhelmed with coursework and exams? Take a break and join us for our 'Destress with Dogs' event tailored just for you. Spend quality time with our adorable therapy dogs, pet away your worries, and find some relaxation amidst the semester's hustle and bustle. Don't miss this pawsome opportunity to de-stress and recharge! Didn't register for a time slot? You are also welcome to drop-in, depending on space available.
Fall Into Self-Care
Oct. 23, 7 to 8 p.m. | Drop-in | Level 1 Lounge
As the leaves turn gold and the air becomes crisp, it’s the perfect time to recharge by immersing yourself in a cozy atmosphere of self-care practices including face masks, manicures, and bracelet-making. Come relax, enjoy some snacks, and Fall Into Self-Care in the Level One Lounge at One Market.
Truth or Dare: Pour Decisions
Oct. 31, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. | Drop-in | Level 1 Lounge
Join Wellness Education and the Dean of Students Office for a fun and educational afternoon at Truth or Dare: Pour Decisions! Put your knowledge to the test with trivia focused on responsible partying, alcohol awareness, and healthy choices, all while participating in lively activities that guarantee a great time. You'll also have the opportunity to win sweet prizes throughout the event. So grab your friends, bring your competitive spirit, and come enjoy an afternoon filled with fun, learning, and treats!
Brantford Breakfast Bar
9:30-11:30 a.m. | Drop-in while supplies last | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)- Nov. 5 & 6
- Nov. 12 & 13
- Nov. 19 & 20
- Nov. 26 & 27
Grab some breakfast on your way to class, connect with your peers, and learn about wellness. Free for Laurier and Conestoga students. There will be vegan, gluten-free, and halal options available. Brought to you by Wellness Education and the Dean of Students Office.
Fresh Fruit Friday
10:00 a.m. - noon | Drop-in while supplies last | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)- Nov. 1
- Nov. 8
- Nov. 15
- Nov. 22
- Nov. 29
Stop by the Wellness Hub (OM 206-30) and pick up a fresh piece of fruit to fuel your mind and body! Have questions about wellness resources at Laurier? Chat with the Wellness Education team!
Thrive Week
Nov. 4-8 | In-person and Online | Across Campus
Thrive is a weeklong series of free events to build positive mental health 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.
Behind the Bet: Risks and Realities of Sports Gambling
Nov. 19, 1:30 to 3 p.m. | Drop-in | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)
Join the YMCA to learn more about gambling, explore the different types of sports betting options (e.g. betting on traditional sports games, esports betting, and participating in Daily Fantasy Sports), the wide stream media exposure, the sports betting content on social media, and its impact on youth. We will also share support services available in the community in regards to mental health and problem gambling. You can also enter a raffle and win a swag bag!
Mental Health Booth: Good2Talk
Nov. 21, 2 to 4 p.m. | Drop-in | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)
Join Good2Talk in the Wellness Hub (OM 206-30) to learn about their services. We will also be sharing resources about mental health and wellness as you head into your last midterms and exams. There will be snacks available!
De-Stress with Dogs
Nov. 26, 3 to 4 p.m. | Drop-in | Multipurpose Room
Feeling overwhelmed with coursework and exams? Take a break and join us for our 'Destress with Dogs' event tailored just for you. Spend quality time with our adorable therapy dogs, pet away your worries, and find some relaxation amidst the semester's hustle and bustle. Don't miss this pawsome opportunity to de-stress and recharge!
Knowing Yourself: Exploring your Values and its Importance for Graduate School
Nov. 28, 11 a.m. to Noon | Drop-in | DOS Board Room (OM 207-47)
Calling all Graduate students! Knowing yourself, and your values, helps connect you with why you are doing your degree, and helps you make decisions in line with your values. Join us for this interactive workshop, where we will explore why it is important to know your values, and how to get to know yourself and your values. You will come away from the workshop with an understanding of how your values informs your graduate student journey, how it helps with staying well during stressful times, and tangible strategies.
Brantford Breakfast Bar
Dec. 3 & 4, 9:30-11:30 a.m. | Drop-in while supplies last | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30)Grab some breakfast on your way to class, connect with your peers, and learn about wellness. Free for Laurier and Conestoga students. There will be vegan, gluten-free, and halal options available. Brought to you by Wellness Education and the Dean of Students Office.
Fresh Fruit Friday
Dec. 6, 10:00 a.m. - noon | Drop-in while supplies last | Wellness Hub (OM 206-30Stop by the Wellness Hub (OM 206-30) and pick up a fresh piece of fruit to fuel your mind and body! Have questions about wellness resources at Laurier? Chat with the Wellness Education team!
Get Involved Fair
Sept. 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Drop-in | The Quad
Join Wellness Education at the Get Involved Fair, part of Laurier's Orientation. You will get to learn about wellness services and resources, and pick up some swag!
All About Financial Wellness
Sept. 19, 12:30 to 4 p.m. | Drop-in | P111
Join Wellness Education and Dollars and Sense to learn more about financial wellness. We will be sharing resources on building your financial wellness as a student. There will be snacks available!
Fresh Fruit Friday
10:00 a.m. - noon | Drop-in while supplies last | Concourse
- Sept. 20
- Sept. 27
Pick up a fresh piece of fruit to fuel your mind and body! Have questions about wellness resources at Laurier? Chat with the Wellness Education team!
Party Smart Pop-Up
10:00 a.m. - noon | Drop-in | Concourse
- Sept. 20
- Sept. 27
Join us for a lively and engaging pop-up booth! Connect with the Dean of Students office staff for a fun-filled session featuring trivia, treats, and important conversations about partying safely. Special guests will share tips on safe ways to get home and discuss perceptions of substance use. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn, enjoy some treats, and chat about staying safe while having a great time!
Art Jam
Sept. 24, 1 to 4 p.m. | Drop-in | Schlegel Atrium
Wellness Education supports the Sexual Violence Response Team's annual "Art Jam" for We Believe Survivors day, as part of Consent Awareness Week. Art Jam offers students the opportunity to engage in arts and crafts, enjoy snacks, and access valuable information on campus and community resources and so much more!
The Randomizer Video Game
Sept. 25, 12:30 to 4 p.m. | Drop-in | Concourse
Come test your skills against the Randomizer! The Responsible Gambling Council is presenting its program the Randomizer video game for young adults with an interactive kiosk, specially staffed display and fantastic giveaways including three scholarship awards. Learn about your chances of developing a gambling addiction, and see if you have the skills to #BeatTheRandomizer!
Art Hives
Sept. 25, 1 to 3 p.m. | Drop-in | Martin Luther Chapel
Drop in for creative art-making, facilitated by graduate counselling students, to de-stress, explore, refresh and have fun! No art experience required and all supplies are provided.
Learn to Bake Your Own Bread
Oct. 3, 7 to 8 p.m. | Drop-in | P111
Did you know you can bake your own delicious bread at home, with only five simple ingredients, for less than a dollar a loaf? Join the Peer Wellness Educators to learn our easiest recipe for homemade bread. We'll supply all ingredients and you'll take home a loaf of bread dough ready to pop in your fridge at home and bake the next day! This event is first come, first serve, to the first 10 participants.
Fresh Fruit Friday
10:00 a.m. - noon | Drop-in while supplies last | Concourse- Oct. 4
- Oct. 11
Pick up a fresh piece of fruit to fuel your mind and body! Have questions about wellness resources at Laurier? Chat with the Wellness Education team!
Nourish and Flourish
10:00 a.m. - noon | Drop-in while supplies last | Concourse
- Oct. 22
- Oct. 29
Pick up a fresh piece of fruit to fuel your mind and body! We'll be handing out free condoms and other wellness resources too. Have questions about wellness resources at Laurier? Chat with the Wellness Education team!
Art Hives
Oct. 30, 1 to 3 p.m. | Drop-in | Martin Luther Chapel
Drop in for creative art-making, facilitated by graduate counselling students, to de-stress, explore, refresh and have fun! No art experience required and all supplies are provided.
Thrive Week
Nov. 4-8 | In-person and Online | Across Campus
Thrive is a weeklong series of free events to build positive mental health 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.
Nourish and Flourish
10:00 a.m. - noon | Drop-in while supplies last | Concourse
- Nov. 5
- Nov. 12
- Nov. 19
- Nov. 26
Squash the Beef! Conflict Resolution Fair
Nov. 5, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Drop-in | King Street Residence Multi-Purpose Room
Drop-in for an event designed to help students navigate conflict and enhance communication skills. Gain practical tips, discover campus resources, and learn strategies for resolving conflicts. Enjoy a free soup lunch while connecting with Laurier community members. Let’s squash the beef and move forward with a positive mindset! Gluten-free and vegan options available too! This event is hosted by Dean of Students Office, Department of Residence and Wellness Education
Nature Walk with Dogs
Nov. 5, 12 to 12:50 p.m.| Drop-in | Martin Luther Orchard
Paints, Plants and Peers
Nov. 5, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. | Register in Advance | P119
Come get creative with the Peer Wellness Educators! Take an hour to de-stress by painting a clay pot and getting to know your peers. At the end of the event, you'll get an indoor plant to take home in your newly decorated pot! Spaces are limited, be sure to register in advance!
Drop-In De-Stressor
Nov. 8, 11 am to 2:30 p.m. | Drop-in | P111
Drop in and de-stress! Stop by for some colouring, bracelet making, snacks and more!
Ditch the Darts: Promoting a Smoke-Free Laurier
Nov. 12, 10 a.m. to noon | Drop-in | Concourse
Truth or Dare: Pour Decisions
Nov. 19, 10 a.m. to noon | Drop-in | Concourse
Join Wellness Education and the Dean of Students Office for a fun and educational afternoon at Truth or Dare: Pour Decisions! Put your knowledge to the test with trivia focused on responsible partying, alcohol awareness, and healthy choices, all while participating in lively activities that guarantee a great time. You'll also have the opportunity to win sweet prizes throughout the event. So grab your friends, bring your competitive spirit, and come enjoy an afternoon filled with fun, learning, and treats! Find us at the Nourish and Flourish concourse booth.
Mental Health Booth: Good2Talk
Nov. 19, 2 to 4 p.m. | Drop-in | Concourse
Good2Talk provides free, confidential support services, by phone and text, for post-secondary students in Ontario. Join Good2Talk in the concourse to learn about their services. We will also be sharing resources about mental health and wellness as you head into your last midterms and exams. There will be snacks available!
Sew Your Own Book
Nov. 19, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. | Drop-in | P111
Get creative and make your own handmade book! Learn basic bookbinding techniques to sew a unique journal or sketchbook from recycled materials, for financial and environmental wellness. All supplies are provided, but you can also bring any personal materials you'd like to incorporate, such as photos, stickers or momentos.
Art Hives
Nov. 27, 1 to 3 p.m. | Drop-in | Martin Luther Chapel
Drop in for creative art-making, facilitated by graduate counselling students, to de-stress, explore, refresh and have fun! No art experience required and all supplies are provided.
Knowing Yourself: Exploring your Values and its Importance for Graduate School
Nov. 28, 3 to 4 p.m. | Drop-in | P224
Calling all Graduate students! Knowing yourself, and your values, helps connect you with why you are doing your degree, and helps you make decisions in line with your values. Join us for this interactive workshop, where we will explore why it is important to know your values, and how to get to know yourself and your values. You will come away from the workshop with an understanding of how your values informs your graduate student journey, how it helps with staying well during stressful times, and tangible strategies.
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.