Renew and refuel.
That’s what about 230 San Diego State University (SDSU) students, faculty and staff did at a free mental wellness conference which took place this past spring at the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union.
The Renew & Refuel Mental Wellness Conference was organized by Brenda Hernandez, a master’s student in the SDSU College of Education’s Department of Child & Family Development.
“The event was created to benefit SDSU students by providing health and wellness tips and resources they can utilize daily,” said Hernandez. “We wanted to offer students a full day of fun ways to learn how to take care of their health and well-being.”
The day-long conference featured keynote speaker Megan Leuchars, who spoke about the importance of being mindful and having self-compassion. Leuchars has developed and delivered customized mindfulness programs for Fortune 500 companies, as well as for educational, healthcare, and academic settings. Some SDSU students will have her as an instructor this fall since she will be teaching an honors class on mindfulness and compassion.
The event, funded by the SDSU Student Success Fee, also included an interactive resource fair and a variety of workshops, including yoga, tai chi, breathing and meditation, and time and life balance.
How did the students like the conference?
“We got some great feedback,” Hernandez said. “Among our most popular workshops were nutrition and stress, yoga and mindfulness and reflection.”
Good feedback, indeed.
"Overall an amazing event! Felt amazing to relax and take a step back from school and work," said one attendee.
"This was an amazing conference. Many great resources were offered and it was amazing!” added another.
A third participant said, "I'm looking forward to attending your next conference.”
Will there be a second Renew and Refuel Mental Wellness Conference?
“The hope is that it will take place again next year. Nothing is confirmed,” Hernandez said.
Stay tuned.