Robert Tyron V. Narito, RPm

‘Informal’ was the main approach for the LPU Manila Guidance and Testing Center’s pilot session of ‘Wellness Space’, a monthly get-together devoted to initiating healthy discussions with the students on wellbeing, mental health, and beyond, held via Microsoft Teams last September 28, 2021 at 3:00 P.M. to 4:30 P.M.

Mr. Niño Banlaygas, RGC and Mr. Marvin delos Santos hosted the short get-together, yours truly and Mr. Jayson Adajar oversaw the Mentimeter portions of the program, while Ms. Cathie Cagata led the opening prayer.

Before the program started, the students were asked for their thoughts about what their expectations are for today’s session. This real-time Mentimeter session was facilitated by yours truly, together with the event hosts.

Ma’am Carolyn Quiba, RGC—the Guidance Director for LPUGTC—discussed the rationale and advantages of the unit’s monthly undertaking, and discussed several concepts including the Stress-Distress-Disorder (as explained in the Mental Health Facilitation of the National Board for Certified Counselors) and the Goal of Resiliency (Growth, Eustress, and Stress).

Ms. Gladys Ramos, RGC shared about the focus of the day’s session: Awareness and Acceptance in Mindfulness. Points that were tackled include challenges brought about by the pandemic, and simple exercises that can help us get back on track with mindfulness. An activity followed shortly after, which focused on mindful breathing. All participants—including Team GTC—followed along during the said exercise.

Wellness Space would not be complete without the open discussion with the students, where most students shared about their sentiments regarding school-related stress (one of which was dubbed by a student participant as ‘being emotionally constipated’) and difficulties managing emotions and sleeping patterns.

The student participants were asked about what they were looking forward to in the succeeding sessions of Wellness Space. This portion was facilitated by Mr. Jayson Adajar. Students expressed their appreciation for the day’s wellness exercise, and interest in more wellness tips in the succeeding sessions.

LPUGTC is set to conduct the second Wellness Space session on October 28, 2021, Thursday. Details about the event are to be announced on the official social media accounts of the unit.