Pause, Breathe, and Reset: USG organizes Wellness Week 2025

Article by: Alexa Julia E. Karaan

Graphics by: Cassius Klai C. Francisco Photo by: Mapúa University Central Student Council

The Mapúa University University Student Government, comprised of the Central Student Council, Council of Organizations, and Council of Presidents, hosted the annual Wellness Week with the theme, “Delving into the Realm of Serenity and Harmony.” The event spanned from March 3 to7, which aimed to promote self-care practices, mindfulness, and holistic wellness.

The event gave student entrepreneurs the spotlight to feature their businesses during the week-long event. Mapúan entrepreneurs showcased their passion for wellness and business. These student-led businesses focused on displaying merchandise that supported physical and mental health through nourishing food, self-care items, and expressive anik-aniks.

Several student-run businesses showcased their products at the event, including Made with Charmistry, Camío Studios, and Anicaniks featured diverse products suitable for the Wellness Week theme of self-care and mindfulness. Moreover, the return of the ‘Ano Nga Ba?’ Series, in its third installment, featured the session 'Mind Matters: Thriving Under Pressure'. The session took place at the Seminar Room, Intramuros Campus last March 4, offering participants important strategies to handle academic, along with non-academic pressures.

Office of Student Affairs and Alumni Relations Head Mr. Oliver Ryan B. Custodio opened the event his remarks, wherein he emphasizes on the importance of such event “May this session inspire everyone to embrace challenges with confidence and emerge stronger in the face of adversities.”

During their talk entitled “The Time I Stopped Taking Meds,” Associate Professor from the Department of Liberal Arts Dr. John Christopher Castillo shared personal stories of the challenges of life and utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy in managing and overcoming the said challenges. Additionally, highlighting techniques of how to better take care of oneself. “We are not supposed to abuse our body; we have to listen to our [bodies]”

They also encouraged maximizing resources when seeking help such as the University’s guidance counselling and accessing crisis hotlines.

In a joint presentation, Ms. Vivian de Guzman and Ms. Trixie Cheng discussed the effects of stress and the remedy of natural wellness.

The five-day long celebration of serenity and mindfulness through community wellness initiatives and student-led discussions promoted the well-being of the Mapúan community. The annual celebration provided Mapúans an opportunity to take a pause and refocus on themselves through programs that support physical and mental wellbeing.