Calm and Connect Week

Yoga is a great opportunity to take a break from the demands of daily life, calm your mind, and reconnect with yourself. Through gentle movement, stretching, and mindfulness, yoga can help reduce stress, improve wellbeing, and create a sense of balance.

(places are limited)

8.00am to 8.45am
YSJ Active Gym

Book a place

A little prayer, a little silence, and a lot of peace to start your day.

9.00am to 9.30am
Chapel

Setting your study goals and planning your week is a sure-fire way to reduce unnecessary stress and academic anxiety. Join this weekly planning hub with our Study Development team to help keep you organised, focused, and motivated.

11.00am to 12.00pm
Future You space, Holgate 013

Celebrate Calm and Connect with by joining in a craft session. Crafts are so beneficial for mental health and help to reduce anxiety through repetitive actions, and boosting self-esteem through tangible accomplishments. Crafts encourage focus on the present moment, which lowers stress, increases dopamine, and provides a productive outlet for emotional expression and cognitive stimulation.

12.00pm to 1.00pm
Future You space, Holgate 013

Book a place

At our free wellbeing drop-ins you can meet with a specialist Mental Health Practitioner for a short 1 to 1 session, offering you support and information for your wellbeing and mental health. Our Practitioners can listen, provide a space for you to talk about your current mental wellbeing, signpost you to internal and external services, and support you with coping strategies. To visit the drop-in, go to the Student Hub Desk and let staff know that you are there for a wellbeing drop-in. You will be asked to complete a short form when you arrive, and will be offered a session of around 20 to 30 minutes to explore your concerns. If the service is in demand, you may have to wait to be seen.

1.00pm to 3.30pm
Student Hub

Join this mini workshop to refocus on your time management with some amazing hacks to help you better plan your studies and ensure you have a good study/life balance. University academic work is hard and time consuming but managing your time effectively will make your over all experience so much more positive.

2.00pm to 3.00pm
Future You space, Holgate 013

Do you have an assignment where you need to present your work? Do you get nervous when speaking in front of people? This Study Development session is designed to help you to communicate your ideas clearly and with confidence, removing stress and anxiety. We'll talk about how to structure your presentations and offer practical tips on managing nerves, and on how to use your body language and voice effectively. 

3.00pm to 4.00pm
Future You space, Holgate 013

Visit our gratitude wall in the dining hall and library and stop to appreciate the little things in life that bring a smile to people's faces. Let us know what lifts your day and helps lift your mood. You never know how it might also positively affect others.

All day
Dining Hall and Library wellbeing wall

Dotted around campus are colouring posters, ready for you to add your personal touch and take a moment out! The simple activity of a few minutes colouring can soothe your busy mind and act as a form of mini meditation. Pick up a DIY bookmark from the library to take some creativity home with you.

All day
Around campus 

Pop into the library or find one of the book swap shelves on campus to enjoy some reading for pleasure. Reading can significantly lower stress levels by reducing heart rate, easing muscle tension, and altering the state of mind and provides a fantastic avenue of escapism.

All day
Around campus

We often speak kindly to others but rarely to ourselves. This is your moment to change that. Pick up one of our 'postcards to yourself' from the Student Hub or cafes across campus and write down three things you truly appreciate about yourself. The goal isn't perfection, it's self-recognition.

All day
Dining Hall, Cafes and Library Help Desk

Find some conversation starters on the dining hall and café tables. Talking to new people can promote wellbeing by providing fresh perspectives on personal challenges, genuine support from unexpected sources, and strengthened community integration. At York St John we like to think that students are all friends, even if they don't know it yet!

All day
Dining Hall and cafés

Pick up one of our affirmation cards, found in the Student Hub, cafés and dining hall. These affirmation cards are a small reminder of your self-worth, hopefully boosting your confidence, self-belief and positivity while reducing anxiety and stress.

All day
Dining Hall and cafés

If you pass by one of our 'stop stations' posters, on campus, take a moment to stop, reflect and learn a quick wellbeing or mindfulness skill. Take a photo to remind you about these skills, for a time when you may need them. Practising mindfulness helps to cultivate present-moment awareness, significantly reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while improving emotional regulation and cognitive focus.

All day
Around campus

Pick up a copy of our Calm and Connect Week wellbeing guidebook, designed to give you a single resource filled with information and ideas to help you on your journey to positive wellbeing.

All day
Dining Hall, Cafes and Library Help Desk

A little prayer, a little silence, and a lot of peace to start your day.

9.00am to 9.30am
Chapel

You're invited to the SU Wellbeing Morning in The Lounge! Take some time to relax and recharge with , where you can explore and try a range of skincare products for your own at-home self-care routine. Drop in to discover new favourites and enjoy a moment of wellbeing during your day.

10.00am to 2.00pm
Students' Union Lounge

Take a break from the busy day and spend some time with Jaffa, the Students’ Union therapy dog. Whether you need a moment to relax, de-stress, or simply enjoy some furry companionship, Jaffa is here to brighten your day with plenty of tail wags and friendly cuddles. No booking needed, just come along and say hello!

10.00am to 12.00am
Students' Union Lounge

Unwind with The Body Shop in the SU Lounge. Try out skincare products and get a free massage for an at-home self care session. No booking required.

10.00am to 12.00am
Students' Union Lounge

Turns out there is such a thing as a free lunch! Pop in for free soup, cake and a chat. Talking to new people can promote wellbeing by providing fresh perspectives on personal challenges, genuine support from unexpected sources, and strengthened community integration.

12.00pm to 1.00pm
Future You space, Holgate 013

Join in our Calm and Connect Week Board Games Café, the perfect antidote to a hard day of studying. Do you know that board games benefit mental health by reducing stress through distraction, fostering social connections that combat loneliness, and improving cognitive functions like memory and problem-solving? 

1.00pm to 2.00pm
Future You space, Holgate 013

Book a place

At our free wellbring drop-ins you can meet with a specialist Mental Health Practitioner for a short 1 to 1 session, offering you support and information for your wellbeing and mental health. Our Practitioners can listen, provide a space for you to talk about your current mental wellbeing, signpost you to internal and external services, and support you with coping strategies. To visit the drop-in, go to the Student Hub Desk and let staff know that you are there for a wellbeing drop-in. You will be asked to complete a short form when you arrive, and will be offered a session of around 20 to 30 minutes to explore your concerns. If the service is in demand, you may have to wait to be seen.

1.00pm to 3.30pm
Student Hub

Join in this workshop to make sure that you are kind to yourself whilst studying at full capacity. Study kindness involves a shift from purely competitive, high-stress academic approaches to a more sustainable, holistic method that improves both mental health and academic performance.

2.00pm to 3.00pm
Future You space, Holgate 013

Dotted around campus are colouring posters, ready for you to add your personal touch and take a moment out! The simple activity of a few minutes colouring can soothe your busy mind and act as a form of mini meditation. Pick up a DIY bookmark from the library to take some creativity home with you.

All day
Around campus 

Visit our gratitude wall in the dining hall and library and stop to appreciate the little things in life that bring a smile to people's faces. Let us know what lifts your day and helps lift your mood. You never know how it might also positively affect others.

All day
Dining Hall and Library wellbeing wall 

Pop into the library or find one of the book swap shelves on campus to enjoy some reading for pleasure. Reading can significantly lower stress levels by reducing heart rate, easing muscle tension, and altering the state of mind and provides a fantastic avenue of escapism.

All day
Around campus

We often speak kindly to others but rarely to ourselves. This is your moment to change that. Pick up one of our 'postcards to yourself' from the Student Hub or cafes across campus and write down three things you truly appreciate about yourself. The goal isn't perfection, it's self-recognition.

All day
Dining Hall, Cafes and Library Help Desk

Find some conversation starters on the dining hall and café tables. Talking to new people can promote wellbeing by providing fresh perspectives on personal challenges, genuine support from unexpected sources, and strengthened community integration. At York St John we like to think that students are all friends, even if they don't know it yet!

All day
Dining Hall and cafés

Pick up one of our affirmation cards, found in the Student Hub, cafés and dining hall. These affirmation cards are a small reminder of your self-worth, hopefully boosting your confidence, self-belief and positivity whilst reducing anxiety and stress.

All day
Dining Hall and cafés

If you pass by one of our 'stop stations' posters, on campus, take a moment to stop, reflect and learn a quick wellbeing or mindfulness skill. Take a photo to remind you about these skills, for a time when you may need them. Practising mindfulness helps to cultivate present-moment awareness, significantly reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while improving emotional regulation and cognitive focus.

All day
Around campus

Pick up a copy of our Calm and Connect Week wellbeing guidebook, designed to give you a single resource filled with information and ideas to help you on your journey to positive wellbeing.

All day
Dining Hall, Cafes and Library Help Desk

Pilates classes are a fantastic way to support your mental wellbeing. By combining controlled movement, focused breathing, and mindful concentration, Pilates can help reduce stress, improve mood, and promote a greater sense of calm.

(places are limited)

4.00pm to 5.00pm
YSJ Active Gym

Book a place

Join the SU at they week Tuesday free Pub Quiz! Gather your friends, connect with others, put your knowledge to the test, and compete for some great prizes. Be sure to arrive early to grab a table and enjoy a pizza before the quiz begins. Whether you're a trivia expert or just in it for the fun, everyone is welcome!

6pm
Archie's Bar

A little prayer, a little silence, and a lot of peace to start your day.

9.00am to 9.30am
Chapel

Blue the York St John therapy dog is here to listen, to be fussed over or to sit quietly with you. Follow Blue on Instagram for an insight into the life of a therapy dog.

9.00am to 10.00am and 10.30am to 11.30am
Holgate

Join our Grounds team on our main York campus for Wild Wednesdays gardening activities. This is a great way to meet fellow garden goers and to learn about gardening, whilst supporting biodiversity on our beautiful campus. Gardening is a powerful tool for mental health, offering numerous benefits that can improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance overall wellbeing. For more information, please email sustainability@yorksj.ac.uk.

12.00pm to 2.00pm
Meet outside the Students' Union

Our dedicated team for international students (ISLD) will support you with language, communication and academic skills for your university work, helping you to feel more settled and integrated at York St John. This week our ISLD Academic Discussion Group will run 'A discussion about Stress, Calmness and Confidence' and will be open to all students, whether international or not. Join us to discuss wellbeing, what it means to you and how to handle mental wellness in today’s world.

1.00pm to 2.00pm
Holgate 139

At our free wellbeing drop-ins you can meet with a specialist Mental Health Practitioner for a short 1 to 1 session, offering you support and information for your wellbeing and mental health. Our Practitioners can listen, provide a space for you to talk about your current mental wellbeing, signpost you to internal and external services, and support you with coping strategies. To visit the drop-in, go to the Student Hub Desk and let staff know that you are there for a wellbeing drop-in. You will be asked to complete a short form when you arrive, and will be offered a session of around 20 to 30 minutes to explore your concerns. If the service is in demand, you may have to wait to be seen.

1.00pm to 3.30pm
Student Hub

Yoga is a great opportunity to take a break from the demands of daily life, calm your mind, and reconnect with yourself. Through gentle movement, stretching, and mindfulness, yoga can help reduce stress, improve wellbeing, and create a sense of balance.

(places are limited)

1.00pm to 2.00pm
YSJ Active Gym

Book a place

Mindfulness is a non-religious mental exercise that you can carry to every part of your life. It helps you develop simple skills to cope with life’s difficulties by training you to focus on the present in an accepting, non-judgemental way. It helps you to see things more clearly, to manage challenges more wisely and to feel more content. Sessions are run by our Chaplain Jane.

1.15am to 1.45pm
Chapel

Celebrate Calm and Connect with by joining in a craft session. Crafts are so beneficial for mental health and help to reduce anxiety through repetitive actions, and boosting self-esteem through tangible accomplishments. Crafts encourage focus on the present moment, which lowers stress, increases dopamine, and provides a productive outlet for emotional expression and cognitive stimulation.

2.30pm to 4.00pm
Future You space, Holgate 013

Book a place

Release your inner artist and join us for an afternoon Paint and Sip session! Tickets include all the materials plus a regular hot or soft drink. Crafts encourage focus on the present moment, which lowers stress, increases dopamine, and provides a productive outlet for emotional expression and cognitive stimulation.

4.00pm
Students' Union Lounge

Find out more and buy tickets

Visit our gratitude wall in the dining hall and library and stop to appreciate the little things in life that bring a smile to people's faces. Let us know what lifts your day and helps lift your mood. You never know how it might also positively affect others.

All day
Dining Hall and Library wellbeing wall 

Dotted around campus are colouring posters, ready for you to add your personal touch and take a moment out! The simple activity of a few minutes colouring can soothe your busy mind and act as a form of mini meditation. Pick up a DIY bookmark from the library to take some creativity home with you.

All day
Around campus 

Pop into the library or find one of the book swap shelves on campus to enjoy some reading for pleasure. Reading can significantly lower stress levels by reducing heart rate, easing muscle tension, and altering the state of mind and provides a fantastic avenue of escapism.

All day
Around campus

We often speak kindly to others but rarely to ourselves. This is your moment to change that. Pick up one of our 'postcards to yourself' from the Student Hub or cafés across campus and write down three things you truly appreciate about yourself. The goal isn't perfection, it's self-recognition.

All day
Dining Hall, Cafes and Library Help Desk

Find some conversation starters on the dining hall and café tables. Talking to new people can promote wellbeing by providing fresh perspectives on personal challenges, genuine support from unexpected sources, and strengthened community integration. At York St John we like to think that students are all friends, even if they don't know it yet!

All day
Dining Hall and cafés

Pick up one of our affirmation cards, found in the Student Hub, cafés and dining hall. These affirmation cards are a small reminder of your self-worth, hopefully boosting your confidence, self-belief and positivity whilst reducing anxiety and stress.

All day
Dining Hall and cafés

If you pass by one of our 'stop stations' posters, on campus, take a moment to stop, reflect and learn a quick wellbeing or mindfulness skill. Take a photo to remind you about these skills, for a time when you may need them. Practising mindfulness helps to cultivate present-moment awareness, significantly reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while improving emotional regulation and cognitive focus.

All day
Around campus

Pick up a copy of our Calm and Connect Week wellbeing guidebook, designed to give you a single resource filled with information and ideas to help you on your journey to positive wellbeing.

All day
Dining Hall, Cafes and Library Help Desk

A little prayer, a little silence, and a lot of peace to start your day.

9.00am to 9.30am
Chapel

Whether brand new to knitting or crochet and just looking for a new hobby or to meet new friends, or if you are a skilled yarnsmith, drop in for some crafty fun and friendly chat, both of which are amazing for your mental wellbeing. Bring your lunch and wool project if you have one. Needles and yarn are available for those who want to learn or borrow.

12.00pm to 2.00pm
Chapel

The Chapel's weekly session is an opportunity for international students to improve their English and learn more about British culture, all whilst meeting new friends and helping with the settling in process.

12.00pm
Chapel Kitchen

At our free wellbeing drop-ins you can meet with a specialist Mental Health Practitioner for a short 1 to 1 session, offering you support and information for your wellbeing and mental health. Our Practitioners can listen, provide a space for you to talk about your current mental wellbeing, signpost you to internal and external services, and support you with coping strategies. To visit the drop-in, go to the Student Hub Desk and let staff know that you are there for a wellbeing drop-in. You will be asked to complete a short form when you arrive, and will be offered a session of around 20 to 30 minutes to explore your concerns. If the service is in demand, you may have to wait to be seen.

1.00pm to 3.30pm
Student Hub

Yoga is a great opportunity to take a break from the demands of daily life, calm your mind, and reconnect with yourself. Through gentle movement, stretching, and mindfulness, yoga can help reduce stress, improve wellbeing, and create a sense of balance.

(Places are limited)

5.30pm to 6.30pm
YSJ Active Gym

Book a place

Join the Artists Society's super fun quiz and put your knowledge to the test for a chance to win an Archie's Voucher! Bring your friends, meet new friends and enjoy a great atmosphere. Tickets available from just £1.

Book your place

6.30pm
Archie's Bar

Visit our gratitude wall in the dining hall and library and stop to appreciate the little things in life that bring a smile to people's faces. Let us know what lifts your day and helps lift your mood. You never know how it might also positively affect others.

All day
Dining Hall and Library wellbeing wall 

Dotted around campus are colouring posters, ready for you to add your personal touch and take a moment out! The simple activity of a few minutes colouring can soothe your busy mind and act as a form of mini meditation. Pick up a DIY bookmark from the library to take some creativity home with you.

All day
Around campus 

Pop into the library or find one of the book swap shelves on campus to enjoy some reading for pleasure. Reading can significantly lower stress levels by reducing heart rate, easing muscle tension, and altering the state of mind and provides a fantastic avenue of escapism.

All day
Around campus

We often speak kindly to others but rarely to ourselves. This is your moment to change that. Pick up one of our 'postcards to yourself' from the Student Hub or cafés across campus and write down three things you truly appreciate about yourself. The goal isn't perfection, it's self-recognition.

All day
Dining Hall, Cafes and Library Help Desk

Find some conversation starters on the dining hall and café tables. Talking to new people can promote wellbeing by providing fresh perspectives on personal challenges, genuine support from unexpected sources, and strengthened community integration. At York St John we like to think that students are all friends, even if they don't know it yet!

All day
Dining Hall and cafés

Pick up one of our affirmation cards, found in the Student Hub, cafés and dining hall. These affirmation cards are a small reminder of your self-worth, hopefully boosting your confidence, self-belief and positivity whilst reducing anxiety and stress.

All day
Dining Hall and cafés

If you pass by one of our 'stop stations' posters, on campus, take a moment to stop, reflect and learn a quick wellbeing or mindfulness skill. Take a photo to remind you about these skills, for a time when you may need them. Practising mindfulness helps to cultivate present-moment awareness, significantly reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while improving emotional regulation and cognitive focus.

All day
Around campus

Pick up a copy of our Calm and Connect Week wellbeing guidebook, designed to give you a single resource filled with information and ideas to help you on your journey to positive wellbeing.

All day
Dining Hall, Cafes and Library Help Desk

A little prayer, a little silence, and a lot of peace to start your day.

9.00am to 9.30am
Chapel

A chance to reflect and pray at the end of the week, in this simple celebration of Communion. All are welcome.

12.30pm to 1.00pm
Chapel

Jummah prayer is one of the most significant prayers in Islam, held every Friday. It’s a time for reflection, unity, and spiritual growth. Join us for a prayer and a sermon, open to all.

1.10pm
Muslim Prayer Room

The best way to build confidence around presentations and public speaking? Giving it a go! Speaker's Corner gives you a safe and supportive space to practice your public speaking skills in front of your peers. Bring along a presentation, a short story, or even a poem! You'll receive warm and constructive feedback from fellow students and will have the opportunity to share advice on presentations and public speaking. Whether it's your first time speaking in front of a group or you're looking to refine your delivery, reduce your nerves and build your confidence, all levels are welcome.

11.30am to 12.30pm
Creative Centre 109

Get away from any stress you may have and uplift your mood with some escape room fun. Did you know that escape rooms enhance mental health by offering a fully immersive, short term escape from daily stressors, allowing the brain to switch focus and reduce anxiety? It's science! They boost mood through the release of endorphins and dopamine from puzzle-solving. It is also the perfect chance to meet new people and foster social connection, build confidence, and stimulate cognitive function. Come alone or with a friend and take part in a mini escape room game. Can you get out in time?

12.00pm to 1.30pm
Future You space, Holgate 013

Book a place

Enjoy some guilt-free materialism! Fast fashion can cause anxiety and guilt regarding cost and environmental damage but swapping clothes provides the 'thrill of the chase' and the joy of 'new' items without the financial strain or environmental impact. You also get to clear your wardrobe of clutter which can lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and create a more relaxing, organised living space. It's a winning situation all round!

2.00pm to 4.00pm
Future You space, Holgate 013

Join the library's weekly Board Games Café, the perfect antidote to a hard day of studying. Do you know that board games benefit mental health by reducing stress through distraction, fostering social connections that combat loneliness, and improving cognitive functions like memory and problem-solving? 

5.00pm to 7.00pm
Library

Mark the beginning of Shabbat with a peaceful and welcoming Friday evening service. Open to all. Please contact chaplaincy@yorksj.ac.uk for details.

6.00pm to 8.00pm
Chapel

At our free wellbeing drop-ins you can meet with a specialist Mental Health Practitioner for a short 1 to 1 session, offering you support and information for your wellbeing and mental health. Our Practitioners can listen, provide a space for you to talk about your current mental wellbeing, signpost you to internal and external services, and support you with coping strategies. To visit the drop-in, go to the Student Hub Desk and let staff know that you are there for a wellbeing drop-in. You will be asked to complete a short form when you arrive, and will be offered a session of around 20 to 30 minutes to explore your concerns. If the service is in demand, you may have to wait to be seen.

1.00pm to 3.30pm
Student Hub

Visit our gratitude wall in the dining hall and library and stop to appreciate the little things in life that bring a smile to people's faces. Let us know what lifts your day and helps lift your mood. You never know how it might also positively affect others.

All day
Dining Halland Library wellbeing wall 

Dotted around campus are colouring posters, ready for you to add your personal touch and take a moment out! The simple activity of a few minutes colouring can soothe your busy mind and act as a form of mini meditation. Pick up a DIY bookmark from the library to take some creativity home with you.

All day
Around campus 

Pop into the library or find one of the book swap shelves on campus to enjoy some reading for pleasure. Reading can significantly lower stress levels by reducing heart rate, easing muscle tension, and altering the state of mind and provides a fantastic avenue of escapism.

All day
Around campus

We often speak kindly to others but rarely to ourselves. This is your moment to change that. Pick up one of our 'postcards to yourself' from the Student Hub or cafés across campus and write down three things you truly appreciate about yourself. The goal isn't perfection, it's self-recognition.

All day
Dining Hall, Cafes and Library Help Desk

Find some conversation starters on the dining hall and café tables. Talking to new people can promote wellbeing by providing fresh perspectives on personal challenges, genuine support from unexpected sources, and strengthened community integration. At York St John we like to think that students are all friends, even if they don't know it yet!

All day
Dining Hall and cafés

Pick up one of our affirmation cards, found in the Student Hub, cafés and dining hall. These affirmation cards are a small reminder of your self-worth, hopefully boosting your confidence, self-belief and positivity whilst reducing anxiety and stress.

All day
Dining Hall and cafés

If you pass by one of our 'stop stations' posters, on campus, take a moment to stop, reflect and learn a quick wellbeing or mindfulness skill. Take a photo to remind you about these skills, for a time when you may need them. Practising mindfulness helps to cultivate present-moment awareness, significantly reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while improving emotional regulation and cognitive focus.

All day
Around campus

Pick up a copy of our Calm and Connect Week wellbeing guidebook, designed to give you a single resource filled with information and ideas to help you on your journey to positive wellbeing.

All day
Dining Hall, Cafes and Library Help Desk