The first day of the "Healthy Plate for a Healthy Mind" training course began with warm introductions and interactive activities that helped participants get to know each other and build a friendly, energetic atmosphere. Roles were shared among the group for the week, encouraging teamwork and responsibility.

Short energizers kept spirits high throughout the day, and meals focused on balanced nutrition with fresh vegetables, fruits, and delicious meat dishes aligned with the project’s theme. In the afternoon, participants explored Eani through a scavenger hunt using the Actionbound app, completing challenges and quizzes while discovering local history and engaging with residents.

The day ended with a traditional Pontian dance event in Kozani, where music, movement, and cultural exchange brought everyone together in celebration.

The second day of the “Healthy Plate for a Healthy Mind” training course was filled with insightful workshops and energizing group activities.

Participants explored the foundations of a healthy diet, focusing on the principles of balanced nutrition and the Mediterranean diet. Through interactive case studies, they created dietary suggestions for fictional individuals with various eating habits and health concerns — such as athletes needing high protein, people with diabetes requiring low sugar intake, or those with digestive issues needing fiber-rich meals.

A standout session emphasized the importance of savoring food with all five senses. Using raisins as an example, participants were guided to observe the food’s appearance, feel its texture, smell its aroma, and slowly taste it — highlighting how mindful eating enhances appreciation and digestion.

The group also discussed the difference between being “mindfull” and “mindful.” A “mindfull” person tends to dwell on the past or worry about the future, while a “mindful” person is fully present, aware of their surroundings and sensations in the moment. This distinction helped participants reflect on their own habits and how mindfulness can support healthier living.

Later, the group visited the archaeological museum of Eani, which showcases remarkable artifacts from the Macedonian region — offering a deeper connection to local history and culture.

In the afternoon, participants teamed up for playful Olympic-style games that combined movement, laughter, and collaboration. Creative energizers like “Ping Pong Ball” and “Fruit Salad”.

The evening concluded with a joyful intercultural event where participants shared traditional dances, snacks, and customs from their home countries — celebrating diversity and building deeper connections.

During this enriching workshop, our group explored the concept of living a balanced life through discussions, group activities, and cultural experiences. We focused on twelve key areas that contribute to overall well-being: health, emotions, learning, spirituality, family, friends, work or studies, money, fun, community, environment, and personal growth. Each of these aspects plays a vital role in helping us lead happier, more meaningful lives.

One of the most thought-provoking sessions was the “negative brainstorm”, where we identified factors that disrupt life balance — such as stress, unhealthy habits, poor time management, or lack of self-care. This exercise helped us reflect on real-life challenges and encouraged us to choose one negative habit to address and present in a school setting, promoting awareness and positive change.

To conclude the day, we visited a local restaurant to enjoy traditional food and immerse ourselves in the local culture. This experience highlighted the importance of community, shared meals, and cultural appreciation — all essential elements of a balanced lifestyle.

The workshop reminded us that true balance isn’t about perfection in one area, but about nurturing all aspects of life. Through learning, sharing, and connecting with others, we realized how small, intentional choices can significantly improve our overall well-being.

On day 4 of our Erasmus+ Training Course “Healthy Plate for a Healthy Mind”, we had a free day! During this time, we had the chance to rest and explore the beautiful sights of Greece.

We visited the waterfalls of Edessa and had the pleasure to relax and unwind in the hot springs of Pozar.

Day five of the "Healthy Plate for a Healthy Mind" training course was both intense and inspiring. Participants designed and delivered four creative training sessions focused on key areas of well-being: personal growth, mental and emotional health, balanced nutrition and food literacy, and physical intelligence. Each session was built around powerful themes such as Activate Yourself, The Perfect Body, Addictions, and Embrace Yourself, encouraging self-awareness and healthy lifestyle choices.

Throughout the day, the group worked collaboratively to present their workshops, applying a conscious mindset and innovative approaches. They also practiced giving and receiving constructive feedback using structured methods like the “I” statement, the X-Y-Z technique, and the “Sandwich” method, fostering respectful communication and personal development.

In the afternoon, the group had the honor of participating in the Greek National Day celebration in Aeani’s main square. Surrounded by patriotic songs, poems, and traditional dances, they experienced a deep emotional connection with the local community. The celebration brought together people of all ages in a powerful moment of unity, culture, and shared humanity.

The day closed with a sense of pride and inspiration, captured in the quote: “Greeks do not fight like heroes, heroes fight like Greeks.” It was a day of meaningful work, cultural immersion, and collective strength.

During the last day of our Erasmus+ Training Course “Healthy Plate for a Healthy Mind”, we visited the Public Onassis School of Kozani (former 3rd High School).

During our visit, we organized 4 workshops for 130 students:

The opening workshop was "Activate Yourself". It was a 20-minute interactive workshop designed to inspire high school students to move from inactivity to activity and develop their physical intelligence. There were energizers, group discussions, and simple physical exercises. Participants explored the benefits of daily movement and identify small, practical ways to stay active. The session encouraged reflection, teamwork, and motivation. It also helped students commit to incorporating at least five minutes of physical exercise into their daily routines.

In the second workshop, "Embrace Yourself" participants build self-esteem, self-awareness, and positive communication skills. They learned to appreciate their own strengths and the value of others, through reflection, group sharing, and creative activities. The session promoted empathy, unity, and the idea that a healthy mind is essential for overall well-being.

In the third workshop, “Perfect Body” participants explored how social media influences body image and self-perception. There was reflection, discussion, and creative activities. Participants learned about different types of eating disorders and how unrealistic beauty standards can impact mental health. The session encouraged self-acceptance, positive self-talk, and awareness of the importance of a healthy mind–body connection.

In the final workshop, "The Impact of Addiction on Human Health", students explored how addictions to substances like sugar, alcohol, and tobacco affect the brain and body. Participants learned about dopamine, how addictive behaviors develop, and the negative consequences of overstimulation on physical and mental health. Through discussion, games, and a group quiz, students identified healthier ways to stimulate dopamine and build awareness of habits that support long-term well-being.

All workshops focused on the connection between a healthy diet and a healthy mind. As part of the Eurodesk Campaign “Tasty Europe”, we introduced students to the Healthy Plate method — and afterwards, they had the chance to create their own healthy plates!

Healthy Plate for a Healthy Mind is an Erasmus+ training course coordinated by GO Alive (Greece) under the Erasmus+ Accreditation, with the support of the Greek National Agency INeDiViM, in partnership with: Youth Opportunities Club (Armenia), Beyond Borders ETS (Italy), Klub Sportowy Beniaminek 03 (Poland), Teatro Metaphora – Associação de Amigos das Artes (Portugal), Asociatia Tineret pentru Dezvoltare Durabila (Romania) and Club for Youth Empowerment 018 (Serbia).

The project unites 20 youth workers from seven countries to promote well-being, healthy nutrition, and holistic personal development in youth work.