From June 3rd to 14th, 2024, the capital of Lithuania, Vilnius, hosted the Erasmus+ Youth Exchange “Mindful Living: Empowering Youth through Yoga, Breathing Exercises, and Stress Management.” Over 40 young participants from six different countries came together to explore the practice of mindfulness, enhance their emotional well-being, and promote intercultural dialogue.
– Raise awareness among youth about mindfulness, breathing exercises, and yoga as tools for stress management and mental well-being.
– Encourage healthy lifestyle choices, including physical activity and emotional balance through mindfulness practices.
– Promote intercultural dialogue among participants from different countries.
– Develop leadership, self-confidence, and empathy skills through experiential learning.
Giannis:
“My participation in the program was a unique experience. I spent 10 days in Lithuania’s capital with 42 young people from six countries, learning about more mindful ways of living. Every day we participated in meditation sessions that helped us start the day positively.
Spending time with people from different cultures improved my understanding of the world and helped me realize how much we all have in common. I left Vilnius with new friends, beautiful memories, and I definitely recommend this experience to everyone.”
Georgia:
“This Erasmus+ program was a life-changing experience for me, and I feel lucky to have had the opportunity to live it.
I learned ways to manage stress and calm my mind tools I now apply to my everyday life.
I spent beautiful moments with amazing people from different cultures. We shared thoughts, laughter, and unforgettable memories that I will always carry with me.”
Romina:
“During the Erasmus+ project in Vilnius, Lithuania, I spent 10 unforgettable days filled with new experiences and friendships.
Every day, I participated in self-development and yoga programs that helped me discover and improve myself.
The venue was comfortable and welcoming, offering everything we needed to feel at home. The friendships I made with people from different countries truly opened my horizons.”
Anna:
“I took part in a youth exchange in Lithuania and the topic was mindful living. I must say it was an unforgettable experience for me.
I made friends from different countries and we had so much fun during the program! We had yoga sessions and activities that made us think differently and spend quality time together.
It was also my first Erasmus+ project, and I’d love to do it again!”
Valena
“Once again, I joined a fantastic program. This was my fourth time participating in an Erasmus+ project and I couldn’t have been happier.
I learned a lot, met people with whom I exchanged stories and experiences, and took part in very interesting activities—many of which I tried for the first time.
I return home not only with new knowledge and memories but also with many new friends.”
The “Mindful Living” experience may have ended, but its impact continues. The friendships made, the tools gained for emotional balance, and the cultural exchanges are seeds planted for long-term growth and connection.
We encourage all participants and anyone inspired by this journey to keep the spirit of mindfulness alive in their daily lives. Whether it’s through a morning breathing exercise, a quiet moment of reflection, or simply reaching out to someone with empathy, every small action counts.
Let’s continue to build a community that values presence, compassion, and cultural understanding. Stay curious, stay grounded, and above all stay connected.
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