El Bierzo & Valdeorras, Spain | 02–11.07.2024
From July 2nd to 11th, 2024, a vibrant group of young Europeans gathered in the scenic regions of El Bierzo and Valdeorras in Spain for a transformative Erasmus+ youth exchange: Mindful Steps. This unique project offered participants the chance to connect with themselves, others, and nature through the lens of mindfulness, mental wellbeing, and outdoor adventure.
Organised within the framework of Erasmus+, the experience encouraged young people from different countries to explore themes such as emotional intelligence, mental health awareness, self-reflection, and sustainable living while discovering the cultural richness of Northern Spain.
Throughout the exchange, participants engaged in a wide range of non-formal learning activities: yoga, mindfulness meditation, team-building games, nature hikes, and cultural visits. The program was designed not only to educate, but to also inspire holistic wellbeing and personal development.
Hiking parts of the Camino de Santiago route allowed participants to reflect, reset, and experience a sense of accomplishment together. Activities like kayaking, swimming in natural lakes, and group reflections helped forge strong friendships and emotional connections within the group.
Workshops and sessions focused on:
– Developing mindfulness as a daily practice
– Strengthening self-awareness and emotional regulation
– Fostering intercultural understanding and cooperation
– Encouraging eco-conscious and active lifestyles
Rafaela:
“The trip to Spain on the paths of Camino de Santiago with Erasmus+ project Mindful Steps was an unforgettable experience that I’ll always remember. We were lucky to have amazing facilitators who organised everything, brought lots of energy and activities, and gave us one of the best experiences of our lives! One thing I especially liked was how participants themselves coordinated sessions like yoga and meditation it made us feel truly involved.”
Aliki:
“We did a whole bunch of different activities like meditation, yoga, swimming in the lake, and visiting castles and old mines. As the week progressed, we bonded through sharing about our similarities and differences being from all over Europe. I found it amazing how many things we had in common. It was a great experience that blended reconnection with nature, teamwork, and improving mental health. It really made me feel the meaning of being a European citizen.”
Aggelos:
“I want to remember this experience! It was an incredible project. The people, the places, and the energy were all amazing. Northern Spain was so beautiful, and I loved every part of the program. The hiking sessions stood out they were a perfect mix of exercise and communication in nature. I truly hope I can be part of something like this again.”
Sofia:
“I learned about the value of mindfulness and how to integrate it into our lives through simple activities like meditation. I also rediscovered the joy of an active lifestyle through hiking, kayaking, and exploring. It gave me a glimpse into what it means to be a pilgrim on the Camino and the beauty of the mountains in the Winter Way.”
Mohamed:
“This Erasmus experience was incredibly interesting. I met many new people and learned so much about Spain and different cultures across Europe. What stood out was the learning that came not only from the trainers, but from each participant everyone brought something valuable. Living these 10 days together created strong connections and new perspectives.”
The Mindful Steps exchange created a space where young people could slow down, breathe, and appreciate the world and people around them. Far from screens and stress, they experienced the power of mindfulness, the strength of team spirit, and the peace that comes from meaningful interactions with nature.
Participants left with new friendships, refreshed minds, and a toolkit of practices to continue their personal growth journeys at home.
There’s something powerful about walking together, breathing together, and sharing life’s simple joys. That’s the heart of Mindful Steps. Through connection, reflection, and shared experience, this project embodied the spirit of Erasmus+: creating change through empathy, education, and engagement.
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