Mental stability through body awareness

Even in times of greatest instability, our body remains our only reliable home. Under this very motto, a unique university-wide lecture titled “Movement and Resilience: A Strategy for Mental Well-being” was held. It was delivered by Yuliia Taranenko, Head of the Department of Choreography and Fitness at BSPU, Associate Professor, together with an art and CBT therapist and psychologist from the Palace of Children and Youth of the Department of Education of the Executive Committee of the Berdiansk City Council, Zaporizhzhia region Tetiana Kulikova.

In the context of remote work and the evacuation of our institution, the issue of mental health has become more pressing than ever. The speakers provided the audience with practical tools for restoring internal resources.

The lecture began with an exploration of the concept of the “Body as Home,” reminding participants that even if we lose physical walls, we do not lose our inner support. Attendees learned about the “muscular armor” according to Wilhelm Reich’s theory and how unexpressed emotions and stress “freeze” in the body, turning into physical tension.

The interactive segment combined psychology with movement. Exercises such as “Shaking,” “Wings of Resilience,” balance challenges with eyes closed, and others allowed participants to feel an immediate effect—muscle relaxation and more balanced breathing.

Particularly dynamic engagement was observed in the Zoom group chat during the psychological exercises led by Tetiana Kulikova. Participants actively shared their sensations, described areas of tension, and discussed methods of recovery. In addition, the psychologist recommended methodological literature for support, suggested engaging activities on Instagram, and invited everyone to participate in the psychological flash mob “7 Days of Self-Care,” which will take place from April 13 to 19, 2026.

The meeting concluded on a very warm note. On the eve of the Easter holidays, the speakers wished the entire university community inner renewal and resilience. Participants were invited to leave their words of gratitude in the chat, which continued to fill with warm feedback and virtual hugs long after the official end of the lecture.

This event proved that our university is not just an educational space, but a living organism capable of supporting, healing, and inspiring its members—even across distances and screens.