Continuing the Momentum of Community Wellbeing
Following the success of the Smart D8 community initiatives in 2024, we are committed to expanding our efforts by actively collaborating with various stakeholders and community organizations. Our goal is to deliver impactful health and wellbeing initiatives that foster long-term positive change.
A Week Dedicated to Health & Wellbeing
In January 2025, Smart D8 once again partnered with Inchicore College of Further Education (ICFE) to celebrate Health & Wellbeing Week 2025. The initiative, held from January 13th to January 17th, featured a diverse schedule of student-led activities designed to empower participants and encourage ownership of their health and wellbeing.
Engaging Activities Throughout the Week
- Monday, 13th: the week kicked off with an inspiring play, “The 3.30 at Cheltenham”, written, performed, and produced by ICFE Theatre graduates. The performance was followed by an engaging Q&A panel discussion.
- Tuesday, January 14th: a “Health, Fitness & Mobility Assessment” followed by an “Active Ageing Strength & Mobility” workshop were led by Personal Trainer Level 6 students for local community groups. The event was organized in collaboration with South Dublin Sports Development Officer Catherine Flood, ICFE Sports Coordinator Rachel Donlon, and Health Promotion Teacher Andrea McQuillan. Additionally, a talk on “Self-Care Tools for Care Workers” was delivered by Community & Social Care students.
- Wednesday, January 15th: the day featured a Creative Writing Wellness Workshop led by ICFE CW graduate Niamh Brunell, followed by a lively Music Bingo session organized by Business & HR Level 6 students.
- Thursday, January 16th: Psychology Level 6 students hosted a Connect Café and Wellness Spa, followed by a Health Check delivered by Sports Science students. The day concluded with a talk on “The Psychology of Addiction” presented by Psychology Level 6 students.
- Friday, January 17th: the week concluded with a one-hour workshop on “The Feral Kitchen,” facilitated by Green Goes Wild, offering insights into sustainable and mindful eating.
Smart D8 Panel’s Workshops
As part of this collaboration, Smart D8 facilitated three workshops led by our Smart D8 Tutors.
1. Balancing Your Emotions and Nervous System
DATE: January 14th
FACILITATOR: Evan Dwan, Smart D8 Tutor
OVERVIEW: this workshop introduced participants to practical skills for managing mental health, incorporating somatic-based exercises and emotion-focused techniques. Participants explored the Polyvagal Theory as a model for understanding the nervous system, engaging in grounding, tracking, resourcing, orienting, breathwork, and gesturing exercises.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Grounding and tracking exercises promoted states of calm and relaxation;
- Future iterations could encourage peer-led guidance in these exercises;
- Emphasizing relationships, music, art, and nature as everyday regulatory resources proved beneficial.
2. The 4 Pillars of Health
DATE: January 16th
FACILITATOR: Margaret O’Brien, Smart D8 Tutor
OVERVIEW: this workshop educated students on the “4 Pillars of Health”—nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management—within a relaxed “wellness café” setting.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Engaging format with adaptable content suitable for diverse age groups;
- Visual aids reinforced key messages, making information more actionable;
- Icebreaker activities and interactive methods, such as games, successfully encouraged open dialogue about mental health and fostered a comfortable discussion space.
3. Sound Bath Session
DATE: January 17th
FACILITATOR: Simone Meschnig, Smart D8 Tutor
OVERVIEW: the session introduced participants to the concept of sound baths, creating a deeply relaxing experience through the use of various instruments. A light-hearted introduction helped ease participants, many of whom were unfamiliar with the practice.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Participants were guided through the experience with clear expectations;
- The environment was warm and inviting, contributing to the overall relaxation;
- A short humming practice at the end encouraged attendees to use sound as a tool for self-regulation in moments of stress or anxiety.
A Meaningful Impact
These initiatives engaged approximately 70 people (both students and teachers), fostering a greater awareness of personal wellbeing and mental health. Health & Wellbeing Week 2025 at ICFE showcased the power of student-led initiatives and expert collaborations, leaving participants with practical tools to support their ongoing health and wellness journey.
By continuously refining these programs based on participant feedback, Smart D8 remains committed to enhancing community health and wellbeing through impactful, accessible and inclusive initiatives.