Wellbeing Calendar

Social activities

• Gen-Z and Social Change: Living Protest – 12 March 

  Gen-Z is a true protest generation. What is driving this generation? What is driving you?

  The current generation of students is a protest generation. A whopping 44% of the current generation of students in the Netherlands has participated in political action in the past five years, far exceeding the previous generations. And who can blame them? Students today inherit a world fraught with issues. From rising temperatures and ocean levels, to rising income and wealth inequalities. From the loom of war in our lands, to the horrible realities of wars around the world. 

  It can get, all in all, a bit overwhelming. What to do? Where to start? While increasing numbers of people have taken to the streets in protest over the last couple of years, taking this step can be quite daunting. In this second event on Gen-Z and Social Change, 3D will therefore look into the reality of being a protestor. Through first-hand accounts and experiences, we want to take you straight into the action, and teach you about what to expect if and when you do decide to take to the streets. 

  Over the last couple of years, the Netherlands, Amsterdam, and the VU campus have seen protests happening. Drawing on the extensive experience of our friends of the SRVU with these acts of protesting, we will look into the reality of such protest movements. The Extinction Rebellion protests around the country, the Encampment on de VU campus last year, and many other protests that the SRVU has engaged in will be discussed, and the realities of being in the thick of it will be shared. 

  If you are wondering how to voice your discontent, are considering joining a protest movement, or are simply wondering about the day-to-day realities of fighting for justice, then please join us at 3D on 12 March from 16:30 to 18:00. 

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Thursday, 12 March 2026 16:30 - 18:00
  • Location: 3D | VU Dialogue Stage
  • Audience: VU students
  • Language: English
  • Organised by 3D.

• Community Iftar – 12 March (fully booked!)

  Join us while we break our fast with good company!

  Looking for a place to break your fast, to connect, and to share a deliciously cooked meal together? Join us for this evening of good food and even better company and contemplate with us for a bit! 

  On March 12, NEWConnective organises an iftar in collaboration with the Wereldhuis. Together we create space to meet over a delicious plate of food, curated by the in-house chefs of Wereldhuis. Everyone is welcome, regardless of what you do or don’t believe in. 

  Programme

  Walk-in starts at 6 pm. Both NEWConnective and the Wereldhuis will share a bit about our work. Next, at the prescribed time, we will break the fast together with some dates. (There will be room to pray for those that want to). The chefs from the Wereldhuis will have prepared a wonderful dinner for us! The rest of evening will be very laid-back; we will have chit-chats and enjoy each other’s company. Around 9 pm the evening ends and we return home with a full heart and belly!

  About the Wereldhuis 

  The Wereldhuis is a space in Amsterdam that works with and for undocumented migrants. They offer space for the individual needs of people who live in Amsterdam, whether it is Dutch lessons, a plate of food or friendship. 

  Who is NEWConnective? 

  NEWConnective is the VU platform for life's bigger questions. We organise events for students, in which the themes range from anything from grief and friendship to belonging on campus and spirituality. If you have any questions about this event or about us, don't hesitate to send us an email on newconnective@vu.nl!

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Thursday, 12 March 2026 18:00 - 21:00
  • Location: De Kas, Nieuwe Herengracht 18 (ring the doorbell at de Diaconie)
  • This event is fully booked, sign-up has therefore been closed.
  • Organised by NEWConnective

• Monthly Volunteer Day Green Office VU – 14 March

  In March, the next Monthly Volunteer Day will be in collaboration with the VU Green Office. 🌈

  This time we’ve partnered with Buurtboerderij Gliphoeve, a community farm based in Bijlmer. 🐓
  
  ✨Buurtboerderij Gliphoeve is an accessible meeting place with a learning center for young people and (young) adults.

  🙋‍♀️ Help us by running the farm, taking care of the animals, and supporting visitors needs.

  Are you interested? Please sign up here. If you have any questions, DM us! 

  Practical information

  🗓️ Saturday, 14 March
  🕦 11:00 - 16:00 
  📍 Buurtboerderij Gliphoeve, Geldershoofd 79, 1103 BG Amsterdam
  
  See you soon 🦜

• Film screening Our Blue World – 16 March

  💧 What happens when ancestral wisdom meets modern science to solve the water crisis?

  Join us for an inspiring screening of Our Blue World, a documentary that explores our deep connection with water and shows how our choices can help rebalance the planet’s water systems. Through real stories of hope, the film highlights how communities facing droughts and floods found practical ways to move toward a cleaner, healthier water future for all.

  We hope to see you there for an evening of reflection, inspiration, and action.

  Practical information

  📅 Monday, 16 March
  ⏰ from 16:00 onwards
  📍 HG‑KC18, Green Office in the Main Building.

  Check out Instagram to see what else the Green Office does!

• Against the tide? Conservatism on campus – 16 March

  For years, the world seemed to increasingly embrace progressive ideals, but looking at the results of many big elections over the last decade, one can’t help but think this momentum has all but disappeared.

  The conservative narrative is back from never having been fully gone, and has secured electoral victories with slogans that seem primarily to want to restore some good old time. Meanwhile, the university and its population get a scolding. We are too elitist and too woke. We are out of touch with the concerns of ordinary citizens. And while we preach inclusion, conservative views are in actuality not tolerated. At least, that is the indictment. 

  On 16 March 16:00 (that’s 4 PM for Americans), 3D will venture outside of the ivory tower. In a dialogue with prominent conservative and Theologist of the Netherlands, prof. dr. Arnold Huijgen, we will discuss this interesting movement, which is so rarely heard on campus. Is our society indeed turning more conservative? Is there really so little space on university campuses for the conservative viewpoint? And, not unimportant, to what extent is that new and successful, populist reactionary conservative sound áctual conservatism? Together with all present, we will seek to answer these questions, and more. 

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Monday, 16 March 2026 4:00 – 5:30 pm
  • Location: debate centre 3D, in the W&N building across the volleyball fields
  • Audience: VU students and staff
  • Language: English
  • Free event
  • Please sign up here
  • For questions you can send an email to 3D.

• Pub quiz – 18 March

  Are you a walking encyclopedia, do you know everything about everything? Join our Pub quiz if you are up for a challenge!

  You can find all information and the registration form on our Insta or join our Whatsapp group! If you don't have Insta, you can sign up here. For other questions, you can send us an email at 3D@vu.nl.

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Thursday, 12 March 2026 from 18:00 (you can come later if you want and you decide when you want to leave :-)
  • Location: 3D room
  • Audience: VU students
  • Language: English and Dutch
  • Insta
  • WhatsApp group
  • Sign up here if you don't have Insta
  • For further questions, you can send an email to 3D@vu.nl.

• Anime movie night – 18 March

  Do you want to have a cozy movie night with snacks, while meeting new people? Join our anime movie night!

  Check our Whatsapp group to vote for your favorite anime movie to watch that night! You can find all information and the registration form on our Insta or join our Whatsapp group! If you don't have Insta, you can sign up here. For other questions, you can send us an email at 3D@vu.nl.

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Wednesday, 18 March 2026 from 18:00 (you can come later if you want and you decide when you want to leave :-)
  • Location: 3D room
  • Audience: VU students
  • Language: English and Dutch
  • Insta
  • WhatsApp group
  • Sign up here if you don't have Insta
  • For further questions, you can send an email to 3D@vu.nl.

• Book club – 19 March

  The days of reading books outside in the sun are coming! Come read some books and meet fellow book lovers at our Life is Better in 3D Book club!

  You can find all information and the registration form on our Insta or join our Whatsapp group! If you don't have Insta, you can sign up here. For other questions, you can send us an email at 3D@vu.nl.

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Thursday, 19 March 2026 from 17:00 (you can come later if you want and you decide when you want to leave :-)
  • Location: 3D room
  • Audience: VU students
  • Language: English and Dutch
  • Insta
  • WhatsApp group
  • Sign up here if you don't have Insta
  • For further questions, you can send an email to 3D@vu.nl.

• Study Session – 20 March

  Still some studying to do for finals? Come learn in a cozy environment that feels like a living room with our Study Session!

  You can find all information and the registration form on our Insta or join our Whatsapp group! If you don't have Insta, you can sign up here. For other questions, you can send us an email at 3D@vu.nl.

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Friday, 20 March 2026 from 12:00 (you can come later if you want and you decide when you want to leave :-)
  • Location: 3D room
  • Audience: VU students
  • Language: English and Dutch
  • Insta
  • WhatsApp group
  • Sign up here if you don't have Insta
  • For further questions, you can send an email to 3D@vu.nl.

• Study Session – 23 March

  Still some studying to do for finals? Come learn in a cozy environment that feels like a living room with our Study Session!

  You can find all information and the registration form on our Insta or join our Whatsapp group! If you don't have Insta, you can sign up here. For other questions, you can send us an email at 3D@vu.nl.

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Monday, 23 March 2026 from 13:00 (you can come later if you want and you decide when you want to leave :-)
  • Location: 3D room
  • Audience: VU students
  • Language: English and Dutch
  • Insta
  • WhatsApp group
  • Sign up here if you don't have Insta
  • For further questions, you can send an email to 3D@vu.nl.

• Board game night – 23 March

  Do you want to meet new people and play a lot of different board games with snacks? Come to the Life is Better in 3D Board Game Night!

  You can find all information and the registration form on our Insta or join our Whatsapp group! If you don't have Insta, you can sign up here. For other questions, you can send us an email at 3D@vu.nl.

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Monday, 23 March 2026 from 18:00 (you can come later if you want and you decide when you want to leave :-)
  • Location: 3D room
  • Audience: VU students
  • Language: English and Dutch
  • Insta
  • WhatsApp group
  • Sign up here if you don't have Insta
  • For further questions, you can send an email to 3D@vu.nl.

• In Conversation: dialogue session VU community #3 – 24 March

  What if we created more space at VU for real conversations about war, peace, academic freedom and our wellbeing as a community? Join the third university-wide dialogue on 24 March 2026: 'In Conversation'.

  Why this series?
  In Conversation is a year-long dialogue series that creates space for open and respectful conversations within the VU community. Together, we explore how we deal with social tensions, differences of opinion and the search for connection. 

  This series is part of an broader national initiative by Dutch universities to strengthen dialogue on academic freedom. At VU, we give it our own meaning by talking, listening and learning together.

  What to expect
  An open and safe gathering where everyone at VU is welcome: students, lecturers, researchers and support staff. You, as a participant, decide which themes we will discuss. You do not need to prepare anything. Together, we will discover what matters to us and where the conversation leads.

  You can expect:

  • Space to talk about what truly concerns you
  • Small dialogue groups guided by trained facilitators
  • Encounters between students and staff from different faculties and backgrounds
  • A collective reflection without names or judgments

  Possible conversation themes include:

  • The role of the university in times of war and peace
  • Freedom of speech and academic freedom
  • Wellbeing, safety and connection on campus
  • Living together in a diverse community

  Join us!
  Every voice matters. Whether you are a student, researcher, lecturer or staff member, your participation helps bring different perspectives to the table. Together we make VU a place where genuine dialogue can grow. 

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Tuesday, 24 March 2026, time still t.b.d. 
  • Location: t.b.d.
  • Language: English 
  • Organised by: CTL, 3D and the Network Science in Dialogue

• Game night with Boosted Gryffins – 27 March

  It's-a me, Mario! Join for a game night with the Boosted Gryffins!

  From 18:00 we'll be playing all kinds of video games! Feel free to join for however long you want. You can find all information and the registration form on our Insta or join our Whatsapp group! If you don't have Insta, you can sign up here. For other questions, you can send us an email at 3D@vu.nl.

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Friday, 27 March 2026 from 18:00 (you can come later if you want and you decide when you want to leave :-)
  • Location: 3D room
  • Audience: VU students
  • Language: English and Dutch
  • Insta
  • WhatsApp group
  • Sign up here if you don't have Insta
  • For further questions, you can send an email to 3D@vu.nl.

• Far-right ideology: our campus and society – 30 March

  A conversation about tolerance, safety and our sphere of influence

  Experts point to a return of far-right ideology, neo-fascist tendencies, and their normalization in our society. Our VU campus is no exception. In response to an incident on the VU campus last November, theater maker Simcha Zijlstra and former Member of Parliament Daniëlle Hirsch recently wrote in Het Parool: "If we truly want to learn from history, we must acknowledge that the Holocaust, the murder of 6 million Jews, was the outcome of a horribly recognizable process that is still unfolding worldwide today. That process begins with normalizing it." Danielle and Simcha believe that intervention is necessary. This means, for example, that we should not commemorate the Holocaust as an unrepeatable and unique event, but as a man-made disaster that can happen again, in a new guise, with new victims, fueled by the same mechanisms of hatred, dehumanization, and apathy as in the 1930s and 1940s.

  But what does this mean for the presence of far-right sympathies on our campus, and how does this fit into a broader picture of exclusion and the undermining of democracy and the rule of law? Is this fascism or not? And if so, why do we find it difficult to call it that? What can we, as the VU community, do within our broader society to collectively help halt this process?

  Join the discussion with Simcha and Danielle in 3D on March 30th. During this meeting, we aim to create space for discussion about fear and perceived powerlessness on our campus and the university's perspectives for action in relation to society.

  Simcha Zijlstra is a theater maker and activist. Danielle Hirsch is an economist and former Member of Parliament for GroenLinks/PvdA.

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Monday, 30 March 2026 4:00 – 5:30 pm
  • Location: debate centre 3D, in the W&N building across the volleyball fields
  • Audience: VU students and staff
  • Language: English
  • Free event
  • Please sign up here
  • For questions you can send an email to 3D.

• Latin ballroom workshop – 31 March

  Join us for a fun Ballroom Latin workshop where you'll learn basic steps of some typical dance styles like Cha cha!

  You can find all information and the registration form on our Insta or join our Whatsapp group! If you don't have Insta, you can sign up here. For other questions, you can send us an email at 3D@vu.nl.

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Tuesday, 31 March 2026 from 18:00 (you can come later if you want and you decide when you want to leave :-)
  • Location: 3D room
  • Audience: VU students
  • Language: English and Dutch
  • Insta
  • WhatsApp group
  • Sign up here if you don't have Insta
  • For further questions, you can send an email to 3D@vu.nl.

• Walk during your day @VU – 2 April

  On Thursday, April 2nd is the national Walk While You Work Day. From VU in Motion, we are of course participating - but in a VU way: Walk During Your VU Day! Will you walk with us?

  Walking is the way to combine health, productivity and fun during your day at VU. Get away from your screen, get some fresh air, recharge your batteries and catch up with colleagues and fellow students. Because a short walk does wonders for your focus, creativity and mood.

  Programme

  • 12:45 - Gather at the Student Wellbeing Point (SWP).
  • 12:55 - Start of a walk (max. 30 minutes)
  • ±13.25 - Back at the SWP for coffee or tea and a delicious banana sandwich

  Whether you come for the exercise, the fun or the banana bread: you are most welcome. Bring your colleagues and college friends - together is more fun!

  Bonus: among all participants we raffle a nice individual prize.

  Sign up quickly!

  See you then!

• In Conversation: dialogue session VU community #4 – 14 April

  What if we created more space at VU for real conversations about war, peace, academic freedom and our wellbeing as a community? Join the fourth university-wide dialogue on 14 April 2026: 'In Conversation'.

  Why this series?
  In Conversation is a year-long dialogue series that creates space for open and respectful conversations within the VU community. Together, we explore how we deal with social tensions, differences of opinion and the search for connection. 

  This series is part of an broader national initiative by Dutch universities to strengthen dialogue on academic freedom. At VU, we give it our own meaning by talking, listening and learning together.

  What to expect
  An open and safe gathering where everyone at VU is welcome: students, lecturers, researchers and support staff. You, as a participant, decide which themes we will discuss. You do not need to prepare anything. Together, we will discover what matters to us and where the conversation leads.

  You can expect:

  • Space to talk about what truly concerns you
  • Small dialogue groups guided by trained facilitators
  • Encounters between students and staff from different faculties and backgrounds
  • A collective reflection without names or judgments

  Possible conversation themes include:

  • The role of the university in times of war and peace
  • Freedom of speech and academic freedom
  • Wellbeing, safety and connection on campus
  • Living together in a diverse community

  Join us!

  Every voice matters. Whether you are a student, researcher, lecturer or staff member, your participation helps bring different perspectives to the table. Together we make VU a place where genuine dialogue can grow. 

  Practical information

  • Date: Tuesday 14 April 2026 
  • Time: t.b.d. 
  • Location: t.b.d.
  • Language: English 
  • Organised by: CTL, 3D and the Network Science in Dialogue

• Open stage – 16 April

  You can once again join 3D for Open Stage evenings organized by students from the Bachelor's in Creative Writing and Master's in Literary Studies.

  An evening to enjoy each other's readings. And an opportunity to present something yourself, such as a short story, poetry, a column, or a song. It all comes down to your own creativity. You have complete freedom to try something out, alone or with others.

  Would you like to present something? Send a message to Naomi at n.a.bak@student.vu.nl or +31 6 3092 9237. Please keep your presentation to a maximum of ten minutes. And of course, you must show up. But even if you don't want to present anything and just want to listen, you're more than welcome.

  The evening starts at 7:00 p.m. There's an opportunity to eat together beforehand in the VU canteen (around 6:00 p.m). You can grab something there, or bring your own food and heat it up.

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Thursday, 16 April & 26 June 2026 19:00 – 21:00 
  • Location: debate centre 3D, in the W&N building across the volleyball fields
  • Audience: VU students and staff
  • Language: Mainly Dutch
  • Free event
  • No need to sign up, only let us now if you want to present something by sending an email 
  • For questions you can send an email to Naomi.

Sports & wellbeing

• Pickleball Amstelveen Open – 22 March

  On Sunday 22 March 2026, we will be organising the Pickleball Amstelveen Open 2026!

  Since November 2025, pickleball has been played enthusiastically at Sportcentrum VU, so it's time for the very first edition of this tournament.

  The tournament is open to everyone, from beginners to experienced players. We therefore have different categories.

  Categories

  • Men's doubles: 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0+
  • Women's doubles: 3.0, 3.5 and 4.0+

  No partner? No problem! Just sign up. Once you have found a partner, you can send a message to the tournament organiser.
  Please note: each player must register separately and pay the registration fee.

  Matches
  Each player will play at least four matches.

  Practical information

  • Date: Sunday,  22 March 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Location: Sportcentrum VU, Uilenstede
  • Registration fee: €15 per person. To register for the tournament, please complete this registration form. You can pay the registration fee here.
  • You can see the registered participants on the Tournify page, where you can also find the standings and results on the day itself.
  • For your information: parking is free at Uilenstede on Sundays, but parking spaces will be scarce.

  Organisation

  This tournament is organised by Pim Huberts.

• HYROX VU Simulation:  2nd edition – 29 March

  After a successful first edition, we kept hearing one question over and over again: “When is the next one?”. Good news: the second HYROX VU Simulation is scheduled for March 29!Experience again (or for the first time) what it's like to complete a full HYROX race.

  Preparing for HYROX?
  Follow our HYROX Training Club group lessons and use this simulation as the ultimate test towards a real HYROX race.

  Dates & Tickets
  Sunday, March 29, 2026

  Singles
  Check-in: 10:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
  Opening & explanation: 10:15 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
  Start simulation: 10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
  Tickets: €10 student | €20 regular

  Buy your singles ticket here

  Doubles (per team)
  Check-in: 2:00 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.
  Opening & Explanation: 2:15 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
  Start simulation: 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  Tickets: €20 student | €40 regular

  Buy your doubles ticket here

  Please note: If you want to buy a ticket at the student price, make sure you are registered as a student in our system before purchasing a ticket. Please come to the desk and show your registration.

  More information

• Connective breathwork – 31 March

  During this session you will experience connected breathing, a guided breathing technique that can help release tension and bring more awareness to the body. 

  During this session you will get acquainted with connected breathing, a breathing technique in which the inhale and exhale flow into each other without a pause. This way of breathing can help release tension, calm the nervous system and increase body awareness. For some people it may also bring up emotions that usually receive less space. 

  The afternoon begins with an arrival meditation in which you can gently settle into your body and the space. After that there will be a short explanation of connected breathing. A certified breath coach will then guide the connected breath session itself. 

  After the breathing experience there will be time to lie down and allow the experience to integrate. We will close with a short sharing moment where participants can share what they experienced. 

  The session will take place on March 31 from 4:00 to 5:30 PM in a room next to the Mindful Library on the twelfth floor of the VU library. 

  The session is free and accessible for VU students (and possibly staff). 

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Tuesday, 31 March 2026 15:40 - 17:30
  • Location: HG-12B02 (Main Building, next to the Mindful Library on the twelfth floor of the VU library)
  • Audience: VU students (and possibly staff)
  • Please sign up here
  • Organised by NEWConnective.

• Spring Grief Café – 1 April

  Are you mourning the loss of someone dear to you? Join this open space for grief. You’re welcome to share your experience, as well as listen to others’ experiences.

  Our Grief Cafés are a low-key way to share about your mourning experience. It’s an open space, in which everyone is invited to speak about their process and feelings. 

  A bit scared to join? No worries: we have built in ways to communicate the degree in which you want to share; so you can also join the Grief Café if you are unsure about how much you want to open up.

  What to expect?

  After a short walk-in, we'll introduce the Grief Café and open up the space with a small reading of poetry and lighting a candle. We have brought questions with us, that we will discuss taking turns. This way, everyone can share about their experiences and listen to those of others. After we have discussed the questions, we will have a little wind down with coffee and tea. After this, you can share your own questions and thoughts. You're welcome to join, whether it's your first time talking about your experience or it's something you speak about regularly.

  Programme

  • 4:00: Walk-in with coffee and tea 
  • 4:10: Short introduction 
  • 4:15: Guided conversation 
  • 5:00: Summary and round-off 
  • 5:10: Coffee and tea to wind down
  • 5:30: End of the Grief Café

  Practical information

  • Date & time: Wednesday, 1 April 2026 16:00 - 17:30
  • Location: 3D room
  • It is not necessary to sign up!
  • Organised by: NEWConnective

• Mourning Group – 12 May to 30 June

  NEWConnective organizes a Mourning Group for students who are mourning someone who has passed away.

  There is no manual for mourning. Everyone grieves in their own unique way.

  Death is part of life, but that does not lessen the impact it has on your life. The sadness can be so overwhelming that it may feel like your whole world has collapsed and seems like life has lost all its luster. Your concentration can drop, which in turn can affect your study results. You may feel empty and aimless, angry, withdrawn, or confused still. At first, people are caring and concerned, but after a while, it can seem like no one has room for your grief anymore. The sadness is something that stays and that is normal. There is no manual for mourning. Everyone grieves in their own unique way. A grief group of students who have experienced something similar can offer you support. 

  What is the mourning group? The group consists of a 1 on 1 intake moment with Lenneke the facilitator of the group. And six group sessions, in which you can share your experiences with loss. Lenneke occasionally provides background information on aspects of grief. 

  The purpose of the mourning group is to share stories and find recognition in the emotions and experiences of others, within a free and safe space for every participant. 

  Is this the place for me? The group is open to every student in Amsterdam, regardless of background or belief. The only condition is that the loss you wish to discuss is not very recent. If you have any doubts about this, please email us and we will discuss it together. Prior to participation, there will be an intake interview in which you will meet Lenneke and discuss your needs.

  Practical information

  There is space for six students in the group. You can register by sending an email to newconnective@vu.nl.  

  Dates of the intake interviews:

  • Intake interviews 1: Tuesday, 5 May, between 16.00 and 19.00.
  • Intake intervieuws 2: Wednesday, 6 May, between 16.00 and 19.00.

  Dates of the mourning group:

  • Session 1: Tuesday, 12 May, 17.00 - 19.00.
  • Session 2: Tuesday,  19 May, 17.00 - 19.00.
  • Session 3: Tuesday, 26 May, 17.00 - 19.00.
  • Session 4: Tuesday, 2 June, 17.00 - 19.00.
  • Session 5: Tuesday, 9 June, 17.00 - 19.00.
  • Session 6: Tuesday, 16 June, 17.00 - 19.00.
  • Session 7: Tuesday, 23 June, 17.00 - 19.00.
  • Session 8: Tuesday, 30 June, 17.00 - 19.00.

  The location is yet to be announced.

• Meditation sessions – every Tuesday & Thursday

  Need a break? Come and join our meditation sessions in the VU Stilteruimte (HG 1A-53) and in the Mindful Library (HG 12B-02) - we offer sessions two times a week.

  More and more people meditate, they do so because of mental health, and longing for rest, focus or balance. Some meditate because of the stress-reducing effects or because of their religious or ideological beliefs. Whatever your reason may be for meditating, it is often easier to do so in communities, where you can make friends and share experiences. So, join us for weekly meditation sessions.

  In 20 to 30-minutes sessions, guided meditations will be offered. These meditations will be on Tuesday and Thursday from 1:00 to 1:30 PM. You can find more (and up to date) information on this page.

  It doesn’t matter if you have a load of meditation experience, or if you are just a beginner. No need to bring anything; mats, cushions, and stools are provided. Just wear something that will sit comfortably on your body for 20 to 30 minutes. 

  You are very welcome to use the Silence Room (HG-1A53) for whatever ideological or religious silence practice when no activities take place. 

  If you want to stay up to date, join our Whatsapp chat for any last-minute updates and changes in the schedule. Here, you can also connect with others who are interested in meditation and mindfulness! 

• VU in Motion – every Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday

  You are welcome to join us for a short, fun exercise break during your work or study day! Just wear your regular clothes!

  Programme
  On Tuesdays and Thursdays at 12:30, we will offer 15 minutes of Qi Gong, which will be held outside on the campus square again until October, close to the new Calisthenics park.

  Following on from Qi Gong, there will be free walk-in Calisthenics on Tuesdays and Thursdays until 13:15. This means that there will be an instructor present who can offer you some help and inspiration with the equipment at the Calisthenics park, no strings attached!

  On Wednesday at 12:15 p.m. it is time for Standing Yoga, which starts in the hall of the OZW.

  VU in Motion   
  VU in Motion aims to get employees and students to move a little more on and around the VU Campus. It has been scientifically proven that (more) movement leads to (more) physical and mental health. VU is also part of the sitting culture that has almost replaced natural movement worldwide. And we want to change that! Each week we will provide a tip or a fun fact to encourage you to meet one of the three movement guidelines. These guidelines for adults and seniors are as follows:   

  • Movement is good; more movement is better. Do at least 150 (preferably 210) minutes per week of moderate-intensity exercise, spread over several days.   
  • Do 2-3x/week an intensive(er) workout of 30-60 min, focusing on strength and conditioning, for the elderly additionally combined with balance exercises.   
  • And avoid sitting still! In other words, half an hour of movement/sports a day cannot compensate for the damage of further prolonged sitting still. 2 minutes of moderate-intensity movement every 20 minutes has very positive effects.

  Qi Gong is an ancient Chinese movement form that not only strengthens your body, but balances your whole being (body, mind and spirit) by activating the vital life energy, or Qi. This life energy flows through your body via meridians (energy pathways that run through your body and connect all organs). By practising Qi Gong, these meridians can be activated and balanced, leading to greater vitality and inner peace. It improves flexibility and mobility, strengthens the immune system, increases energy, reduces stress, improves focus and concentration, and increases emotional balance and breathing. A short 15-minute Qi Gong session already gives great results, so perfect for an invigorating break activity!

Workshops & training sessions

• Three ways to improve your study Module 1: The negative spiral – 12 March 

  Psychologists reveal: THREE WAYS to improve your study (and personal) life!!!

  You are ready to change (the way you study), but are not sure how to get started. 

  This module is part of three short modules offered by the VU student psychological counsellors. The focus is on themes that students regularly tell us they struggle with: procrastination, stress and feeling stuck in a negative spiral. 

  The aim of each module is to give you insights into your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviours - and a set of practical tools that you can use when you hit the books. 

  A series consists of three modules that you can follow consecutively or separately. It is not obligatory to do all three; you sign up for a single module. This makes it more easily accessible and demand driven. The modules may also be a nice refresher for students who previously met with a student psychological counsellor or completed a training or workshop! 

  In this module we take a closer look at the negative spiral (also known as a vicious circle) you can get stuck in. This is an exercise from cognitive behavioural therapy which gives insight into the connection between what you think, feel, and do. This approach also gives you tools on how to break the spiral. 

  Other modules in the series:

  • Working on... finding your personal balance
  • Working on… taking action 

  Dates 

  • Thursday, 12 March 2026, 13:00-14:00 (VU campus)
  • Wednesday, 6 May 2026, 10:00-11:00 (VU campus).

  This module is also offered in Dutch. For more information and registration go to this page.

  Check out the full range of workshops and training courses on the page Courses to optimize studying.  

• Three ways to improve your study Module 2: Balance and relaxation – 19 March

  Psychologists reveal: THREE WAYS to improve your study (and personal) life!!!

  You are ready to change (the way you study), but are not sure how to get started. 

  This module is part of three modules offered by the VU student psychological counsellors. The focus is on themes that students regularly tell us they struggle with: procrastination, stress and feeling stuck in a negative spiral. 

  The aim of each module is to give you insights into your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviours - and a set of practical tools that you can use when you hit the books. 

  A series consists of three modules that you can follow consecutively or separately. It is not obligatory to do all three; you sign up for a single module. This makes it more easily accessible and demand driven. The modules may also be a nice refresher for students who previously met with a student psychological counsellor or completed a training or workshop! 

  In this module it is all about balance. When experiencing problems with procrastination or motivation, but also with stress, it is important to look at how you deal with your own energy distribution. Do you spend too much time on your studies, or too little? How do you recognise the signals your body gives that it is time to pump the brakes? With our help, take the first steps towards achieving a better balance. 

  Other modules in the series:

  • Working on... understanding your negative spiral
  • How to… take action

  Dates

  • Thursday, 19 March 2026, 13:00-14:00 (VU campus)
  • Wednesday, 13 May 2026, 10:00-11:00 (VU campus).

  This module is also offered in Dutch. For more information and registration go to this page.

  Check out the full range of workshops and training courses on the page Courses to optimize studying. 

• Three ways to improve your study Module 3: Take action – 2 April 

  Psychologists reveal: THREE WAYS to improve your study (and personal) life!!!

  You are ready to change (the way you study), but are not sure how to get started. 

  This module is part of three modules offered by the VU student psychological counsellor. The focus is on themes that students regularly tell us they struggle with: procrastination, stress and feeling stuck in a negative spiral. 

  The aim of each module is to give you insights into your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviours - and a set of practical tools that you can use when you hit the books. 

  A series consists of three modules that you can follow consecutively or separately. It is not obligatory to do all three; you sign up for a single module. This makes it more easily accessible and demand driven. The modules may also be a nice refresher for students who previously met with a student psychological counsellor or completed a training or workshop! 

  In this module we work on behaviour. Sometimes you want to change, but where do you start? We spend time on helping you gain an overview, of both your short- and long-term plans. This is about taking action and getting a grip on your day. Useful for everyone: whether you procrastinate, like to socialise, or cannot see the wood for the trees. 

  Other modules in the series:

  • Working on... understanding your negative spiral
  • Working on... finding your personal balance

  Dates

  • Thursday, 2 April 2026, 13:00-14:00 (VU campus)
  • Wednesday, 20 May 2026, 10:00-11:00 (VU campus).

  This module is also offered in Dutch. For more information and registration go to this page.

  Check out the full range of workshops and training courses on the page Courses to optimize studying.

• Improve your concentration – 8 & 15 April (online)

  Get a grip on your attention again!

  Can you hardly bring yourself to read this text? Do you automatically reach for your smartphone when it's next to you? Does your mind constantly wander when you are at work? Can't close yourself off from the people or sounds around you? Do you often feel rushed and do less than you would like to? Do you lie in bed with a full head?

  It is time for a different approach! In this workshop you get a grip on your attention again. You learn about the ins and outs of attention management and you practise with various concentration techniques. After this course: You know how your brain deals with distractions. You discover how you can better arm yourself against these distractions. You will experience more peace in your head and body.

  This training course includes 2 sessions and will take place on: 

  • Wednesday, 8 & 15 April 2026, 18:30 - 21:30 (online).

  This training course is also offered in Dutch. For more information and registration go to this page.

  Check out the full range of workshops and training courses on the page Courses to optimize studying.

• Work on your fear of failure – 20 May, 3 & 17 June, 1 & 15 July 2026

  In this training course you will learn to understand your own fear of failure and gain insight in your study-related stress. 

  Do you understand the material, but you still fail your exams? Is there so much to do that you can only focus on studying, or that you can do nothing at all? Do you experience so much stress before a deadline that you decide to just leave it? Do you procrastinate, have issues with concentration or motivation because an exam incites so much stress? Or do you put so much of your time and energy into studying that you do not have any fun or rest any more?

  In this training you will learn to understand your own fear of failure and gain insight in your study-related stress. Alongside various exercises and assignments you will learn how to be more in control and break your own vicious circle of anxiety. The goal is to learn to be more relaxed about studying, and about other worries that are in the way of an optimal performance.

  This training course includes 5 sessions and will take place on:

  • Wednesday, 20 May, 3 & 17 June, 1 & 15 July 2026 (22 July)^*, 13:00-15:00 (VU campus).

  ^{* back-up date}

  The training course is also offered in Dutch. For more information and registration go to this page.

  Check out the full range of workshops and training courses on the page Courses to optimize studying.

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