Pause and Refresh

Pause and Refresh – Wellness Initiative for Admissions and Support Staff organized by Centre for Academic and Professional Support (CAPS) in Collaboration with Public Relations Office on 02/07/2025 at Banquet Hall for Admissions Team and Support Staff conducted by Ms. Mansha Sawal As part of its ongoing commitment to promoting holistic development and institutional well-being, the Centre for Academic and Professional Support (CAPS), in collaboration with the Public Relations Office, organized a wellness initiative titled “Pause and Refresh.”

This session was thoughtfully curated for the Admissions Team and Support Staff, whose roles often involve emotionally demanding tasks, extended hours, and high interpersonal engagement, especially during peak admission periods.

The primary objective of this initiative was to promote mental well-being, alleviate occupational stress, and foster a sense of community and morale through structured relaxation and creative expression activities. The event was facilitated by Ms. Mansha Sawal and was designed with a balance of light-hearted engagement and reflective activities, creating a space for rest, connection, and rejuvenation. The session began with a lively icebreaker activity — Two Truths and a Lie — which set a warm, relaxed tone and encouraged personal sharing among participants. This was followed by a fun-filled round of “Pass the Ball,” where participants responded to questions related to university life and engaged in quick, cheerful tasks that sparked laughter and energy in the room. These interactive games promoted interpersonal bonding and allowed the staff to see each other beyond their work identities. A key highlight of the session was the Mandala Art Therapy activity.

Drawing from the principles of art therapy and positive psychology, this silent, individual-focused segment encouraged participants to engage in mindful coloring and pattern creation. Mandala art has been shown to aid in reducing stress, enhancing focus, and fostering inner calm — exactly the pause needed amidst a busy season. The quietude of this segment offered everyone a chance to reflect inwardly, express creativity, and reset mentally. The session also featured a customized “Pass the Parcel – Office Edition” game. Unlike traditional versions, this version included prompts that were professionally relevant but light-hearted—such as sharing one thing they love about their work or appreciating a colleague—which added both fun and appreciation to the atmosphere. To conclude the session, participants were treated to a chai break, allowing for informal conversations, relaxed networking, and reflection on the day’s activities in a casual setting. The warmth of shared conversations over tea created a sense of camaraderie and community spirit, reinforcing the importance of emotional support in the workplace.

The Pause and Refresh session was deeply appreciated by the participants. It not only provided a mental breather but also reminded staff members of the institution’s care for their well-being. Through creative activities, shared laughter, and meaningful engagement, the session successfully uplifted morale and encouraged a culture of wellness and gratitude within the university.