SOCIAL CHANGE THROUGH EMOTIONAL WELLNESS

Emotional Wellness WORKSHOPS
at G.D. GOENKA International SCHOOL, GREATER NOIDA 50 Teachers and
390 STUDENTS

EMOTIONAL WELLNESS WORKSHOPS

Date - 30 August 2025

Session - Emotional Wellness Workshop
Trainer - Ms. Parveen Gautam & Ms. Khushi Chopra
Teachers - 50

Sleepwell Foundation conducted a workshop on Proactive Emotional Wellness for 50 teachers at GD Goenka International School, Greater Noida, on 30th August 2025. The session aimed to help educators develop a deeper understanding of emotions, the importance of acknowledging emotional experiences, and strategies for self-care and emotional wellness.

The workshop began with an interactive ice-breaker to build rapport and distinguish between thoughts and emotions. A visual of nine core emotions with Indian roots sparked engaging discussions on emotional variability. Teachers explored how emotional pain is often overlooked compared to physical pain and examined common myths and cognitive distortions like denial, rationalization, and escapism.

Real-life examples and open dialogue helped participants relate emotionally to their professional contexts. The session also addressed stigma around mental health and emphasized using everyday language to talk about emotions.

It concluded with a calming box-breathing exercise and reflective feedback, leaving teachers feeling empowered, understood, and better equipped to support emotional wellness.

Date - 9 August 2024

Session - Stop Bullying Workshop
Trainer - Ms. Parveen Gautam & Ms. Pratima Virwani
Students - 170

Date - 2 May 2024

Session - Gender Sensitization Workshop
Trainer - Ms. Parveen Gautam & Ms. Pratima Virwani
Students - 220

The workshop was held in two batches; from Standard 6th – 8th and Standard 11th and 12th owing to the age difference among the participants.

The Gender Sensitization workshop aimed to explore the concept of gender and sex, its societal implications, and the need to challenge stereotypes. It sought to foster understanding, empathy, and inclusivity among participants.

The workshop opened through an ice-breaking activity, reflecting on the experiences of the students related to gender roles, revealing personal insights into societal expectations and individual desires.

An interactive discussion on the meaning of gender commenced, exploring the difference between sex and gender, and understanding that while sex refers to biological characteristics, gender encompasses socially constructed roles, behaviors, and attributes. Participants delved into perceived differences between boys and girls, covering physical, behavioral, and emotional aspects, aiming to highlight how societal norms often dictate these distinctions, leading to stereotypes and biases. Through various examples, participants examined how gender roles manifest in different spheres of life, aiming to challenge preconceived notions and encourage critical thinking.

A brainstorming activity ensued, where participants viewed images depicting traditionally gendered roles, prompting reflection on the evolving nature of these roles in contemporary society, challenging stereotypes.

The workshop extended its focus to inclusivity, addressing the experiences of the third gender and LGBTQI community, fostering empathy and understanding.

The workshop was very successful as it received appreciation from the school psychologist, staff, and the school's Principal and Director. The interaction, discussion, and attentiveness shown by the young students were beyond expectations and very admirable.

Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and challenge societal norms, highlighting the importance of such workshops in fostering understanding and promoting inclusivity.