University of Northern Philippines students embraced mindfulness and self-growth at the UNP Gymnasium on March 10–11, 2026, as the Guidance and Counseling Services of OSAS launched ‘Breathe and Bloom: A Mindful Growth Journey.’
The interactive sessions, designed for second- to fifth-year college students and Grades 8–9 Laboratory School students, provided practical tools in deep breathing and emotional resilience to help manage stress and enhance self-awareness.
On March 10, second-year college students participated in a hands-on session focused on breathing techniques designed to sharpen focus and strengthen emotional regulation. The following day, March 11, the program expanded to include third- through fifth-year college students as well as senior high school students, all engaging in exercises centered on cultivating inner calm and fostering personal growth.
Dr. Christian Gea Florentino, Bachelor of Science in Psychology Program Head and a dedicated learning resource provider, emphasized the often-overlooked power of breathing in managing stress. He explained that while breathing is a natural and everyday action, practicing it mindfully can significantly enhance emotional balance and overall well-being.
In his welcome address, Dr. Mariano Paterno Avila, Director of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS), encouraged participants to take the time to reflect and reconnect with themselves. He stressed that dedicating moments to truly know oneself is a fundamental marker of personal growth and self-awareness.
This initiative underscores UNP’s dedication to mental wellness, delivering responsive, sustainable programs that nurture students’ holistic development amid academic pressures.
