From November 14th to 17th, 2024, the Kohůtka mountain ridge transformed into a shelter of learning and relaxation for TBU Welcome Centre’s Wellbeing Weekend Cottage of Non-formal Education participants. This retreat, hosted at the UTB cottage straddling the Czech-Slovak border, brought together an enthusiastic group of nearly 20 participants for four days of enriching workshops, breathtaking nature, and shared meals by the fire.
The weekend kicked off with a communal effort to prepare welcome dinner. Participants cooked traditional Czech guláš and vegan lentil soup under the guidance of František Brázdilík, the weekend’s passionate organizer. The warm meal was complemented by lively conversations and ice-breaking games, setting the tone for the days to come.
Each day offered a mix of workshops and outdoor activities tailored to nurture both mind and body:
- Morning Focus Training: Innovative sessions, from sensory taste exercises to uplifting songs, helped participants start each day with positivity and mindfulness.
- Workshops: Engaging discussions on topics like cross-cultural communication, efficient study habits, and public speaking empowered attendees with practical skills and confidence.
- Nature Walks and Senses Meditation: Guided explorations of the surrounding forest allowed participants to connect deeply with nature, using all their senses to soak in the tranquillity of Kohůtka.
Afternoons brought free time for mushroom picking, group games, or simply relaxing in the cozy cottage.
Meal times were a highlight of the retreat. Participants shared favourite recipes, grilled their meals under a starlit sky, and occasionally opted for the nearby mountain restaurants. Evening barbecues and improvised cooking sessions added a delightful communal flavour to the weekend.
The Wellbeing Weekend Cottage offered more than just breathtaking views and hearty meals—it provided a space for growth, connection, and cultural exchange. Attendees left not only with new skills and friends but also with a refreshed spirit, ready to tackle the academic and personal challenges ahead.
For those who missed out, the good news is that the TBU Welcome Centre’s next Wellbeing Weekend Cottage of Non-formal Education will be organized again. Don’t forget to sign up and experience the magic for yourself!
For more information, please contact welcome-centre@utb.cz
