From Stress to Strength: Learning, Growing and Connecting in Austria

Sep 9

2 min read

In August, participants from Bildung Nijmegen travelled to Neu-Nagelberg in Austria to take part in the Erasmus+ Training Course “Stress to Strength 2.0”.

Over ten days, participants from the Netherlands, Austria, Belgium, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Serbia and Türkiye came together to explore a subject that is increasingly relevant to young people and youth workers alike: how we experience stress, how we respond to it and how we can build greater resilience in everyday life.

Understanding stress and learning how to manage it

The training was not simply about reducing stress. It encouraged participants to better understand what happens when we experience it. How do our thoughts, emotions and beliefs influence the way we feel? How does the body respond to pressure? And what can help us deal with those experiences in a healthier and more conscious way?

Through movement, mindfulness, reflection and a range of non-formal learning activities, participants explored these questions in a practical and engaging way. Rather than simply talking about stress, they were given the space to experience different approaches, try them out for themselves and reflect together.

Learning across borders

For us, an Erasmus+ training course is also about the people you meet along the way. Bringing together participants from different countries, cultures and backgrounds created plenty of opportunities to exchange experiences and see familiar challenges from different perspectives.

Conversations about wellbeing and personal development naturally became part of a wider process of getting to know one another, learning from each other and building new connections.

It is this combination of learning, experience and international exchange that makes programmes like this so valuable. Participants return home not only with new knowledge and practical methods, but often with a different perspective on themselves and the people around them.

Learning is also about who you become

At Bildung Nijmegen, we believe that learning is about more than simply gaining knowledge or developing skills. It is also about understanding yourself better, having the space to grow and discovering what helps you become more confident, resilient and aware.

“Stress to Strength 2.0” reflected that approach beautifully. Stress does not always have to be seen simply as something negative or something to avoid. By understanding it better and learning how to respond to it, challenging moments can also become opportunities for reflection and personal growth.

It was a valuable experience filled with learning, movement, reflection, international encounters and new connections.

“Strength does not always mean carrying more, but learning how to carry things differently.”