Commemorating the invaluable contributions and dedication of the teaching staff, Saint Louis University (SLU) held the annual Day of Pause at the Prince Bernhard Gym, Fr. Burgos Building, SLU Main Campus on 30 April 2024.
Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD, University President, through Atty. Yzanne P. Merced, SLU Vice President for Administration, opened the program by welcoming the teaching staff to the gathering. “In an increasingly fragmented world filled with incessant noise and ceaseless demands, it is imperative that we carve out moments of respite, tranquility, and rejuvenation. Let today be a perfect venue to pause, breathe, and prioritize self-care,” she remarked.
Thereafter, Mx. Riyan Portuguez, MP, RPm, PRsy, better known as Your Millennial Psychologist, gave the talk titled, “UNPLUG: Huwag Kang Bibitaw”.
Mx. Portuguez began by asking the well-being of their audience, identifying the indicators of stress, the mental spectrum, and self-care. In her talk she emphasized that self-care is not self-soothing and will not ameliorate all stress. “Self care is not always about indulgence. It is for us to confront our thoughts. It is different from self-soothing,” Mx. Portuguez stated.
The talk also featured a breathing exercise encouraging attendees to engage in self-reflection and to share insights and sensitivities with one another. Mx. Portuguez shared ways to take care of oneself through empathy and the concept of kapwa.
The question-and-answer portion then followed, centering on an enlightening conversation with Mx. Portuguez and the audience. A token of appreciation to the Millenial Psychologist was then given by Atty. Merced, which was then shortly followed by the closing remarks of Ms. Geraldine B. Sanil, HRD Director.
Ms. Sanil defined the Day of Pause as a momentary rest from their regular schedule. She said that this time gave “a fresh understanding and also an opportunity to listen to ourselves as persons– as employees of SLU…because we want a better workplace, which we deserve.” She also hopes that through this day, employees return to their workplaces with a fresh outlook and newfound insight.
The Day of Pause served as a gentle reminder to unplug from the digital noise, to detach from the pressures of work, and to reconnect with oneself and with others in meaningful ways. It was an opportunity to engage in activities that promote mental, emotional, and physical well-being, fostering a sense of balance and harmony in life.
On this day, classes, both synchronous and asynchronous, along with on-site activities, including internship within the SLU campus, were suspended for the entire day across all levels.
The Day of Pause conducted on 19 and 30 April for administration staff and academic staff, respectively, was spearheaded by the University’s Office of the Vice President for Administration through the Human Resource Department, Center for Counseling and Wellness (CCW), and Talged Center. It is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing) and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). (Article by Sarah Navalta, UIO Intern | Photos by EJ Doña, UIO Intern)
