Celebrating a decade of Thrive

This fall, the Queen’s community is invited to celebrate a decade of Thrive – a series of events focused on building positive mental health through discussion, learning, skill development, and resource sharing. This year’s events, taking place from Monday, Nov. 4 to Friday, Nov. 8, are open to all staff, faculty, and students, and focus on personal growth and resilience at Queen’s.

“Thrive Week is a unique opportunity for us to learn and grow together as a community,” says Sydney Downey, Director, Employee Wellness Services (Human Resources). “This year as we mark a decade of Thrive, we are incredibly fortunate to have received double the funding from our sponsor, Manulife, which has enabled us to offer even more diverse programming and activities. We look forward to celebrating together and continuing our shared journey of discovery, personal growth, and resilience at Queen’s.”

During Thrive Week, participants can engage in a wide range of activities and initiatives including a keynote presentation from Chancellor Shelagh Rogers. Chancellor Rogers is a veteran broadcast-journalist, an Honorary Witness for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, an Officer of the Order of Canada, and an inaugural winner of the Margaret Trudeau Award for mental health advocacy. On Monday, Nov. 4, she will host a virtual 90-minute keynote presentation as she shares her personal wellness journey about living with mental illness. Those interested in attending the session can register online.

Some additional featured events and opportunities to look forward to include:

• Queen’s Observatory Tour – An in-person session where participants will have access to the Queen's Observatory facilities which include the main Celestron 14-inch telescope, small solar telescopes, and the video screening room. Astronomers in the screening room and observatory dome will present the foundations of astronomical research, Observatory operations, and hot topics in astrophysics. 
• Mindful Presentation by the Great Wisdom Buddhist Nuns – A virtual mindfulness session to refresh and energize you and bring mindfulness to your daily life. The monastery for approximately 500 Buddhist nuns in based in Prince Edward Island. Their mission is to bring peace and positivity to the world through practices of wisdom and compassion. 
• Getting Restful Sleep – Participants will learn about circadian rhythms and the impact that disrupting these key biological processes can have on their day-to-day activities and work. This virtual seminar will also describe sleep's vital role in maintaining health along with valuable and practical tips and strategies that participants can apply to get quality, restful sleep and stay alert.
• Buzzing with Flavour: A Honey Tasting and Celebration of Pollinators – A sweet exploration where you'll discover the diverse world of honey - from its myriad flavours and textures to the vital role of pollinators in its creation. Learn why honey is not just a treat, but a precious gift from nature that sustains both bees and humans. 
• Line Dancing – An energizing line dance session where participants can come and experience the joy of movement, connect with colleagues, and learn some new dance moves. No experience necessary – just bring your energy and enthusiasm! 
• Free Hot Beverage – Queen’s employees can enjoy a free coffee, tea, or hot chocolate at one of the university’s participating food outlets on Friday, Nov. 8, courtesy of the Office of the Principal and Vice-Chancellor. Reusable mugs are encouraged. A complete list of participating locations is available on the HR website. 

For more information, including other events, dates, and registration, visit the Thrive page.

This article originally appeared in the Queen's Gazette.