Healthy Habits, Happy Heart

March 10–19, 2025 Bartninkai, Lithuania

My fourth journey with the Erasmus+ programme brought me once again to a familiar place – the small Lithuanian village of Bartninkai, where this time the project “Healthy Habits, Happy Heart” took place. Even though the location and the organizing team from E29.eu remained the same, the experience was once again absolutely unique.

The topic immediately caught my attention when I first heard about it – I wanted to better understand how physical and mental health are connected. I was curious about what we can do for our bodies and minds. And that exact question guided us throughout the whole stay – from the very first days focused on movement and a healthy lifestyle to deeper discussions about mental well-being and inner balance.

How do we take care of ourselves? Which habits help us – and which harm us? Can we slow down in our busy everyday lives and listen to our bodies? How do exercise, food, and sleep affect our mood? And what role do the people around us play in all of this? We explored these questions together – not only during the workshops but also in informal conversations between activities.

The programme was active and diverse. Daily sports tournaments in volleyball, football, and of course basketball (which is practically a national religion in Lithuania) brought us together beautifully. There was also stretching, breathing exercises, and sauna time – which was both relaxing and important for building community.

One of the most unforgettable experiences was meeting a professional Muay Thai coach and his student – a young athlete who had recently become the European champion in the under-22 category. Under their guidance, we learned the basics of Thai boxing, but more importantly, we experienced what discipline, focus, and working with both body and mind truly mean. It wasn't just about physical effort – it was also about self-control, inner peace, and mutual respect.

As the days passed, the project naturally shifted from physical activities to topics related to mental health. We talked about stress, setting personal boundaries, building healthy habits, and recognizing when “something isn’t right.” These were sincere and often deeply personal conversations that brought us even closer together.

And of course, there were the typical cultural nights that I love so much about Erasmus+ projects. Each country – Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Lithuania, Portugal, Turkey, and Ukraine – presented their traditions, cuisine, music, and dances. These evenings were full of laughter, flavors, inspiration, and new perspectives on the world.

Then came the farewell – which is always the hardest part of any Erasmus project. After ten days of sharing, laughter, challenges, and growth, it was tough to say goodbye. But in Erasmus+, we don’t say “goodbye” – we say “see you soon.” Because these projects create friendships that go beyond borders and memories that never fade.

If anyone is unsure about whether to join – this fourth experience gave me just as much as the first. Every project is different, but they all have one thing in common: they change you for the better. And that’s why taking the first step is always worth it.

If this adventure caught your interest and you're thinking about experiencing something similar – don’t hesitate. I’ll be happy to offer advice, help you choose the right project, or answer anything you need to know. Because once you go on your first project, you’ll realize that Erasmus+ is not just a programme – it’s a journey that changes lives.

What did we do during the project?

The programme was dynamic, diverse, and very hands-on. From the very beginning, we focused on physical movement, sports, and also deeper topics like mental hygiene, stress, and inner balance. Every day brought new challenges, opportunities, and meaningful experiences:

• Sports activities: Daily tournaments in volleyball, football, and basketball helped us bond while showing the importance of movement for our overall health.

• Morning workouts, breathing exercises & sauna: We started each day actively – and sauna time wasn’t just relaxing, but also a great bonding experience.

• Muay Thai workshop: Our session with the professional trainer and the European champion was one of the highlights. It wasn’t just about learning the techniques – but about discipline, respect, and self-awareness.

• Discussions on mental health: We explored topics like stress, boundaries, sleep, nutrition, and relationships – not only theoretically but mainly through personal sharing and informal conversation.

• Creative activities: We created thematic posters, short performances, and reflective outputs about what healthy living means to each of us.

• Cultural evenings: Each country – Czechia, Slovakia, Lithuania, Hungary, Romania, Portugal, Turkey, and Ukraine – presented their traditions, food, and music. These evenings were full of joy, inspiration, and new perspectives.

What was it all about?

The goal of the project was to connect physical and mental health in our daily lives. We talked about habits that support us and those we should change. We learned how to recognize the signals our bodies give us and how to listen to ourselves and others. It wasn’t about preaching or judging – it was about sharing, listening, and discovering our own paths to balance.

What did it give me?

Every Erasmus+ project gives me something valuable, but this one was especially practical and meaningful. I learned new things about myself, my body, and my relationships. I gained more confidence in communication, motivation to care for myself, and loads of inspiration from people across Europe. And of course, I improved my English and made new friendships that won’t end with the last day of the project.

A big bonus is that the entire project was fully funded by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union – meaning that participants didn’t have to pay for travel, food, or accommodation. That makes it accessible to everyone, regardless of financial background.

Why should you try it?

If you’re hesitating about joining a project – this is your sign to go for it! Whether it’s your first time or you’re already experienced, every project will push you forward. Healthy Habits, Happy Heart once again proved to me that Erasmus+ is not just about fun – it’s about life-changing experiences.

I’ll be happy to help anyone who’d like to experience something similar. Because the first step is always the hardest – but it’s also the one that makes all the difference.