Books To Balance: A Day To Reset
As exams loom just around the corner, last week, students were offered a unique opportunity to step back, recharge, and dive into something a little different. At Brentwood, we believe that every student should develop the skills and strategies to navigate life's stressors. That is why we are excited to introduce this year's BREAK FOR SPACE - a day designed to push students out of their routines and into a space where they can connect with themselves, their peers, and their passions. This is not just a pause to academics, but a purposeful time to engage in activities that bring energy, joy, and balance to life.
Students were asked to pick one or two sessions that sparked their interest with options including paddle boarding, sushi making, hiking, baking, sound healing, colouring, yoga, cold water immersion and many more. Students also attended a keynote speaker about the importance of nutrition in the morning before they embarked on a lively day of activities. Keeping with the theme of wellness, our keynote speaker, author and researcher Jesse Veenstra, spoke about the vast relationship with food and the impact it has on communities. Basma J, Allard House Captain ‘25 said that she “really enjoyed the speaker and it was interesting to hear about food security and what that means in different parts of the world”.
In between sessions, students also attended a wellness fair on Campbell Commons. This included slime making, cookie decorating, drumming, puppy booths, and a kitten booth. Elena F, Hope ‘25 shared that “it was so much fun to walk around and try everything”. Thanks to Jordyn Mcilroy and team for help setting up the B-Well Fair on Campbell Commons and to Food Services for managing the many food orders - your efforts didn’t go unnoticed!
As the day wound down, students returned to their afternoons feeling refreshed, grounded, and better prepared for the final push. “BREAK FOR SPACE” was more than just a day off - it was a powerful reminder of the importance of balance, self-care, and community connection. Ms Murray, B-Well coordinator, shares that “With more than 33 engaging sessions for students to explore, this year's Break for Space was an undeniable success!”
It does not go unnoticed how much work is put into coordinating these special days. Ms Scheck, one of the key Wellness Day planners says that "It was a splendid and special day! All students and staff who ran and participated in the sessions made the day extremely enjoyable”. Thanks also to Ms Murray, BWell Captain Addison C, and all of the team for providing this excellent day of wellness opportunity.
Ruby M, Allard '25