Healthy Habits, Happy Heart

Between May 11 and 20, 2025, the Erasmus+ youth exchange “Healthy Habits, Happy Heart” took place in Bartninkai, Lithuania, bringing together young participants from Lithuania, Portugal, Slovakia, Romania, Hungary, and Czechia. This unique project focused on exploring healthy lifestyles through non-formal learning, active participation, and cultural exchange.

The exchange began with engaging icebreaking activities that helped participants get to know each other, overcome language barriers, and form strong connections. These moments set the tone for a week filled with cooperation, openness, and shared experiences.

Each day centered around key themes such as sleep, stress management, daily routines, and physical activity. Rather than taking a theoretical approach, participants learned through practical, hands-on methods — from group discussions and theatre to energizing games and collaborative challenges.

One of the highlights was a visit from the martial arts school “La Team”, which delivered a dynamic self-defense workshop. It was an empowering and active session that encouraged body awareness, confidence, and safety.

Physical activity remained a constant throughout the project. Participants stayed energized through outdoor volleyball, football, and basketball games, along with various movement-based exercises. These moments not only supported the theme of a healthy lifestyle but also strengthened teamwork and group spirit. Toward the end of the week, a peaceful yoga session allowed everyone to relax, reflect, and reconnect with themselves.

Evenings were reserved for cultural nights, during which each country had the opportunity to showcase its traditions, food, music, and dances. From Czechia to Romania, Slovakia, Portugal, and finally Lithuania, these nights were filled with laughter, celebration, and appreciation for diversity. They played a key role in deepening the intercultural dimension of the exchange.

As the project came to a close, the group shared heartfelt goodbyes, revealed their secret friends, and received their Youthpass certificates, recognizing their learning and development throughout the exchange. Emotions ran high as everyone reflected on an unforgettable experience filled with growth, connection, and inspiration.