Program Overview

Introduction to the SeGeL Program

The SeGeL program is inspired by the Chinese proverb "Nicht der Wind, sondern das Segel bestimmt die Richtung," which translates to "It's not the wind, but the sail that determines the direction." This metaphor represents the human ability to cope constructively with challenges, grow, and do good for oneself and the environment.

Program Development

SeGeL is being developed by Prof. Ute Kunzmann and Dr. Cornelia Wieck. The program is currently open to members of the University of Leipzig and other universities and colleges in Leipzig. However, the long-term goal is to make SeGeL inclusive and beneficial for people from diverse backgrounds and life situations.

Basis for SeGeL Course Development

The development of SeGeL course formats is based on the importance of individual well-being, empathy, prosocial behavior, and a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. These goals are essential for creating a foundation for peaceful and productive coexistence among individuals and society. Unfortunately, current global events indicate that we are far from achieving these goals. Psychological research suggests that many adults experience chronic stress, social conflicts, or feel threatened by current crises such as climate change or wars.

The Role of Mindfulness

Recent research findings suggest that mindfulness, understood as a non-judgmental, open, and tolerant attitude towards life, can make a significant contribution to overcoming individual and social problems. Mindfulness can be trained through interventions and leads to reduced stress, increased well-being, and more prosocial and sustainable behavior.

The Basis of All SeGeL Courses: Mindfulness

The common basis of all SeGeL course formats is mindfulness, which is taught through informal and formal meditation exercises. Mindfulness as a state means consciously directing attention to the present moment and perceiving everything that arises, thoughts, feelings, bodily and sensory sensations, as value-free and equally benevolent.

Chronic Stress at Universities

The SeGeL program addresses all members of the University of Leipzig and other universities and colleges in Leipzig, with a particular focus on students and early-career researchers. The high prevalence of chronic stress, mental health symptoms such as depression and anxiety, and social problems among students is documented through surveys conducted by the Studentenwerk Leipzig. Similar problems are reported nationwide and internationally.

Support for Students and Early-Career Researchers

The primary goal of the SeGeL program is to offer low-threshold and free mindfulness-based group courses. These courses aim to support participants in finding and stabilizing their inner balance and gaining new perspectives and possibilities for design.

Research Background

The development of SeGeL is based on research findings indicating the high effectiveness of mindfulness-based courses in the general population and in academic contexts. The program's focus on mindfulness is grounded in its potential to reduce stress, enhance well-being, and promote prosocial and sustainable behavior.

• Key aspects of the SeGeL program include:
  • Mindfulness as the core component
  • Low-threshold access for students and early-career researchers
  • Free participation
  • Aim to reduce chronic stress and promote well-being
  • Contribution to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle
  • Basis in psychological research on mindfulness and its benefits

Target Group

The SeGeL program is designed for:

• Students
• Early-career researchers (Ph.D. students and postdoctoral researchers)
• All members of the University of Leipzig and other universities and colleges in Leipzig

Program Objectives

The objectives of the SeGeL program are:

• To provide a mindfulness-based intervention for reducing chronic stress and promoting well-being
• To support participants in developing a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle
• To foster prosocial behavior and empathy
• To create a low-threshold and inclusive offer for students and early-career researchers

By achieving these objectives, the SeGeL program aims to contribute to the well-being and success of its participants, ultimately benefiting the broader university community and society.