In the journey of mastering a new language, learners often face the pressure of memorizing vast amounts of vocabulary and complex grammatical rules. This can sometimes diminish motivation and turn learning into a stressful task rather than an experience of discovery. So, how can we make learning English more relaxed, effective, and more deeply connected to ourselves?
For many learners, maintaining interest and making English a natural part of life is a significant challenge. Traditional learning methods can sometimes create a gap between textbook knowledge and practical application, leading to communication anxiety. Therefore, the method of combining Mindfulness – the practice of focusing on the present moment without judgment – and connecting with personal Hobbies is emerging as a creative solution. This combination not only helps reduce stress but also creates an enjoyable space for language practice, where joy comes from experience and self-discovery.
Understanding these concerns, the Department of Student Affairs (DSA), in collaboration with the School of Foreign Languages at the UEH English Zone, organized a language workshop titled “English Through Mindfulness & Hobbies: Connect, Practice, Grow!”. The program was honored to feature speaker Pau Rojas C, an expert from the Ministry of Public Education in Costa Rica, who has extensive experience in applying innovative teaching methods.
At the workshop, the speaker brought a fresh and inspiring perspective, helping attendees discover how to leverage the power of their minds and personal passions so that learning English is no longer a burden. She shared that mindfulness helps us recognize and manage anxiety, fostering an open and more receptive mindset. When this is combined with favorite activities like drawing, listening to music, or watching movies, we create a highly meaningful and personalized context for English practice.
To turn theory into practice, learners were guided through specific steps: starting a study session with a few minutes of deep breathing to calm the mind, and choosing a hobby-related topic for a short journal entry or a discussion with friends. This method helps shift the focus from passive to active, thereby stimulating the natural use of vocabulary and sentence structures.
Speaker Pau Rojas C shares practical methods for integrating mindfulness into English learning.
Furthermore, the speaker also pointed out a common mistake learners make: focusing too much on perfection, fearing mistakes, and forgetting the primary goal of language, which is communication and connection. Practicing through hobbies helps remove this psychological barrier. Instead of worrying about grammar, you focus on expressing your passion. The speaker encouraged learners to view mistakes as a natural part of the learning process and to celebrate small victories, such as learning a new word while reading an article about their idol, or discovering creative and poetic uses of vocabulary while listening to a song.
The workshop was a great success, taking place in an open, interactive, and energetic atmosphere. Throughout the 90-minute session, attendees not only listened but also actively participated in mindfulness exercises and lively group discussions about their hobbies. With its unique theme, the program clarified how to connect English with daily life, alleviate anxieties, and rekindle the joy of learning. All questions from attendees were thoughtfully answered by the speaker, creating a valuable two-way learning environment.
Attendees enthusiastically participate in interactive activities, practicing English through their personal hobbies.
As part of the UEH English Zone project, language workshops are held regularly to introduce new and practical learning methods. These events aim to help UEH learners and staff gradually become more interested in learning English, thereby building habits, stimulating curiosity, and helping to affirm their self-worth in today’s dynamic and integrated environment.
To register for and participate in upcoming programs, please interact with and follow the UEH English Zone fanpage for the latest updates.
News, photos: Department of Student Affairs