Resting, Relaxation & Reflection

Activities to help with introspection and creative expression for healthcare professionals

About the toolkit

This toolkit has been created as part of a collaboration between MSc student Catherine Watson, Artlink Central, Artist and Illustrator Orla Stevens, the University of Stirling, and their Vice Chancellors Fund.

This is the final product of a project proposed by Catherine Watson to provide workshops and a self-led resource pack for Paramedic Sciences and Nursing students at the University of Stirling. This project was aimed at exploring self-expression and representation from healthcare students, as a means of encouraging improved appreciation for holistic interventions, alternative methods of communication, and reflective practice.

After five workshops over five weeks, proposed activities for this toolkit were explored with healthcare students at the University of Stirling within the Lochview Wellbeing Suite. The activities that are within this toolkit are a result of the engagement from healthcare students and their feedback across different themed workshops.

“This project hoped to include healthcare students in the narrative of staff wellbeing, whilst exploring a different approach. It’s my hope that this toolkit will be accessible to healthcare staff and students of all experiences and aptitudes.”

— Catherine Watson

Download Wellbeing Toolkit (Digital)

Download Wellbeing Toolkit (Printable)

(Notes on downloads: The Digital Version contains direct links and can be accessed on computer and phone screens. The Printable Version is meant to be printed double-sided but you can choose to only print the pages you need. The Printable Version also contains the same links as the Digital, but they can be accessed by scanning a QR code instead. For any issues with downloads please email us at info@artlinkcentral.org and we will be able to assist.)

The activities range from short to long. They are designed in such a way that they can be picked up and put down at your leisure, in a way that suits you. Some activities are suitable for either an indoor or outdoor setting; if you plan to do an outdoor activity and you're at work or university, you'll find some suggestions on places you could explore either on campus or around Forth Valley Royal Hospital. Alternatively, feel free to try the activities in your local park/walk. On the page for your chosen activity, you will find a list of materials needed and a series of steps to follow. Feel free to add your unique twist and creative ideas to personalise your project! Take pleasure in the creative process and the joy of making something unique. If you'd like, share your completed work or experience on social media by tagging @artlinkcentral or using #creativehealthcare, or show it to friends and colleagues.