Programme

Registration link available below each session

The Service Sport Santé UNIL+EPFL (SSUE) offers more than 120 physical and sporting activities on campus to get the Lausanne academic community moving, in the exceptional setting of the Dorigny Sports Centre. With sustainable health in mind, the Service SSUE invites students and staff from UNIL and EPFL to work out together in an open environment that respects differences.

SPORT | MyBreak Tonic
Tuesday 30 September to Thursday 3 October | 10:00–10:20 (in French and English) | Place Cosandey

A 20-minute session focusing on exercises using bodyweight only. The “Tonic” orientation is ideal in the morning to awaken your postural tone with a sequence of muscle-strengthening exercises.

Link to register (date of your choice when registering)

SPORT | MyBreak NRJ Booster
Tuesday 30 September, Wednesday 1 October | 16:00–16:20 (in French/English) | Place Cosandey

A 20-minute session focusing on exercises using bodyweight only. The “NRJ Booster” orientation gives you a boost of energy at the end of the day, with dynamic movements to activate the cardiovascular and muscular systems.

Link to register (date of your choice when registering)

RELAXATION | Mindfulness
Tuesday 30 September | 12:30–13:00 and 13:00–13:30 (in French) | room CH B2 355 and online
Monique Borcard-Sacco

Introduce yourself to the art of meditation and mindfulness for 30 minutes, during which attention is focused intentionally and non-judgmentally on the experience of the present moment.

Link to register

Monique Borcard Sacco is a psychologist and sophrologist. She teaches mindfulness at the Service Sport Santé UNIL+EPFL and has worked in scientific research for several years.

Thursday 26 September to Thursday 24 October | 7:00–midnight, 7/7 | Rolex Learning Center, EPFL Library

Nutrition, stress, anxiety, sport, neuroscience, emotional intelligence or mindfulness: Discover a selection of documents from the EPFL Library’s collections on topics related to physical and mental health. Read and borrow these books to help you look after your body and mind! https://go.epfl.ch/health-books

Registration required

Rethinking the Campus: Well-being, Accessibility and Inclusion
Dr. Alexandra Bezler, Dr. Quentin Delval, Anna Hausel, Pierre Violland, Nathalie Quartenoud Macherel

Monday 29.09 | 12:15–13:30 | BI A0 448-468-478

What if supporting people with special needs could actually benefit the whole community? Through testimonials and contributions from specialists, this round table will present inclusive practices that promote collective well-being and individual performance on campus. It will show that facilities designed with neurodiversity in mind help to create an environment that is not only more equitable, but above all more pleasant for all.

Link to register

Alexandra Bezler, lecturer at the School of Life Sciences, fosters inclusive practices to empower neurodivergent and neurotypical members of the EPFL community with the tools to thrive scientifically, professionally, and collaboratively.

Quentin Delval has been working for equality, diversity and inclusion for over ten years, and is currently project manager at the EPFL Equal Opportunity Office. In particular, he is developing the “EPFL Without Barriers” programme, which aims to ensure that the institution is accessible to people with disabilities.

Anna Hausel, a recent Architecture graduate from EPFL, focuses her research on the geographies of urban exclusion and ways to counteract the barriers marginalised groups, including neurodiverse individuals, face in public space, drawing from intersectional feminist perspectives.

Pierre Violland, an engineer turned peer helper specialising in autism, supports autistic people and their families, trains professionals and is involved in participatory research to promote inclusion and advance knowledge of autism.

After several years working in education and specialized education, Nathalie Quartenoud Macherel returned to the academic world to teach at the University of Fribourg. She is currently focusing her research on neurodiversity, and more specifically on autism in higher education. The issues of inclusion that drive her are approached from the angle of self-determination and individual-environment interactions.

Registration required

Positive Intelligence as a Way to Fulfill Your Potential
Rodrigue Ambara

Monday 29.09 | 12:15–13:45 | Rolex Learning Center (RLC AA1230)

Join us for a transformative workshop on Positive Intelligence at EPFL. First, participants will identify their internal saboteurs, responsible for stress, anxiety, and low productivity. Then we will learn about Positive Intelligence Qotient (PQ) Reps, exercises that lower stress and facilitate access to the part of the mind associated with positive emotions and clear-headed focus (wise mind). Practicing PQ Reps enhances mental well-being, increase productivity, strengthen resilience, and unlock full potential both academically and personally.

Link to register

Rodrigue Ambara, a social counselor at the EPFL Social Consultation, is certified as a positive intelligence coach. He integrates the positive intelligence program developed by Shirzad Chamine into his practice.

Registration required (link to come) – open to all the UNIL-EPFL Community

TAKE PART IN A RUN THROUGH THE EPFL AND UNIL CAMPUSES – 5.6KM AND 11.2KM (2x 5.6KM)

The UNIL+EPFL Cross is organized by the student associations AGEPoly (EPFL) et ESSUL (UNIL).

Warm-up and stretching by students from UNIL’s Institut des sciences du sport. A snack will be offered for all runners.

Warm-ups and starts:

• 12:00–14:00: race number collection at Place Cosandey
• 17:00: start of 5.6km race
• 17:45: start of 11.2km race

Link to register (to come)

Stands will be set up in Place Cosandey throughout the event.

Registration required

INTRODUCTION TO SELF-HYPNOSIS FOR STRESS MANAGEMENT
Dr. Béatrice Gay

Tuesday 30.09 | 12:15–14:00 | Rolex Learning Center (RLC AA1230)

After a presentation of some basic hypnosis theory, practice group exercises to identify and experience the hypnotic trance state for stress management.

Link to register

After training as a nurse, Béatrice Gay studied medicine. She specialised in general internal medicine, then medical oncology, before finally devoting herself to psychiatry and psychotherapy, which she mainly practises at the CHUV and for young people in training. In parallel with her medical training, Béatrice Gay took a course in medical hypnosis 20 years ago, which she now passes on to her various patients. She has been teaching this discipline in hospitals in French-speaking Switzerland for a number of years on behalf of the Institut Romand d’Hypnose Suisse.

Registration required

BOOST YOUR SELF-CONFIDENCE WITH 3 SIMPLE AND PRACTICAL TOOLS
Fanny Van De Poel and Rodrigue Ambara

Tuesday 30.09 | 12:15–13:45 | CO 216

Improve your personal and professional well-being with a workshop on self-confidence, structured in three phases:

• causes and consequences of low self-confidence
• ways to increase self-confidence
• practical exercises in small groups: Role-playing, guided discussions, confidence-building activities, meditation and relaxation

Link to register

Fanny Van De Poel is a social counselor at EPFL with a passion for human relationships, the inner workings of the mind, and solution-focused approaches. Trained in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and hypnosis, she integrates elements of both into her work with EPFL students, offering guidance and support to help them thrive academically and personally.

Rodrigue Ambara is a dedicated social counselor at EPFL, certified coach in Positive Intelligence, as well as a trained practitioner in NLP and mindfulness. His mission is to support students in developing healthy habits and routines that contribute to a balanced and fulfilling life.

Registration required – Conference open to the general public

LEVERAGING KINDNESS TO FOSTER SUCCESS
Dr. Raphaël H Cohen

Tuesday 30.09 | 12:15–13:15 | RLC – Espace Hodler

Presenting a pragmatic approach to kindness in the academic environment, this talk—infused with humor and a fresh perspective—explores how to reconcile academic rigor with positive daily interactions. Focused on practical solutions rather than abstract theory, it offers concrete, immediately applicable tools for everyday exchanges between colleagues. The goal is to foster a human-centered and equitable environment where kindness becomes a true driver of performance and psychological well-being.

Link to register

Raphaël H Cohen is a serial entrepreneur, senior executive mentor, lecturer, professor and MBA academic director. He has published several books and articles on leadership and innovation. His latest bestseller, “Les leviers de l’engagement”, describes how to operationalise equitable and benevolent leadership. His next book deals with the deployment of equity in organisations.

Registration required

REDEFINING MOVEMENT WITH THE HELP OF THE HAMMOCK
Sandrine Jaussi

Tuesday 30.09 | 12:15–13:15 | GC B3 31

Suspended at hip height, the hammock introduces you to a playful and freeing yoga technique. With gentle movements, you will explore motion in a new way, strengthening, stretching, and lengthening your body. This class promotes flexibility, energy, and confidence—a moment for yourself, balancing lightness and vitality.

Prerequisites: good physical health is required. This practice is not recommended for individuals with prosthetics, motion sickness, dizziness, or overweight.

Recommendations:

• Choose comfortable clothing, preferably long leggings and a long-sleeved t-shirt.
• Make sure your stomach is empty or nearly empty.

Link to register

Sandrine Jaussi’s artistic journey comes to life in the world of circus arts, which she practiced and shared with young people for several years. Yoga later became an important part of her life—she trained notably in Asia—and has guided her path for over 20 years. Aerial yoga naturally emerged as the perfect fusion of her two passions.

Registration required

DECODE YOUR SLEEP, REDESIGN YOUR NIGHTS
Selma Ertem

Tuesday 30.09 | 12:30–14:30 | BI A0 448-468-478

To improve the quality of your sleep, it is essential to better understand how it works. In this workshop, we’ll explore our sleep patterns, what can disrupt them, and how to restore balance. Combining accessible theory with a practical toolbox, you’ll leave with concrete strategies to calm your mind and enhance your nights.

Link to register

Selma Ertem is a psychologist, somatic therapist, and yoga teacher with over 20 years of experience. She supports individuals through an integrative approach to body and mind, with a particular focus on stress and nervous system regulation.

Registration required – Conference open to the general public

SLEEP BETTER, LIVE BETTER
Dre. Tiffen Raffray, Dr. José Haba-Riubo

Tuesday 30 September | 18:00–19:00 | RLC – Espace Hodler

Sleep is a vital pillar of our physical and mental well-being. It plays a key role in emotional regulation, concentration, and resilience to stress. This talk will explore the physiology of sleep, the mechanisms that govern our sleep-wake cycles, and their impact on memory, emotions, and cognitive performance. We’ll examine how stress, modern lifestyles, and certain disorders can disrupt this essential process—and, most importantly, what strategies can help improve sleep and protect mental health.

Link to register

Tiffen Raffray, co-medical director of the Florimont Sleep Center, is a psychiatrist and psychotherapist specializing in sleep disorders. Trained in Paris and at Stanford, she combines clinical work, research, and teaching. An expert in insomnia and non-drug therapies, she is affiliated with the Sleep Research Center (CIRS) and teaches at the University of Lausanne.

José Haba-Rubio, co-medical director of the Florimont Sleep Center, is a neurologist and sleep specialist. A privat-docent and clinical lecturer in Lausanne, he is also an affiliated physician at the CHUV’s Sleep Research Center (CIRS). Author of numerous publications on sleep, he regularly speaks in the media and at public conferences. He is a recognized expert in disorders such as narcolepsy and restless legs syndrome.

Registration required

DEEP RELAXATION IN THE HAMMOCK
Sandrine Jaussi

Tuesday 30.09 | 17:30–18:30 | GC B3 31

Treat yourself to a peaceful moment in the middle of your week. With the hammock gently suspended just below your knees, your body feels fully supported in every pose. The soft hammock wraps you in comfort, easing away tension and helping your mind to unwind. This class welcomes everyone, no matter your flexibility or experience. An opportunity to slow down, relax, and reconnect with yourself in a gentle and nurturing way.

Recommendations:

• Opt for comfortable clothing, such as long leggings or sweatpants paired with a light sweater.
• If you’re sensitive to the cold, consider bringing something to keep you warm, like a small blanket.

Link to register

Sandrine Jaussi’s artistic journey comes to life in the world of circus arts, which she practiced and shared with young people for several years. Yoga later became an important part of her life—she trained notably in Asia—and has guided her path for over 20 years. Aerial yoga naturally emerged as the perfect fusion of her two passions.

Registration required

CIRCLE OF FORGIVENESS
Alexandre Mayor

Tuesday 30.09 | 18:15–20:15 | BI A0 448-468-478

A heart-healing practice that is both simple and effective. Without the need to share your personal challenges or wounds with others, this approach offers an opportunity to experience forgiveness—toward others and yourself.

Please arrive at the building entrance by 6:10 PM so we can welcome you a few minutes before the activity begins, as access to the building requires a pass.

Link to register

Alexandre Mayor, chaplain at EPFL for the past 10 years, leads activities focused on human development: Mindfulness meditation, prayer, food fasting, consumption fasting, and thematic discussions. He is also available for individual support sessions.

Registration required – Conference open to the general public

FINDING BALANCE IN A HYPERCONNECTED WORLD
Gabriel Pitt

Wednesday 01.10 | 12:15–13:15 | RLC – Espace Hodler

In today’s world of constant notifications and hyperconnection, finding digital balance is a challenge for everyone—students, faculty, and staff alike. Why is it harder than ever to disconnect? What are the effects on our well-being, motivation, and relationships?
This presentation offers key insights and practical strategies to help you better understand your digital habits and take your first steps toward lasting well-being in a hyperconnected world.

Please take 5 minutes to complete this poll before the lecture.

Link to register

Gabriel Pitt is a certified expert in digital well-being and the creator of the MASTER YOUR DIGITAL HABITS® method, designed to help individuals reclaim their focus and adopt balanced, sustainable digital habits in the age of screens, AI, and digital overload. He is the author of “Be Present” and the documentary “Scroll – Reprenez le contrôle”, and regularly speaks in the media about the impact of technology on our lives

Registration required

COONQUER STRESS AND DOUBLE PRODUCTIVITY WITH POSITIVE INTELLIGENCE
Rodrigue Ambara

Wednesday 01.10 | 12:15–13:45 | Rolex Learning Center (RLC AA1230)

Join us for a transformative workshop on Positive Intelligence at EPFL. First, participants will identify their internal saboteurs, responsible for stress, anxiety, and low productivity. Then we will learn about PQ Reps, exercises that lower stress and facilitate access to the Sage, the part of the mind associated with positive emotions and clear-headed focus. Practicing PQ Reps enhances mental fitness, increase productivity, strengthen resilience, and unlock full potential both academically and personally. A journey towards greater mental fitness and success!

Link to register

Rodrigue Ambara, a social counselor at the EPFL Social Consultation, is certified as a positive intelligence coach. He integrates the Positive Intelligence Quotient (PQ) developed by Shirzad Chamine into his practice. He also offers this practice as part of Tucamino coaching, which he founded in 2019.

Registration required

STAMP YOUR (ECO)-EMOTION !
Siroune Der Sarkissian

Wednesday 01.10 | 12:15–13:45 | BCH 4104

Using linocut as a means of expression, we’ll share a collective moment to explore what we’re feeling and experiencing. Come create your own stamp to express either your current emotions about the changes happening around us (in the world, at EPFL, etc.), or something that inspires you to take action or brings you a sense of calm. If no ideas come to mind, we’ll have a few leaves available that you can carve instead. We’ll also take time to explore a few key concepts together, such as eco-emotions and solastalgia.

Link to register

Siroune Der Sarkissian, project manager in the Sustainability-Education team within the Vice Presidency for Strategic Initiatives (VPS), has followed a diverse professional and personal path that led her to various awakenings and to question systems we often consider unchangeable.

Registration required

MINDFULNESS
Alexandre Mayor

Tuesday 30.09 | 12:15–12:50 | CM 1545

35 minutes to discover meditation. A session where attention is intentionally and non-judgmentally focused on the experience of the present moment.

Link to register

Alexandre Mayor, chaplain at EPFL for the past 10 years, leads activities focused on human development: Mindfulness meditation, prayer, food fasting, consumption fasting, and thematic discussions. He is also available for individual support sessions.

Registration required

LESS PRESSURE, MORE MEANING: RETHINKING THE WAY WE WORK
Emmanuel Jeger

Wednesday 01.10 | 12:30–14:00 | BI A0 448-468-478

An interactive, dynamic, and inspiring workshop to explore how to combine efficiency, enjoyment, engagement, and quality of life in our professional or academic activities.
Through hands-on activities, insights from motivational psychology, evidence-based tools for emotional well-being at work, and a targeted self-assessment, each participant will leave with concrete takeaways to better understand what energizes them, motivates them, and helps them feel truly in their place at work.

Link to register

Emmanuel Jeger is a certified coach and change facilitator who supports managers and teams—both in industry and academia—in transforming complexity and tension into collective performance. An engineer with an MBA, he has spent over 20 years helping organizations foster efficiency, talent development, and team cohesion. Combining structure, empathy, and creativity, he integrates emotional well-being at work through the principles of Flow.

Registration required – Conference open to the general public

AUTISM IN ADULTHOOD: MOVING BEYOND STREREOTYPES, UNDERSTANDING REALITIES
Dr. Julie Dachez

Wednesday 01.10 | 17:30–19:00 | RLC – Espace Hodler

This talk offers a critical and contemporary perspective on autism in adulthood. It will address key topics such as depathologization, late diagnosis, social camouflaging, and mental health—drawing on both current scientific research and lived experience. The goal is to challenge common misconceptions, shed light on the impact of normative perspectives, and open up pathways toward more respectful, inclusive, and appropriate support.

Link to register

Julie Dachez holds a PhD in social psychology, and is a speaker and author of “La différence invisible”, “Dans ta bulle!”, and “L’autisme, autrement”. Since her diagnosis, she has been an advocate for the rights of autistic people and promotes a depathologizing view of autism—as a difference rather than a deficiency. A minority voice, but an essential one.

Registration required

NAVIGATING DIFFICULT RELATIONSHIPS
Dr. Olivier Tilleux

Wednesday 01.10 | 17:30–18:30 | BI A0 448-468-478

In this hands-on, interactive, and experience-centered workshop, we will explore difficult relationships through the lens of the hypnosystemic approach. After a brief theoretical introduction to shift our perspective on these situations, we’ll experiment together with concrete and creative tools inspired by this method. The goal is to explore new ways of relating—to others and to ourselves—by activating our inner resources, rather than focusing on problems and tension.

Link to register

Olivier Tilleux holds a PhD in sociology, and is both a professional actor and team coach. For over 20 years, he has been training and supporting leaders, teams, and institutions in navigating relational and communication challenges. As a hypnosystemic organizational consultant (trained by the internationally recognized Dr. Gunther Schmidt), he blends the creative potential of performing arts with a systemic, resource- and solution-oriented approach.

Registration required

NAVIGATING DIFFICULT RELATIONSHIPS
Dr. Olivier Tilleux

Thursday 02.10 | 12:30–13:30 | BI A0 448-468-478

In this hands-on, interactive, and experience-centered workshop, we will explore difficult relationships through the lens of the hypnosystemic approach. After a brief theoretical introduction to shift our perspective on these situations, we’ll experiment together with concrete and creative tools inspired by this method. The goal is to explore new ways of relating—to others and to ourselves—by activating our inner resources, rather than focusing on problems and tension.

Link to register

Olivier Tilleux holds a PhD in sociology, and is both a professional actor and team coach. For over 20 years, he has been training and supporting leaders, teams, and institutions in navigating relational and communication challenges. As a hypnosystemic organizational consultant (trained by the internationally recognized Dr. Gunther Schmidt), he blends the creative potential of performing arts with a systemic, resource- and solution-oriented approach.

Registration required – Conference open to the general public

MENTAL HEALTH THROUGHOUT UNIVERSITY STUDIES : WHAT DOES RESEARCH SAY ?
Prof. Alexandre Berney

Thursday 02.10 | 12:30–13:30 (in French) | RLC – Espace Hodler

University students experience mental health issues more frequently than their non-student peers. This can be explained in part by the stress of adapting to a new environment, being away from family, heavy workloads, exams, and what is medically referred to as exposure to suffering. This lecture will focus on research conducted at UNIL, which found that depressive symptoms and stress are more pronounced at the beginning of studies, then decrease, before burnout reemerges toward the end of the academic journey. It will also present factors associated with better mental health, such as cognitive and behavioral empathy, social support, and certain coping strategies.

Link to register

Alexandre Berney, psychiatrist and psychotherapist, is the head physician of the Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Service at CHUV and an associate professor at UNIL. He specializes in the interface between psychiatric and somatic disorders, particularly in the area of mood disorders. His recent research, supported by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF), aims to better understand the development of interpersonal skills and the evolution of mental health among medical students throughout their university studies.

Registration required

REDEFINING MOVEMENT WITH THE HELP OF THE HAMMOCK
Sandrine Jaussi

Thursday 02.10 | 12:15–13:15 | GC B3 31

Suspended at hip height, the hammock introduces you to a playful and freeing yoga technique. With gentle movements, you will explore motion in a new way, strengthening, stretching, and lengthening your body. This class promotes flexibility, energy, and confidence. A moment for yourself, balancing lightness and vitality.

Prerequisites: good physical health is required. This practice is not recommended for individuals with prosthetics, motion sickness, dizziness, or overweight.

Recommendations:

• Choose comfortable clothing, preferably long leggings and a long-sleeved t-shirt.
• Make sure your stomach is empty or nearly empty.

Link to register

Sandrine Jaussi’s artistic journey comes to life in the world of circus arts, which she practiced and shared with young people for several years. Yoga later became an important part of her life—she trained notably in Asia—and has guided her path for over 20 years. Aerial yoga naturally emerged as the perfect fusion of her two passions.

Registration required

EMOTION MANAGEMENT TRAINING
Prof. Francine Petersen

Thursday 02.10 | 12:15–13:15 | Rolex Learning Center (RLC A1 230)

We often underestimate the impact of our emotions on our opinions, decisions, and actions. Yet, we can enhance our understanding of our own emotions and improve how we manage them so that they will be more beneficial to our lives. Based on emotional intelligence and emotion regulation strategies, this workshop will train you to more effectively engage with your feelings. You will apply the tools and insights discussed during the workshop to the case of local anxiety.

Link to register

Francine Espinoza Petersen is Associate Professor of Marketing at HEC Lausanne. Her research focuses on emotions and well-being and on understanding what makes individuals happy. She is particularly interested in how people can make better choices for themselves, society, and the environment. She holds a PhD from the University of Maryland, was an associate professor at ESMT Berlin, visiting scholar at Columbia Business School and INSEAD, and has experience as a marketing manager and marketing research consultant. She teaches seminars related to consumer psychology and well-being.

Registration required

BOOST YOUR SELF-CONFIDENCE WITH 3 SIMPLE AND PRACTICAL TOOLS
Fanny Van De Poel and Rodrigue Ambara

Thursday 02.10 | 12:15–13:45 | CO 216

Improve your personal and professional well-being with a workshop on self-confidence, structured in three phases:

• Causes and consequences of low self-confidence
• Ways to increase self-confidence
• Practical exercises in small groups: Role-playing, guided discussions, confidence-building activities, meditation and relaxation

Link to register

Fanny Van De Poel is a social counselor at EPFL with a passion for human relationships, the inner workings of the mind, and solution-focused approaches. Trained in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and hypnosis, she integrates elements of both into her work with EPFL students, offering guidance and support to help them thrive academically and personally.

Rodrigue Ambara is a dedicated social counselor at EPFL, certified coach in Positive Intelligence, as well as a trained practitioner in NLP and mindfulness. His mission is to support students in developing healthy habits and routines that contribute to a balanced and fulfilling life.

Registration required

STRESS, CONFIDENCCE AND EMOTIONS: WHAT HAPPENS IN THE BRAIN ?
Catherine Marselli

Thursday 02.10 | 17:30–19:00 | BI A0 448-468-478

In this workshop, you will discover the conditions that trigger the brain’s alert state and how this can boost or hinder your cognitive performance. You will also understand why trying to “eliminate” stress can sometimes be counterproductive.We will explore how the brain generates emotions, based on the latest theories in neuroscience.
By gaining insight into these mechanisms, you will develop a new perspective on your emotional responses and leave with practical tools to better manage stress and emotions and build greater confidence in your daily life.

Link to register

Catherine Marselli is the internship program coordinator and a trainer at EPFL. She previously worked for several years in industry as a project manager and led cross-functional teams. She holds an EPFL engineer degree and a PhD in science from the University of Neuchâtel. She also earned an MBA from the Haute École de Gestion de Neuchâtel. For several years, she has been passionate about social cognitive neuroscience applied to management and integrates these new insights on how the brain works into her training and teaching.

Registration required

DEEP RELAXATION IN THE HAMMOCK
Sandrine Jaussi

Thursday 02.10 | 17:30–18:30 | GC B3 31

Treat yourself to a peaceful moment in the middle of your week. With the hammock gently suspended just below your knees, your body feels fully supported in every pose. The soft hammock wraps you in comfort, easing away tension and helping your mind to unwind. This class welcomes everyone, no matter your flexibility or experience. An opportunity to slow down, relax, and reconnect with yourself in a gentle and nurturing way.

Recommendation: Opt for comfortable clothing, such as long leggings or sweatpants paired with a light sweater. If you’re sensitive to the cold, consider bringing something to keep you warm, like a small blanket.

Link to register

Sandrine Jaussi’s artistic journey comes to life in the world of circus arts, which she practiced and shared with young people for several years. Yoga later became an important part of her life—she trained notably in Asia—and has guided her path for over 20 years. Aerial yoga naturally emerged as the perfect fusion of her two passions.

Registration required – Conference open to the general public

DECISION MAKING: THE FINE ART OF MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICES
Roman Tschäppeler and Mikael Krogerus

Thursday 03.10 | 17:30–18:30 | CM1 2

In our fast-paced and demanding world, we are constantly faced with decisions—big and small—that shape our academic, professional, and personal lives. Yet, making the right choice can be especially challenging when we are under pressure or overwhelmed by options. Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler, authors of the international bestseller “The Decision Book”—translated into 25 languages— offer practical insights into why decision-making is so difficult and how we can navigate it more effectively. In their entertaining and informative presentation on a chalkboard, they share effective tools to help everyone—whether you’re studying, working, or managing personal responsibilities—make better decisions.

Link to register

Complex ideas reduced on two lines and a few words: Thanks to their weekly column in Das Magazin, and the publication of several international bestellers, like “The Decision Book” and “The Get Things Done Book”, Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler are reknowned far beyond Switzerland. Krogerus & Tschäppeler met in 1999 at a Danish business school, attending the leadership programme The Kaospilots. They have been friends, professional partners and backgammon enemies ever since.

Registration required – Conference open to the general public

ACADEMIC CULTURE: FACING THE DARK SIDE, NURTURING THE LIGHT

Prof. Loraleigh Keashly

Friday 03.10 | 13:00–14:00 (in English) | Online

Universities and institutes are central in the creation and dissemination of knowledge that can benefit society and the world. Being part of this enterprise can be exciting and energizing. It can also be demoralizing and demeaning. How is that possible and does it need to be so? In this presentation, we will lay out the values and qualities of academic culture. We will explore the “dark side” expression of this culture (e.g., bullying, mobbing, incivility) with an eye to identifying the why and the when. We will then discuss the “light side” (when we are at our best) and ways institutions and their members can nurture these strengths and mitigate the challenges.

Link to come

Loraleigh Keashly is Professor of Communication and Distinguished Service Professor at Wayne State University in Detroit. For over 30 years, her research has focused on the quality of workplace relationships, with particular emphasis on addressing uncivil, hostile, and bullying behaviors. More recently, she has turned her attention to problematic conduct in academic environments, collaborating with universities to promote healthier, more respectful institutional cultures.

Registration required

EXPERIENCING MORE MEANING IN LIFE
Prof. Francine Petersen

Friday 03.10 | 12:15–13:15 | RLC AA1230

Finding meaning in life is difficult. But one of the reasons for this is that we have little understanding of what meaningfulness is and how to experience it. This workshop aims to demystify meaningfulness and provide you with a few tools to feel more meaning in your life. We will also talk about how meaning in life relates to purpose and happiness.

Link to register

Francine Espinoza Petersen is Associate Professor of Marketing at HEC Lausanne. Her research focuses on emotions and well-being and on understanding what makes individuals happy. She is particularly interested in how people can make better choices for themselves, society, and the environment. She holds a PhD from the University of Maryland, was an associate professor at ESMT Berlin, visiting scholar at Columbia Business School and INSEAD, and has experience as a marketing manager and marketing research consultant. She teaches seminars related to consumer psychology and well-being.

Registration required

STRESS, EMOTIONS, AND CONFIDENCE: WHAT’S REALLY HAPPENING IN OUR BRAIN?
Catherine Marselli

Friday 03.10 | 12:15–13:45 | BI A0 448-468-478

In this workshop, you will discover the conditions that trigger the brain’s alert state and how this can boost or hinder our cognitive performance. You will also understand why trying to “eliminate” stress can sometimes be counterproductive. We will explore how the brain generates emotions, based on the latest theories in neuroscience.
By gaining insight into these mechanisms, you will develop a new perspective on your emotional responses and leave with practical tools to better manage stress and emotions and build greater confidence in your daily life.

Link to register

Catherine Marselli is the internship program coordinator and a trainer at EPFL. She previously worked for several years in industry as a project manager and led cross-functional teams. She holds an EPFL engineer degree and a PhD in science from the University of Neuchâtel. She also earned an MBA from the Haute École de Gestion de Neuchâtel. For several years, she has been passionate about social cognitive neuroscience applied to management and integrates these new insights on how the brain works into her training and teaching.

Registration required – Conference open to the general public

INNOVATION IN MENTAL HEALTH
Prof. Thomas Insel

Friday 10.10 | 14:00–15:30 | Forum Rolex, EPFL

The smartphone and tablet are revolutionizing how mental health conditions are diagnosed and mental health care is delivered. This revolution is solving old problems of access and stigma, but it is introducing new problems of privacy and quality. How we navigate this brave new world of mental health can be the difference between life and death for millions of people with untreated mental illness. In this lecture, Prof. Thomas Insel describes recent progress in the use of technology and explores what we need to do to ensure that innovation delivers on its promise to transform mental health.

Link to register

Thomas Insel, M.D., is a psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and former Director of the US National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) (2002–2015). He advanced brain and mental health research through several organizations he led or co-founded. Author of “Healing: Our Path from Mental Illness to Mental Health” (Penguin Random House, 2022) and recipient of numerous awards and honors, he remains a leading voice in transforming mental health care.

Registration link available below each session

The Service Sport Santé UNIL+EPFL (SSUE) offers more than 120 physical and sporting activities on campus to get the Lausanne academic community moving, in the exceptional setting of the Dorigny Sports Centre. With sustainable health in mind, the Service SSUE invites students and staff from UNIL and EPFL to work out together in an open environment that respects differences.

SPORT | MyBreak Tonic
Monday 6 to Thursday 9 October | 10:00–10:20 (in French and English) | South entrance of the building Amphipole

A 20-minute session focusing on exercises using bodyweight only. The “Tonic” orientation is ideal in the morning to awaken your postural tone with a sequence of muscle-strengthening exercises.

Link to register (date of your choice when registering)

SPORT | MyBreak NRJ Booster
Monday 6 to Thursday 9 October | 16:00–16:20 (in French and English) | South entrance of the building Amphipole

A 20-minute session focusing on exercises using bodyweight only. The “NRJ Booster” orientation gives you a boost of energy at the end of the day, with dynamic movements to activate the cardiovascular and muscular systems.

Link to register (date of your choice when registering)

RELAXATION | Mindfulness
Thursday 9 October | 12:15–12:45 (in French) | Aumônerie
Martina Schmidt

A 30-minute introduction to meditation. A session during which attention is focused intentionally and non-judgmentally on the experience of the present moment.

Link to register

Martina Schmidt is a Protestant chaplain and pastor. The UNIL+EPFL chaplaincy offers mindfulness meditations throughout the year.

Monday 6 to Thursday 9 October | 11:00–17:00 | Hall of Amphipôle

Registration required

EXPERIENCING MORE MEANING IN LIFE
Prof. Francine Petersen

Monday 06.10 | 12:15–13:15 | POL 321

Finding meaning in life is difficult. But one of the reasons for this is that we have little understanding of what meaningfulness is and how to experience it. This workshop aims to demystify meaningfulness and provide you with a few tools to feel more meaning in your life. We will also talk about how meaning in life relates to purpose and happiness.

Link to register

Francine Espinoza Petersen is Associate Professor of Marketing at HEC Lausanne. Her research focuses on emotions and well-being and on understanding what makes individuals happy. She is particularly interested in how people can make better choices for themselves, society, and the environment. She holds a PhD from the University of Maryland, was an associate professor at ESMT Berlin, visiting scholar at Columbia Business School and INSEAD, and has experience as a marketing manager and marketing research consultant. She teaches seminars related to consumer psychology and well-being.

Registration required

WHAT REMAINS OF ANCIENT HEALTH PRACTICES TODAY?
Ophélie Magnani – Herbonomade

Monday 06.10 | 12:15–13:15 | POL 319

Aimed at health students and anyone curious, this interactive workshop explores ancient healing practices: The care of athletes and warriors, injury treatments, plants used for focus or rest, and simple preventive gestures. We’ll discover how ancient knowledge often forgotten still echoes in today’s medicine and well-being practices. An inspiring, accessible session blending archaeology, botany and gentle care practices inviting participants to reflect on past and future approaches to health.

Link to register

Trained as an archaeologist and expert in funerary anthropology and ancient knowledge, Ophélie Marchai founded Herbonomade, a project at the crossroads of medicinal botany, history and integrative health. She works with museums, universities, and designs accessible, immersive formats especially for student audiences and for all types of audiences.

Registration required

FACING STRESS DURING YOUR STUDIES AND AT WORK
Sabina Rondic

Tuesday 07.10 | 12:15–13:15 | SOC, ground-floor of Unicentre

In this workshop, find out how to better understand the factors that can lead to stress overload in a university environment. Techniques to help you manage them better will also be discussed.

Link to register

Sabina Rondic is an occupational psychologist with coaching training who supports students during their training and assists graduates in their transition to the world of work as part of the Careers and Guidance Service.

Registration required

INTRODUCTION TO SELF-HYPNOSIS FOR STRESS MANAGEMENT
Dr. Beatrice Gay

Tuesday 07.10 | 12:15–14:00 | POL 319

After a presentation of some basic hypnosis theory, practise group exercises to identify and experience the hypnotic trance state for stress management.

Link to register

After training as a nurse, Béatrice Gay studied medicine. She specialised in general internal medicine, then medical oncology, before finally devoting herself to psychiatry and psychotherapy, which she mainly practises at the CHUV and for young people in training. In parallel with her medical training, Béatrice Gay took a course in medical hypnosis 20 years ago, which she now passes on to her various patients. She has been teaching this discipline in hospitals in French-speaking Switzerland for a number of years on behalf of the Institut Romand d’Hypnose Suisse.

Registration required

CITIES AND MENTAL HEALTH
Dr. Lilith Abrahamyan Empson, Anastasie Jordan, Prof. Jérôme Favrod, Aurora Ruggeri, Jules Brischoux

Wednesday 08.10 | 12:15–13:15 | Amphipôle building (POL 340)

Cities, as sources of both stress and resources, influence the recovery of people living with psychosis. However, little is known about the urban factors that promote recovery. The “City and Mental Health” project in Lausanne, which brings together users, mental health professionals, researchers, community players and public authorities, aims to identify the components of an urban environment that is conducive to this process.

The round table will explore the findings of the scientific literature. The speakers will present the participatory methods used and discuss the co-construction of an urban landscape of recovery in Lausanne. They will highlight the value of the experiences of people with psychosis in understanding urban dynamics, for the benefit of the whole community.

Finally, they will present concrete experiments carried out in a living neighbourhood laboratory (awareness-raising, destigmatisation, enhancement of green spaces, inclusive welcome in public places), with a view to inspiring more inclusive urban mental health policies.

Link to register

Lilith Abrahamyan Empson is a psychiatrist, head of the TIPP ( Early Intervention in Psychosis) Program in General Psychiatry Service, Department of Psychiatry, CHUV, and a senior clinical lecturer in the Faculty of Biology and Medicine at UNIL. Her award winning research focuses on psychoses and the urban environment. Her teaching aims to convey the role that the material and affective characteristics of places can play in care, while drawing on approaches from the humanities and social sciences.

Anastasie Jordan is a psychiatric nurse case manager for the TIPP (Early Intervention in Psychosis) program, General Psychiatry Service, Department of Psychiatry, CHUV. The program is designed to manage emerging psychotic disorders in young adults aged 18 to 35. She is actively involved in a number of research projects.

Aurora Ruggeri is a PhD candidate at the Institute of Geography of the University of Neuchâtel. Her work focuses on mental health within urban environments, with particular attention to the role of green spaces in supporting recovery for individuals diagnosed with psychosis. Through an interdisciplinary and biosocial approach, her research addresses structural issues related to access to urban green spaces, individual and collective experiences and practices within these areas, and the biological dimensions of human-nonhuman encounters in these settings.

Jérôme Favrod is a psychiatric nurse, whose work focuses on supporting recovery process in people with severe psychiatric disorders, and developing psychosocial interventions for the symptoms that do not respond to medication. He positions nursing as an interdisciplinary applied science and service to patients with severe psychiatric disorders, connecting clinical psychiatry to research and training. He promotes peer-practitionner in clinical and academic milieu and fights against stigma, discrimination and violations of rights of psychiatric patients.

Jules Brischoux is an expert by experience in the “City and Mental Health” project. He brings his lived experience of psychosis to a multi-disciplinary team of mental health specialists and geographers.

Registration required – Conference open to the general public

MUSIC, BETWEEN PLEASURE AND HEALING
Vincent Liaudat

Wednesday 08.10 | 19:00–20:30 | Amphimax (MAX-351)

Music has many different effects. It can generate pleasure, create a state of well-being or relaxation, stimulate creativity, generate social and cultural cohesion, have a therapeutic effect or induce altered states of consciousness. What are the main ingredients that determine whether music is beneficial, healing or entertaining? In particular, certain altered states of consciousness, in certain contexts, can have a therapeutic effect. There is therefore a link between music and therapeutic effect via altered states of consciousness.

Link to register

Vincent Liaudat is a psychiatrist and psychotherapist specialising in altered states of consciousness, a multi-instrumentalist musician and sound artist.

Registration required

OVERCOMING PROCRASTINATION DURING YOUR STUDIES AND AT WORK
Stefania D’Onofrio

Thursday 09.10 | 12:15–13:15 | SOC, ground-floor of Unicentre

This workshop will help you understand the mecanisms behind procrastination. You will learn how to overcome them through an analysis of your personal situation and the presentation of various practical tools for moving forward.

Link to register

Stefania D’Onofrio is an occupational psychologist with coaching training who supports students during their training and assists graduates in their transition to the world of work as part of the Careers and Guidance Service.

Registration required

RELAXATION | MINDFULNESS
Martina Schmidt (UNIL+EPFL Chaplaincy)

Thursday 09.10 | 12:15–12:45 and 13:00–13:30 | Aumônerie

A 30-minute introduction to meditation. A session during which attention is focused intentionally and non-judgmentally on the experience of the present moment.

Link to register

Martina Schmidt is a protestant chaplain and pastor. The UNIL+EPFL Chaplaincy offers mindfulness meditations throughout the year.