Introduction:
A two-day workshop on Understanding Self was conducted by SUM College of Teacher Education on 17th and 18th February 2025. The session was facilitated by Pradeepan Malom, an expert in psychological development and stress management. The workshop aimed at providing the participants with valuable insights into organizing oneself, managing stress and tension, and promoting a peaceful life through psychological organization.


Objectives of the Workshop:

  • To help participants understand the concept of self-awareness and self-organization.
  • To explore techniques for coping with stress and tension.
  • To provide tools and methods for maintaining mental peace and emotional balance.
  • To discuss the significance of psychological organization for leading a harmonious life.

Key Highlights of the Workshop:

  1. Self-Organization: The workshop began with an in-depth discussion on self-organization, emphasizing the importance of managing one’s time, energy, and resources efficiently. Pradeepan Malom highlighted practical methods for setting goals, creating routines, and prioritizing tasks. Participants were encouraged to adopt a structured approach to their personal and professional lives, ensuring they stay focused and productive without feeling overwhelmed.
  2. Coping with Stress and Tension: A significant portion of the workshop was dedicated to stress management. Participants were introduced to a variety of strategies to cope with stress, including mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises. Malom explained how stress is a natural part of life, but how it can be managed effectively by recognizing stressors and employing techniques to reduce their impact. The importance of maintaining work-life balance was also stressed as a key factor in minimizing tension.
  3. Psychological Organization for Peaceful Living: The concept of psychological organization was explored in detail. Malom discussed how the mind, when organized, can lead to greater emotional clarity, peace, and resilience. Participants learned how to cultivate positive thinking, self-reflection, and emotional intelligence. Psychological organization was linked to an enhanced sense of self-awareness, allowing individuals to respond calmly to challenges rather than reacting impulsively.
  4. Interactive Activities and Group Discussions: The workshop was not only theory-based but also involved various interactive activities. These included group discussions, role-playing, and exercises designed to enhance self-awareness. Participants were encouraged to share personal experiences and discuss how they cope with stress in their own lives. These discussions created a supportive environment where individuals could learn from each other and find practical solutions to their challenges.
  5. Practical Tools and Techniques: Throughout the workshop, Pradeepan Malom introduced several practical tools for managing stress and enhancing psychological organization. These included:
    • Journaling: Writing down thoughts and emotions as a method of self-reflection and emotional release.
    • Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like deep breathing and meditation to improve mental clarity and reduce stress.
    • Time Management Tools: Strategies like the Pomodoro technique to help with task management and avoiding burnout.

Conclusion:
The two-day workshop provided a comprehensive and engaging exploration of understanding oneself and the psychological tools required to manage stress and maintain a peaceful life. Participants left the session with practical knowledge and techniques they could immediately apply in their daily lives. The workshop was a significant step towards fostering greater emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and psychological well-being among participants.

SUM College of Teacher Education successfully organized this workshop, offering valuable insights and tools for personal growth and mental peace. The contributions of Pradeepan Malom were instrumental in making the session informative and impactful.