Healthy Youth in All Aspects: Learning Healthy Living Through Experience and Cultural Exchange

Healthy Youth in All Aspects (Project No: 2023-3-ES02-KA152-YOU-000178532) was a Youth Exchange project coordinated by Generaciones Saludables España and implemented in Gijón, Spain, between 4 August 2024 and 10 August 2024. The project brought together young participants from Spain, Latvia, Belgium, Turkey, Romania, and Hungary, creating an intercultural learning environment where young people explored healthy lifestyles, active participation, and personal development through non-formal education.

The programme provided participants with practical opportunities to experience healthy living beyond the classroom. Outdoor learning activities encouraged them to stay physically active while discovering the natural environment surrounding Gijón. These experiences demonstrated how spending time in nature contributes to physical fitness, emotional balance, and stress reduction. Participants also strengthened their resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving skills by supporting one another throughout shared outdoor challenges.

An important educational component focused on developing a deeper understanding of healthy lifestyle choices through reflection and collaborative learning. Interactive group activities encouraged participants to analyse their daily habits, identify positive behavioural changes, and discuss practical ways to improve their overall well-being. By exchanging ideas and experiences, they recognised that healthy living involves balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, mental well-being, and positive social relationships working together.

The intercultural dimension of the exchange was reinforced through collaborative presentations and cultural sharing activities. Participants introduced traditions, customs, and healthy lifestyle practices from their home countries while learning to appreciate cultural diversity. These sessions promoted mutual respect, intercultural dialogue, and open-mindedness, helping young people discover both the differences and shared values that unite European communities. The experience also strengthened their communication skills and confidence in working within international teams.

By combining experiential learning, intercultural cooperation, and personal reflection, participants gained valuable competences that extended far beyond the project itself. They improved their understanding of holistic health, developed stronger leadership and communication skills, enhanced their cultural awareness, and became better equipped to encourage healthy lifestyles within their own communities. The knowledge and friendships built during the exchange will continue to inspire active, healthy, and socially responsible participation long after the project's completion.