Organisation
Need a mental reset? Join us at ‘Mentale Wasstraat’ on 24 November
Deadlines, meetings, a full inbox and a mind that keeps racing even after work. Sound familiar? On Tuesday 24 November, we invite you to step away from the daily rush for an afternoon and experience something special: a mental reset at ‘Mentale Wasstraat’ at Leiden’s Hooglandse Kerk.
All Leiden University staff, PhD candidates and postdocs are welcome. Join us for a unique festival-style experience and discover what happens when you think less and feel more. The programme combines breathing exercises, physical challenges, ice baths and bed-of-nails sessions with moments of rest, reflection and connection.
This is the Mentale Wasstraat
Due to the selected cookie settings, we cannot show this video here.
Watch the video on the original website orBoost your resilience
An ice bath or bed of nails may sound daunting, but no prior experience is required, and you can take part at your own pace. It’s not about being the best, but about discovering what works for you. Everyone is welcome, even if this is completely new to you.
In three hours, you’ll discover ways to relax, challenge yourself and reconnect with who you are. Mentale Wasstraat will help you reduce stress, build resilience and cope with setbacks. It’s a special experience to enjoy on your own or with a colleague, and one you’ll be talking about afterwards.
Practical information
When: Tuesday 24 November 2026, 14.00–17.00
Where: Hooglandse Kerk, Leiden
Cost: free with the code LUPHD2026
Sign up
Sign up and select ‘November edition - Ticket for Employees & PhD candidates’, using the code LUPHD2026. Want to experience Mentale Wasstraat with a colleague? Sign up together. Questions? Email HRMopleidingen@bb.leidenuniv.nl.
There is also a Mentale Wasstraat for students. Read about previous experiences: Come to the Mentale Wasstraat during Student Well-being Week: 'I discovered I can handle more than I thought’