Mindful Minutes

In this episode of Mindful Minutes, Sunway counsellor Dini Dayana explores gratitude with honesty and nuance. Rather than treating it as a way to gloss over pain or minimise struggle, she frames it as an invitation to widen our attention to include the good stuff in life. When life feels heavy, our focus often narrows to problems alone. Gratitude doesn’t deny difficulty; it allows room for what is steady, meaningful, and life-giving alongside it.

In this episode of Mindful Minutes, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Magtum Aen, from the Student LIFE Counselling, and Wellness Unit, discusses what starting therapy is really like. From the first session to the ongoing process, he shares insights into what clients can expect, how therapists and clients work together, and what makes the experience meaningful.

In this episode of Mindful Minutes, Professor Alvin Ng, from the School of Psychology, Faculty of Medical and Life Sciences, discusses his book Happiness: Mastering the 5Gs for an Enhanced You. He explains the 5Gs of Happiness and how they offer a practical approach to cultivating happiness through micro moments of joy. Drawing from psychology and everyday experience, the conversation explores how happiness can be practised and shared, rather than simply pursued or expected to appear on its own.

Wondering how to make the most of your university experience and set yourself up for career success from day one? Rose Devaraj, Head of Career Services at Sunway University, shares her expertise on navigating the journey from your first day all the way to graduation. She explains how Sunway's career services support students throughout their academic journey, offering practical insights into building meaningful connections with industry leaders and potential employers. Rose also discusses tips for personal development beyond academic achievements, helping students understand how to align their university experience with their aspirations to make a lasting impact in their chosen fields. Whether you're just starting university or approaching graduation, this episode provides valuable guidance on maximising your potential during these transformative years. __ To find out more about Sunway's career services - available to all Sunway students - visit: www.student.sunway.edu.my/campus-life/careers-employability

In this episode of Mindful Minutes, emotions researcher and author Dr. Eugene Tee shares with us the fascinating world of character strengths. From practical methods of discovering your unique strengths to innovative ways of applying them in work, relationships, and personal growth, this episode offers a roadmap for leveraging your natural capabilities. Dr. Tee explains why understanding our character strengths isn't just a feel-good exercise, but a powerful tool for building resilience, enhancing wellbeing, and creating more meaningful contributions in our communities. To discover your character strengths, take the free survey here.

Why do New Year's resolutions so often fade by February? In this episode of Mindful Minutes, Ronald Lee, Head of Counseling and Student Welfare at Sunway University, unpacks the psychology behind habit formation and sustainable lifestyle changes. Learn practical strategies to overcome common obstacles, understand what truly drives behavioural change, and discover how to transform your health and fitness goals from fleeting wishes into lasting habits. Whether you're looking to start your fitness journey or rebuild a lost routine, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you succeed in your wellness goals.__To learn more about Sunway Counselling and Wellness visit https://student.sunway.edu.my/campus-life/counselling-wellness

In this episode, we discuss a simple yet powerful way to improve mental well-being: prioritising joy. While stress management and self-care are essential, we often overlook how everyday moments of happiness can help us through tough times. Whether it’s making time for friends, enjoying a favourite song, laughing at a comedy clip, or savouring a comforting meal, these small acts can uplift us. By intentionally creating these moments, we balance life’s challenges with a sense of gratitude and connection. Let's explore how to bring more joy into your routine and cultivate resilience in the process.

In this short episode, we answer a question about how movies and sports can help with stress. Rather than recommending specific films or activities, we explore why engaging in things you genuinely enjoy naturally lowers stress. Whether it’s watching a gripping thriller or playing badminton, these moments of enjoyment create mental breaks from life’s pressures. But there’s a catch...if you approach these activities with the sole aim of stress relief, it can backfire, becoming yet another task on your to-do list. Instead, we discuss the importance of doing what you love for the sake of enjoyment and how this can build resilience to stress over time.

In this episode, we explore the benefits of reading for our mental health and talk about how immersing yourself in a good book can reduce stress, alleviate anxiety and depression symptoms, and even improve your sleep quality. We'll discuss the transformative power of reading, from enhancing your critical thinking skills and emotional intelligence to fostering personal growth and self-discovery. Plus, we'll take you on a virtual tour of the Sunway library, highlighting must-read books for your mental well-being journey. __ Whenever you need us, we're ready to help you. If you're a Sunway student and need urgent help you can contact our 24/7 hotline on 015-4887-0405 or you can WhatsApp us 24/7 on 011-3011-6505.

Join Professor Alvin Ng, Associate Dean (International) at Sunway University's School of Medical and Life Sciences, and host Sandy Clarke on this special episode of Mindful Minutes. As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, Prof. Alvin and Sandy address three pressing mental health questions posed by Sunway University students. They share their thoughts on how to manage stress, the benefits of therapy, and how to support friends and loved ones going through a difficult time. -- Whenever you need us, we're ready to help you. If you're a Sunway student and need urgent help, contact our 24/7 hotline on 015-4887-0405; or, you can WhatsApp us 24/7 on 011-3011-6505.