I am a mother of two children and a school counsellor. For years, my life has revolved around responsibility. I have always been organised, structured, and focused managing my family, supporting my children, and giving my best to my students. I rarely paused to think about myself.
When I joined the Diploma Course in Guidance and Counselling at the Regional Institute of Education, Mysore, my intention was simple, I wanted to grow professionally. The online classes blended smoothly into my routine. But when the message arrived that the on-site programme was compulsory, requiring three months away from my family and the life I had carefully built and controlled, I hesitated. I wondered, Can I really do this? Yet somewhere within me, a quiet voice whispered that I needed this-not just for my career, but for myself.
When I reached Mysore, something within me softened. The campus atmosphere, the simplicity of hostel life, and the feeling of being a student again-it felt as though I had pressed a reset button on my life.
My well-being changed in ways I had never imagined. Even though a shuttle bus was available inside the campus, I chose to walk to college every day. Those walks became my therapy. The fresh air, the trees, and the quiet pathways cleared my thoughts. I began going to the ground daily, walking for five to ten minutes and doing simple exercises. They made me feel alive.
The hostel routine unexpectedly taught me the discipline of self-care. I followed the balanced menu provided, with meals that included the right nutrients and carbohydrates. Without worrying about cooking, groceries, or extra expenses, I ate what was served and trusted the system. My body began to feel lighter. My sleep improved. My mind felt less cluttered.
I reduced unnecessary screen time and spent more moments reflecting, writing, and engaging in meaningful conversations. I laughed more freely. I realised how much stress I had been silently carrying for years.
The course did not merely teach counselling theories-it held up a mirror to me. I saw my fears. I recognised my hesitation to step outside my comfort zone. Gradually, I began to let go. I felt emotionally stronger and started believing in myself again.
This break was not a luxury; it was essential. It was healing-not through escape, but through clarity. I understood that growth has no age limit. It is okay to choose yourself sometimes. Taking care of your own well-being is not selfish; it is strength.
Today, when I look back at my time at RIE Mysore, my heart feels full. I am grateful for the fear that pushed me, for the courage that followed, and for the quiet transformation that unfolded within me. I rediscovered myself-not only as a counsellor, not only as a mother but as a woman who can embrace change, nurture herself, and emerge stronger, healthier, and happier.
Sumitha Manivelan, Counseling psychologist, CHILD
