Our Stress Less Sanctuary is back for 2026 — transforming the Guild Theatre into a calming, otherwordly abode.

Need a breather before end-of-semester chaos? Want a FREE massage, tarot reading, or pickling session? We’ve got you covered with a special sanctuary filled with a giant sun, nourishing refreshments, creative activities and gentle performances — so your brain can finally log off.

Drop in for FREE 5-minute massages, tarot readings, collaborative weaving, nature-inspired collaging, herbal tea sessions, pastries, beaded pot plant making and even a pickling workshop. And did we mention it's ALL FREE?

There’ll also be relaxing sunrise and sunset moments each day, live coding music performances, calming visuals and plenty of spots to just exist.

Designed and built by UMSU’s students, the sanctuary is inspired by the ways nature helps us slow down.

This project is also supported by UMSU's 2026 Artist In Residence, Gregory Lorenzutti — who will lead a nature-inspired performance on Thursday 28 May.

What’s happening across the week?

There's daily sunrise and sunset sessions, with extra activities each day.

Monday 25 May
Ease in with FREE 5-minute massages, beaded pot plant making and a collaborative weaving workshop, plus a live coding music performance.

Tuesday 26 May
Have your FREE tarot reading, make a nature-inspired collage, grab FREE pastries with the Welfare Department and settle into the relaxing vibes.

Wednesday 27 May
More FREE five-minute massages, another round of of tiny beaded plants, plus FREE herbal tea with the Environment Department and live coding music performance.

Thursday 28 May
A final exhale featuring tarot, nature-inspired collaging, weaving workshops and a special pickling workshop with Burnley Campus students.

Dates: Monday 25 May – Thursday 28 May
Time: 11:00am – 3:00pm daily
Location: Guild Theatre
Free!

Stop by, or let us know you're coming by saving your spot below. Please know there are limited spaces in the venue and ticket holders will gain priority entry.

Contact the host of Stress Less Sanctuary