Adopt a dragon – cultural background
According to the traditional Chinese calendar, 2024 is the year of the dragon and it is believed that this year will bring new opportunities, changes and challenges. In the cultures of the East, no other mythical creature is held in such reverence as the dragon. While Western civilizations view dragons as the embodiment of evil, in countries such as China, Korea, and Japan, dragons are considered guardians of wisdom and knowledge and representations of strength. They are considered auspicious symbols and noble protectors who bring good luck, power and wisdom.

In Asia, dragons often represent the emperor or their power. The Japanese god Ryūjin is a powerful kami, protector of the country and the imperial family, and ruler of the sea. In China, Longmen, the legend of the Dragon Gate, tells how the Jade Emperor promises to turn carps into dragons if they can jump over the Dragon Gate at the mouth of a rushing river. The Chinese idiom "the carp jumped over the Dragon Gate" is often used to encourage students or children to succeed through hard work and perseverance.

Plant selection – why dracaena?
Like dragons, plants in the dracaena family come in many shapes and forms, often bearing different names. The name of this family comes from the ancient Greek word dracaena, meaning "dragoness." All dracaenas, native to Africa, parts of Asia, and Australia, are sturdy plants that can withstand harsh conditions. That is why they are often kept in our homes as potted plants.

Dracaenas tolerate sparse watering and a temporary lack of light. However, they grow lush green with proper care and can reach impressive sizes. While scientists are still researching the ability of potted plants to purify indoor air, there's no denying that having a living, green companion in the room reduces stress levels and helps you relax.

How to adopt a dragon plant?
Students must complete a form to adopt a dragon between March 20 and 27, 2024. Caregivers will be selected on April 11, 2024 and will ba able to pick up the dragon plants between April 22 and 24, 2024. By completing the form, participants agree to send 3 photos of the dragon as they acclimatize in their new home to welcome@uekat.pl. In the case of temporary adoptions, caregivers agree to return dragons in good (or better) condition for further adoptions. The campaign is carried out in accordance with the regulations of project recruitment in the "Feel good @UEKat project.

Adoption process:

1. completing the form; accepting the guidelines of the campaign;
2. awaiting the outcome of the recruitment process;
3. collecting the dragon;
4. sending 3 photos of the dragon's acclimatization and care process;
5. handing the dragon over to Welcome Point after the agreed care period for further adoption / further care in case of long-term adoption.

Purpose of the campaign
Surrounding oneself with plants benefits mental and physical health; flowers relieve stress and improve mood. As part of the campaign, several dracaenas – dragons – have been purchased and will be given to the care of students. The selected guardians can pick up their new friend, assuming custody of the dragon for the next few weeks (in the case of long-term adoption – forever). Thanks to this campaign, students can learn something new about other cultures and nature and prove their responsibility and sensitivity by taking care of a dragon plant, which can positively affect their well-being and reduce their level of day-to-day stress.