Yoga and mindfulness for Sure STEPS
We are piloting online yoga and wellbeing sessions for our Sure STEPS mums and volunteers. The project aims to provide a safe, accessible space for connection, rest and relaxation, and a chance for those in a constant care-giving role to give care to themselves.
In our first session, our yoga instructor, Sally Ramsden from Natural Connection, and the group explored ideas about yoga. “Traditionally, yoga was practiced as a preparation for meditation. It offers a way to calm down and slow down the mind and the body” Sally Ramsden. You can see the result of their brainstorm here.
“The words whole and holistic come from the word holy (sacred) - it’s so important for us to look after our wellbeing, it’s sacred.” Sally Ramsden For many people, yoga is seen as a dynamic form of exercise; one where flexibility is key. This perception can be off-putting, especially for people who may not be physically active.
To begin each session, everyone, including the staff, meet online and take a moment to check-in with how they are feeling. This process not only helps everyone to pause and reflect, but also creates an opportunity for the group to interact and support one another.
These practices are helping build a community of positive wellbeing, with peer-support at the heart. “There is something powerful about being together in a group.” Sally Ramsden
“The yoga has created a sense of support between others and also a way for me to try small movements that I would have refrained from initially. The session also helps me move my body differently to help relax certain tensions.” Anisa, a Sure STEPS mum
“I really enjoy the yoga class which teaches me ways of relax and calm.” Sara, a Sure STEPS mum
Our staff supporting the sessions are also experiencing the positive impact of yoga, an activity they had not tried before.
“Yoga is a great practice especially for the body and mind, it offers peace and mindfulness and helps you get through the daily stress, it opens up the heart and focuses on awareness. I enjoyed every moment of it [and] feel calm and relaxed after I have done it.” Ruby, Community Development Practitioner at Social Action for Health
“The Yoga class with Sure STEPS has been a godsend. Being able to have some much needed “me time” whilst in the comfort of my own living room and during the school days just worked perfectly for me. The group of mums, staff and teacher are all so friendly and kind to each other. It wasn’t anything like the yoga classes at the gym, there’s no pressure, everyone goes at their own pace and ability. I really can’t wait for the classes to start again [after the winter break] and encourage all mums to join us in a safe friendly space to support each other not just with physical aspect of yoga but mental and emotional needs it helps with too.” Nadia, a Sure STEPS volunteer
We are looking forward to continuing the pilot in the New Year. For more information about Sure STEPS, click here.
