Hi Guys,

I trained as a Dot Be. Mindfulness teacher last October. Since then I’ve been volunteering in a local alternative school. If you like me, are not sure what type of school this is, let me explain.

This is a school for children who struggle in main stream, for a wide range of reasons. Majority circumstantial. Many have been diagnosed with disorders and pigeon holed, many come from severely fractured homes with drug and alcohol abuse, being the norm. Many of these children are not being provided with meals with any nutrional value. Many come to school without a breakfast. The majority are living in poverty!

The kids come from all over our city and like us, all have their own story. Unfortunately, their stories are often stories, children should never have to witness!

I have seen first hand the effects, all the above are having on these young minds and can see the direct impact on mental health. The lack of support and resources has become very apparent too.

During the last few months, getting to know the kids has been both heart warming and also alarming and made me even more resolute in helping them.

I am currently providing a 10 week mindfulness programme with small groups, as many struggle in a larger group. My aim is to offer the programme to ALL the kids. I hope the course will enable them to grow, to become more resilient, to empower them and have the belief to chase their dreams and aspirations. The skills they learn will help them navigate through the difficulties of life.

I have been practising mindfulness myself for several years now and have found huge benefits In this. The Dot Be. Programme is brilliant and so relatable to the kids.

The original practice was brought from the east to the west in the 70’s by Professer John Kabat- Zinn and since then, there has been more and more research and evidence proving its benefits and postive effects it has on the brain.

With this in mind, I am desperate to create a comfy, cosy chill out room in the school. However, as the school is a charity, I really do not want to take the money from an already over stretched pot, as they have unfortunately had to make 2 staff redundant towards the end of last year!

I‘m therefore appealling to all my lovely friends and customers to make a small donation. I‘m looking at a pretty small budget of around £350 to spend on cushions, throws, beanbags, salt lamps, yoga mats and a rug.

In a nutshell, I simply want the chill out room, to feel like a safe space to relax, wind down, meditate and practice mindfulness. I would love nothing more than to see their faces, when its complete! Some of the kids became quite animated when we were discussing ideas, so I know my efforts are not in vain.

I promise to take before and after pictures too.

I know January is s tough month, but even £1 would be great and so appreciated.

Lastly I believe if we nurture and reach out to those in need, we are effectively creating a happier, safer and more productive society. There is far too much violence on our streets and knife crime is is extremely worrying amongst our youth.

These kids need love, support, and kindness. To understand empathy and gratitude and to simply be told how great they really can be and I‘m starting right NOW!

Thanks for taking the time to read this and a massive thank you in advance!

Peace and love to you all! ✌️❤️