What?

I was selected to provide yoga classes in a refugee camp because 1) it fits nicely with my two passions (yoga and community development) and 2) because the existing refugee community asked for yoga sessions.

I'll be working from end of October with Lifting Hands International, the only grassroots organisation in the area delivering a range of services and activities. These are adapted to the needs of the community to build capacity or to overcome trauma. Music, crafts, sports, language classes...

Background

After ISIS attacked their homeland in 2014, those Yazidis who could have fled Iraq. Some families found a temporary home in Northern Greece. Today, around 300 Yazidis live in relative safe and manageable conditions, yet life in a refugee camp is harsh.

Over the next months’ 200 new refugees are expected to arrive. Not knowing what will come next, waiting, living on minimal resources, not able to engage in many activities or contribute to the society may make it even more challenging to overcome traumatic memories and replace them with some new, joyful experiences. (also see OHCR report)

Why?

I believe yoga can be helping refugees to overcome trauma. For me yoga and community development are a perfect match and part of my daily work. It's empowering. It's bringing about inner and outer peace. It's supporting others to meet their full potential. 

I love building bridges across cultures, beyond borders and limitations. I love seeing people at ease and with a big smile. I love listening to others' stories, learning, sharing and growing together for a more peaceful and happy world. And, one good way to share peace and happiness is through yoga.  #growthforpeace

How can I support?

It's a volunteering position because the small grass roots organisation I work with wants to invest their donations directly into supporting refugees. Please support me in bringing smiles, love and inner peace to the Yazidi refugee community in Greece.

I'll be providing yoga sessions and living on minimal resources (e.g. sleeping on an air mattress), but I can only do this if I get financial support to cover some of my expenses: 1,000€ per month. Every extra £, €, USD or CHF will extend my stay - and bring more smiles, love and peace into our wonderful world.

Like, share in your social network and if ever possible contribute financially towards a cause very close to my heart. Together we can make our world a happier place.

What's in for you?

Happiness through giving, regular updates on the project and of course also some mindfulness and yoga inputs for your own practice.

What else to say?

Merci. Thank you. Gracias. Danke. Danivad. Hvala lepa. Grazie. Dankä.