1 day Workshop Overview:
The "Empowering Journeys" workshop is a unique one-day program designed to introduce autistic children aged 6 to 12 to the practice of yoga while incorporating elements of indigenous culture. The workshop aims to provide a safe and inclusive space for participants to explore yoga, improve body awareness, enhance mindfulness, and foster a connection with indigenous traditions.
Through engaging activities, storytelling, and movement, the children will embark on a transformative journey that nurtures their well-being and celebrates diverse cultural heritage.
Workshop Objectives:
1. Introduce autistic children to the benefits of yoga, including improved physical strength, balance, and flexibility, as well as increased emotional well-being and self-regulation.
2. Foster inclusivity and acceptance by creating a safe and welcoming environment for all participants.
3. Cultivate an understanding and appreciation for indigenous cultures, highlighting their contributions to holistic wellness practices.
4. Enhance body awareness, mindfulness, and self-expression in autistic children through movement and storytelling.
5. Provide practical tools and strategies for participants to continue practicing yoga and incorporating indigenous cultural elements in their daily lives.
Workshop Structure: Introduction (30 minutes): • Welcome and introduction to the workshop facilitators and participants. • Icebreaker activities to help the children become comfortable and develop a sense of belonging within the group. • Briefly explain the importance of inclusivity and respecting diverse cultural traditions.
Session 1: Connecting with Nature (60 minutes):
• Engage the children in a discussion about the importance of nature and its connection to indigenous cultures.
• Share stories and teachings from indigenous traditions that highlight the harmony between humans and nature.
• Conduct simple yoga poses inspired by animals and natural elements, such as "Tree Pose" and "Butterfly Pose."
• Guided mindfulness activity: "Becoming One with Nature" - children visualize their favorite natural environment and reflect on how it makes them feel.
Snack Break (15 minutes):
Provide healthy snacks and drinks, ensuring dietary considerations are met.
Session 2: Indigenous Storytelling (45 minutes):
• Introduce indigenous storytelling as an important cultural practice.
• Share traditional indigenous stories that emphasize values like resilience, courage, and empathy.
• Facilitate a group discussion, allowing participants to share their thoughts and reflections on the stories.
• Guided visualization activity: "Journeying with the Ancestors" - children imagine traveling back in time to a significant moment in indigenous history and embody characters from the story through gentle movements.
Lunch Break (60 minutes): Provide a nutritious lunch, accommodating dietary restrictions as needed. We encourage informal socialization and connection among participants.
Session 3: Expressive Movements (60 minutes):
• Explore different forms of artistic expression from indigenous cultures, such as dance and hand gestures.
• Teach yoga sequences that incorporate expressive movements inspired by indigenous traditions.
• Engage in a collaborative art activity where children create a group artwork depicting their interpretation of a cultural story or theme.
Session 4: Closing and Reflection (30 minutes):
• Gather the children in a circle for a closing ceremony.
• Provide an opportunity for participants to share their experiences and insights from the workshop.
• Emphasize the importance of carrying the teachings and practices learned into their daily lives.
• Offer resources, such as recommended books, websites, or local community groups, to support ongoing exploration of yoga and indigenous culture.
Conclusion: The "Empowering Journeys" workshop combines the physical, emotional, and cultural aspects of yoga to create a transformative experience for autistic children. By incorporating indigenous culture, the workshop aims to foster inclusivity, respect for diverse traditions, and a deeper connection with nature.