11 June 2024 –
LandWorks trainees and team members are enjoying the therapeutic effects of yoga, thanks to new sessions led by our in-house psychotherapist, Becca.
“In my years working as a counsellor for LandWorks I have increasingly become aware of the effects of trauma on the body and how this ‘shows up’ in peoples’ lives” explained Becca. “In the counselling room I often work with people who feel very disconnected from their bodies, for whom the physical body might be a source of pain or hold reminders of painful memories. Many people, not just those being supported by LandWorks, are not aware of how to breathe well to relax the body and mitigate the effects of our stressful lifestyles. By offering some trauma-informed yoga practice at LandWorks I hope to help our trainees and team feel more at home in their bodies and minds, so they are better able to meet the challenges that life may bring.”
Among the trainees enjoying the regular Tuesday morning sessions is Deer who said: “I think it’s great and a perfect way to start the morning. It’s better than I expected. It’s very well done, and you can tell how much everyone else benefits from it.”
LandWorks Chef and former trainee Mikey added: “I absolutely love it. It’s great to use my muscles and stretch my body, in ways I haven’t done before. I find it therapeutic and feel refreshed when I’m walking out of there.”
Staff member Sam praised Becca’s “calm presence and teaching style” saying the yoga sessions are a pleasant addition to Tuesday mornings. “I leave the sessions with a smile, feeling relaxed and chilled to tackle the day ahead” he explained. “Learning the numerous breathing techniques and ways to loosen the body has piqued my interest to do more.”
Trainee Justina is also benefitting from the sessions. “I think the yoga is great, I’m enjoying it. It’s tough as I’ve lost quite a lot of muscle, but I need to power through and now I can do it at home on my own. Becca is great and I get a lot of enjoyment from it. I’m interested to see what it will be like in the yurt!”
Talking of which, a huge thank you to Lilly and Chris, and to all those who sponsored their recent run in the Exeter Half Marathon. Together you raised an incredible £11,247 to purchase the yurt, making our dream of a new wellness support centre a reality.
Work is now underway to clear a site for the yurt which we aim to have open in time for our Annual Supporter’s Day in July.