This past Saturday, ReWA hosted a special event at Bothell Park that brought together a group of Ukrainian families for a day of mindful movement, gentle yoga, and reflection. The event, led by the talented Oksana Zobnova, a certified yoga instructor and peer support specialist, was designed to offer participants not only physical relaxation but also a sense of community and support during challenging times.
A Day of Connection and Learning
The event was structured into three meaningful circles, each aimed at fostering connection, learning, and personal growth.
Circle 1: Introduction and ReWA Services
The day began with introductions, allowing participants to get to know one another and learn about ReWA’s Community Support and Mental Health Navigation (CSEW & MHN) services specifically designed for Ukrainians. This initial circle also provided a brief overview of other services available at ReWA, ensuring that participants were aware of the full range of support they could access.
Circle 2: Mindful Movement and Gentle Yoga
In the second circle, participants engaged in a 70-minute session of mindful movement, gentle yoga, and breathing exercises. The serene outdoor setting of Bothell Park enhanced the experience, evoking positive memories for many of the participants. Several women shared that the outdoor yoga reminded them of their childhood in Ukraine, where they would rest outside with their families. The slow, accessible movements and the focus on mindfulness and meditation were highlights for everyone involved.
Circle 3: Reflection and Sharing
The final circle was dedicated to reflection and sharing. Participants enjoyed Ukrainian snacks and fresh berries while discussing what they had learned and how the experience impacted them. Each woman shared something new they had discovered, expressed gratitude, and talked about the skills, knowledge, or connections they would take home. This circle also sparked a meaningful discussion about the importance of community, with participants expressing a strong desire to form a ReWA-led Ukrainian women’s group in Washington state. The idea was met with enthusiastic support, highlighting the need for such initiatives in fostering a sense of belonging.
The Power of Community
Throughout the event, the participants expressed how much they appreciated being in a female Ukrainian circle. Many shared that their communication in recent years had been limited to close family members and work, making this gathering a refreshing and much-needed opportunity to connect with a wider Ukrainian community in Washington state. The sense of unity and shared experience was a powerful reminder of the importance of community in times of uncertainty.
Each participant was gifted a yoga mat, a water bottle, and a flyer on mindful movement in Ukrainian to take home, serving as tangible reminders of the day’s lessons and connections.
Moving Forward Together
ReWA’s Mindful Movement event was more than just a day of yoga; it was a step towards building a stronger, more connected Ukrainian community in Washington state. The positive feedback and the willingness of participants to continue these gatherings highlight the impact that such events can have on individuals and communities alike.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Oksana Zobnova for her partnership and to all the women who joined us. Together, we are creating spaces where Ukrainian women can find support, connection, and a sense of belonging.
Stay tuned for more events like this as we continue to build and strengthen our community.
For more information, reach out to Alina at alina@rewa.org.