This Capacitar session was facilitated by Patty Abozaglo, consultant to Glencree Welcomes Refugees. Patty has been working with visual artists for the past 13 years and emphasizes the importance of self-care to prevent burnout.
The Capacitar International Multicultural and Trauma Healing Programme offers effective and transferable holistic tools for stress management and trauma recovery in a gentle manner for both individuals and communities. The programme includes the Body Scan concept to help people to gain awareness of what happens to their bodies, minds and emotions when under stress. Deep breathing, simplified Tai Chi practices, finger holds and Emotional Freedom Technique are also all parts of this programme, which has been so beneficial for communities in 40+ countries around the world, including Rwanda post-genocide, Sudan, Congo, Palestine and Israel, and Japan after the tsunami etc.
Over twenty artists including storytellers, dancers, photographers, and visual artists of many nationalities from North Africa, Europe and East Asia participated in this event. These artists work with communities in various parts of Ireland and are keen to combine these wellness practices with their arts to diversify and strengthen their work with communities.
Feedback from participants was that they found the session useful, not only for their work, but also their own personal self-care. They felt relaxed and energised at the same time. One pregnant woman, who had been feeling very tired, said she felt in great form after the session. Participants added that they found the workshop insightful, it called for reflection and brought peace of mind, self-love, compassion, and empowerment.
ENDS
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For further information:
Glencree Media Contact: Valerie Ringrose Fitzsimons | 086 3771020 | Valerie.fitzsimons@glencree.ie
