Support for Ukrainian children: an initiative by Ukraine Alive 2022 promoted by the Belgian Federation of yoga.
When war brutally intrudes on a child’s life, it asks for no permission. It simply arrives and takes away the world the child once knew…
The Ukraine Alive 2022 initiative emerged as a group of volunteers, psychologists, trauma specialists, yoga teachers and somatic therapists helping the Ukrainian children who have lost a parent, survived the occupation, or carry invisible scars of war. The first core activity was rehabilitation camps for children in the Carpathian. They have now organised eleven camps, in which a total of around 1,200 children aged between 7 and 16 have taken part. Stress assessments carried out before and after the camp period (using the internationally recognised IES Impact of Event Scale) indicate a significant reduction.
«Through these experiences, we came to realise the immense need and the healing impact of our work… Gradually, the programme’s foundation was shaped by yoga philosophy, primarily the teachings of the four puruṣārthas (aims of life). In the context of trauma, these take on a very concrete and practical meaning.
Kāma: the ability to rediscover joy, pleasure and a sense of purpose in life. Artha: the development of stability, a sense of security and the necessities of life. Dharma: acting out of a sense of responsibility towards others and caring for those in need. Mokṣa: freedom from attachment, patterns, roles and identification that hinder the self and can keep a person trapped in the experience of suffering.
In this way, supporting children who have suffered such a loss is not a matter of pity or charity. It is dharma in action – a mature, conscious form of solidarity, characteristic of strong and responsible societies.
All of this is only possible thanks to donations from individuals and yoga schools across Europe who have chosen to support Ukraine in this endeavour. As a result, we have now been able to help thousands of families with food, clothing, medicines, building materials and, above all, with the sense that Ukraine does not have to face this tragedy alone. This is not merely humanitarian aid. It is a shared practice of dharma, of human dignity and responsibility.»
This winter Ukraine Alive 2022 is preparing for another camp for 120 children who have lost one of their parents. Even 10 or 20 euros makes a significant difference in ensuring that a child does not have to face their loss alone.
What can we do as a yoga community: -- A contribution from every yoga school. -- Sharing this appeal further via email addresses and newsletters . -- A personal contribution
Even the smallest donation is welcome (and a large one is certainly not turned down).
Payable to Vriendschap BE33 7360 1920 4246
Please quote ‘Ukraine Alive 2022’.
