We created the ’emBODYme’ project with the goal of offering participants the chance to explore, experience, and learn embodied (somatic) approaches and tools. Our aim was to empower them to bring innovative methods into play, fostering social inclusion, self-development, and community engagement
Embodiment is an innovative approach that enables youth organizations to design programs that are inclusive (universally understood and functional for everyone regardless of age, disability, education level, or race) and appealing for their target needs (embodiment enhances self expression of young people in a creative way). Additionally, we brought together a network of partner organizations that have been using embodied methods, to collaborate on improving their inclusion strategies.
emBODYme was
- a 7 day long training course to explore the unique combination of embodiment and mindfulness techniques that can be used in daily life
- a moment to relax, tune in with yourself and nature, focus on simplicity, a space to get into your own flow
- an opportunity to move, play, observe, listen, share, experiment, challenge ourselves, learn from within and from each other, get to know new people, ways & attitudes, and create this experience together.
We were 25 youth workers from 7 European countries (Cyprus, Greece, Italy, France, Slovakia and Czeck Republic) , going through an experiential program: movement, mindfulness, rituals, reflections, meditations, community building ventures, nature-based activities, improv techniques and more. We also invited all the participants to co-create the program, share and learn from each other. All of this was guided by an experienced team in a supportive and safe environment.