headspace Warwick is running a series of free online relaxation and ‘mindfulness’ sessions from next week aimed at young people and their parents and caregivers who live in the Southern Downs.
The sessions are designed to help young people remain ‘grounded’ and to manage feelings of stress and uncertainty, particularly during COVID-19.
It’s simple – and free – to register and participate, and the sessions will be conducted by headspace Warwick Care Coordinator Colleen Wilson.
Running for 30 minutes at a time, the six weekly sessions will be conducted on a Monday with participants sent a Zoom link to enable them to join in.
Sessions for young people in the 12 to 25 year old age group will run from 4–4.30pm on Mondays and from 4.30–5pm for parents and carers.
The material will be based on Orygen Youth Mental Health’s ‘Brief Interventions in Youth Mental Health’ – evidence-based intervention and exercises backed by the National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health.
Colleen says mindfulness is the “practice of focusing our attention to what is happening for us in the present moment, rather than getting caught up in our thoughts, fears or memories”.
“Exercises include breathing and muscle-relaxation techniques,” Colleen said.
“The purpose of the mindfulness sessions is to feel more grounded and centred in the present moment and not tangled up in your thoughts and feelings.
“Developing mindfulness and relaxation skills can help to keep us grounded so that we don’t get swept away by our thoughts and feelings.
“The benefits include feeling less stressed and worried, better sleep, more motivation and a generally happier outlook on life.”
• To enquire further or to register call headspace Warwick on 4661 1999.
