Free yoga classes for asylum seekers

Emma Frame did one yoga class at a family group session for Home Start Glasgow North which helps families in the area who are going through a difficult time.

The sessions are well attended by local women with their children as well as asylum seekers just now, who often feel very isolated in the city and have experienced trauma and stress.

They loved Emma’s yoga session so much that they asked her to come back and do it again with them!

Nikki O’Hara, scheme manager at Home Start Glasgow North, said: “Many of them had never done yoga before - it’s a great way to support their health and wellbeing. It gives them time to reflect and relax.

“We hope that they then go and find a class to join in their local community which will help them to integrate.

“These family group sessions are a great way for people to make new friends and try different activities which builds their confidence.”

Emma (48) said: “The women responded really well to yoga because it offers so many different things - physical and emotional benefits.

“They said it was good to have some ‘me time’ and they felt great afterwards - very relaxed and less stressed.

“Many of these ladies have small children at home so they enjoyed some quiet time and being able take time to breathe properly.”

Home-Start Glasgow North supports families who have children under 5 and who are experiencing stress or difficulties in some area of their lives. This may include struggles with addiction, poor mental or physical health, isolation, discrimination, disability, bereavement, poverty or family conflict.

The Home-Start service relies on volunteers and they are always keen to recruit more.

To find out more about joining their fantastic team visit their website www.homestartglasgownorth.org.uk or call 945 0441/945 2289.