Full Breakdown
Yoga Classes Provide Refuge for Gaza's Traumatized Children
2/23/2026, 6:26:28 AM
Transformative Yoga Initiative in Gaza
In northern Gaza, Hadeel al-Gharbawi has established a unique yoga program aimed at helping children cope with the psychological impacts of ongoing conflict. Utilizing a tent as a makeshift classroom, al-Gharbawi offers yoga classes that provide children with moments of peace amid the challenges of daily life in the besieged enclave. The initiative emerged from al-Gharbawi's desire to expand beyond traditional activities like drawing and coloring, leading her to explore yoga as a therapeutic tool for trauma recovery.
The Psychological Toll of Conflict
The emotional and mental health of children in Gaza has been severely affected by continuous cycles of violence, as highlighted by a report from the World Health Organization. The report outlines the consequences of Israel's two-year war on Gaza, which has resulted in emotional distress, social withdrawal, and grief among the youth. UNICEF has emphasized the urgent need for mental health and psychosocial support services for all children in Gaza, citing the long-lasting effects of trauma from war and displacement.
Benefits of Yoga for Children
The yoga classes, which incorporate simple movements and breathing techniques, serve as a refuge for children, allowing them to step away from their fears and express their emotions. Participants describe the experience as a source of calm and safety, even if temporary. Suwar, a displaced student, articulated the significance of these activities, stating, “We come here to do yoga, to learn and to do art. These activities allow us to forget, even for a short time, the war, the harsh weather and the queues for water.”
Educational and Recreational Programs
In addition to yoga, al-Gharbawi's initiative includes educational and recreational programs designed to stimulate the children's imaginations. She believes that combining learning with playful and therapeutic activities is crucial for helping children regain a sense of normalcy. Al-Gharbawi stated, “Combining learning with playful and therapeutic activities helps the children deal with trauma and regain a sense of normalcy.”
Conclusion: A Step Towards Healing
The yoga classes represent more than just physical exercise; they are a vital component of a broader effort to address the mental health needs of Gaza's children. As the conflict continues to impact their lives, initiatives like al-Gharbawi's offer a glimmer of hope, providing children with tools to manage stress and navigate their difficult circumstances.
