A community group in north Devon is hoping to get people active and improve their mental well-being with free yoga sessions. The Community Yoga Project started running the sessions earlier this year and now has 250 members. Hannah Shackleton founded the group because she wanted to remove financial and societal barriers to people being able to do, what she considers to be, a very important practice for one's mental health. She said it is for everyone: "We have people come along with babies in prams, people who have toddlers clambering over them, through to older people in wheelchairs and with walkers, it's really special." The group relies on donations and funding as they pay their yoga teachers but want to keep the yoga free, particularly in relation to the cost-of-living crisis. Ms Shackleton said: "People might not have the disposable income to pay 10 or 12, or even seven pounds on a class, that is why we run these sessions." For the team of yoga teachers, it is also about breaking stereotypes. Aimee Hill, one of the instructors, said it was not about competing for who can be the most bendy, she likes to make it about community. "It's a shared experience which helps fight loneliness", she added. Ms Shackleton also wants to make yoga more accessible in terms of geography. She said: "Everybody talks about how nothing comes to north Devon, and if it does it's just the main towns. "It would be great to take [Free Yoga] into other places, Torrington, Holsworthy, any where that wants us." Follow BBC Devon onX,FacebookandInstagram. Send your story ideas tospotlight@bbc.co.uk.
Free yoga sessions held for people in north Devon
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Community Yoga Project Offers Free Sessions to Promote Well-Being in North Devon"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
A community initiative in north Devon, known as the Community Yoga Project, is aiming to promote physical activity and enhance mental well-being through free yoga sessions. Founded by Hannah Shackleton, the project has gained significant traction since its inception earlier this year, attracting 250 members from diverse backgrounds. Shackleton's motivation for establishing the group was to eliminate financial and societal barriers that often prevent individuals from accessing yoga, which she views as a vital practice for mental health improvement. The sessions welcome participants of all ages and abilities, from parents with young children to older adults using mobility aids. This inclusive approach underscores the project's commitment to fostering a supportive and welcoming environment for all community members.
The Community Yoga Project operates on donations and external funding to cover the costs of yoga instructors while maintaining the sessions free of charge. Shackleton emphasizes the importance of accessibility, especially in light of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, which makes it difficult for many to afford traditional yoga classes. Instructor Aimee Hill echoes this sentiment, highlighting that the focus is not on competition or physical prowess but rather on building a sense of community and combating loneliness among participants. The initiative also aims to extend its reach beyond the main towns of north Devon, with plans to bring free yoga sessions to additional locations such as Torrington and Holsworthy, ensuring that more individuals can benefit from this enriching practice. The Community Yoga Project exemplifies a grassroots effort to enhance community health and well-being through accessible yoga opportunities.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights an initiative in North Devon aimed at promoting physical activity and mental well-being through free yoga sessions. The Community Yoga Project, founded by Hannah Shackleton, seeks to eliminate financial and societal barriers to participating in yoga, emphasizing its importance for mental health. The project has garnered a diverse member base and strives to create an inclusive environment for all ages and abilities.
Community Engagement and Inclusivity
The project appears to foster community engagement by welcoming participants from various backgrounds, including parents with young children and elderly individuals. This inclusivity is a key element, as it not only breaks down stereotypes associated with yoga but also addresses feelings of loneliness within the community. By providing a space for shared experiences, the initiative aims to strengthen community bonds.
Addressing Financial Barriers
A significant aspect of the initiative is its focus on accessibility, particularly in light of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Shackleton’s statement regarding the financial burden of typical yoga classes illustrates a clear understanding of the economic challenges faced by many individuals. By offering free sessions, the project seeks to ensure that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can benefit from yoga practice.
Geographic Accessibility
The desire to expand the program beyond North Devon’s main towns suggests a commitment to reaching underserved areas. Shackleton's vision of taking free yoga to locations like Torrington and Holsworthy demonstrates an awareness of the geographical disparities in access to wellness programs, further enhancing the initiative's appeal to those who may feel neglected by existing services.
Potential Manipulative Elements
While the article presents a positive narrative about community wellness, it could be argued that it subtly manipulates perceptions by emphasizing economic hardship and the need for free services. The language used positions the project as a savior from financial strain, potentially overshadowing other community initiatives that may also address health and wellness.
Reliability of the Information
The information presented appears credible, as it is rooted in community efforts and the personal motivations of its founder. However, the potential for bias exists in the presentation, as it may selectively highlight the positive aspects while downplaying any challenges faced by the initiative.
Comparative Analysis with Other News
In the broader context of health and community news, this article aligns with a growing trend of promoting accessible wellness initiatives. It connects with other stories focused on mental health, community support, and economic challenges, thereby creating a narrative that resonates with contemporary societal issues.
Impact on Society and Economy
The promotion of free yoga sessions could positively influence community health, potentially reducing healthcare costs associated with mental health issues. Economically, it may stimulate local engagement and support for wellness-related businesses and programs.
Target Demographics
The initiative likely attracts individuals seeking affordable wellness options, families, and those facing mental health challenges. Its inclusive approach aims to resonate with a broad audience, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
Global Relevance and Power Dynamics
While the article's focus is local, it reflects a global trend towards accessible mental health resources. This aligns with contemporary discussions on societal well-being and the importance of community-driven solutions in addressing mental health crises.
The potential use of AI in crafting this article could involve employing predictive text models to structure the narrative and emphasize community themes. If utilized, AI might have influenced the tone to be more optimistic, reinforcing the article’s intent to promote the initiative positively.
In conclusion, while the article effectively promotes a valuable community initiative and highlights its benefits, it may contain elements that could be perceived as manipulative. The focus on inclusivity and accessibility is commendable, but the framing could obscure broader discussions about community wellness and the role of diverse initiatives.