A “Somatic Therapy Workshop” integrated with nature was held in Bolu Yedigöller, within the scope of the ÜNİDES-supported project “Intercultural Bridge in Sustainability: From Awareness to Action” by the Ministry of Youth and Sports. In the event organized in cooperation with Üsküdar University Health, Culture and Sports Department (SKS), Young Brains Academy (GBA), ÜNİDES, and the Sustainable Development Club, it was aimed to increase young people's awareness of fundamental concepts such as sustainability, contact with nature, and intercultural understanding. The “Somatic Therapy Workshop,” integrated with the healing power of nature, was conducted under the guidance of Psychologist Sinem Arslan.
The workshop offered therapeutic benefits for young people to realize their body-mind integrity, develop emotional regulation skills, and access their inner resources.
Attracted attention as an innovative model
The event, brought to life with the financial support of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the academic contribution of Üsküdar University, and the dedicated efforts of civil society stakeholders working with young people in the field, stood out as an innovative model that centers on the multidimensional development of youth, serving as a successful example of University-NGO-state cooperation.
Awareness was raised on 'The Value of Young People's Project Production'
In the workshop, guided by academic advisors of the project, Dr. Nebiye Yaşar, Advisor to the Sustainable Development Club, raised awareness among participating youth on “The Value of Young People's Project Production.”
Dr. Ayhan Özşahin, Head of the Family Medicine Department at Üsküdar University Faculty of Medicine, explained “The Positive Impact of Outdoor Activities on Human Health.”
Dr. Gülcan Ayral, International Student Relations Manager at Üsküdar University, highlighted the importance of sustainability.
Aligns with sustainable psychological resilience strategies…
The workshop was structured with a scientific approach based on the effect of somatic awareness in strengthening an individual's psychological well-being. The model, developed especially by taking into account the increased stress levels of young people after the pandemic and their disconnection from nature, aligns with sustainable psychological resilience strategies.
Transformed into a learning experience that reinforces values
The event transformed into a learning experience that not only fostered individual awareness and mental well-being but also reinforced values such as social peace, building cultural bridges, and responsibility towards nature. Participating young people returned with the motivation to actively contribute to intercultural dialogue and the creation of shared values.