The Rotaract Club of Aley recently hosted a powerful and enriching professional development session titled “Melodies & Mandalas,” aimed at promoting mental health and emotional well-being. This workshop was held in collaboration with Artist Lamia Saab Muhtar, a seasoned art therapist, who led the session designed to help participants manage stress, develop mindfulness practices, and engage in emotional healing through creative expression.
In light of Lebanon's challenging socio-political environment, where many individuals are grappling with stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges, the session provided a much-needed space for participants to pause, reflect, and learn techniques for self-care and emotional resilience. The workshop's primary objective was to equip members with tools to manage stress and promote mental well-being, which is crucial for personal growth, particularly in turbulent times. The session welcomed 13 attendees, including 12 members and guests, with 4 participants involved in the event’s execution.
The workshop covered several crucial themes, including stress management, mindfulness,emotional self-awareness, and healthy coping strategies, integrating creative methods such as mandala drawing and music therapy to help participants process emotions. By engaging in creative activities, such as music-inspired art,attendees were encouraged to explore their emotions and express them through art, which provided both therapeutic benefits and a sense of accomplishment.The "stress thermometer" exercise allowed participants to assess their stress levels and understand how to regulate their emotions more effectively, fostering greater emotional resilience.
The event not only addressed Rotary’s Peace and Conflict Prevention area of focus by promoting emotional resilience and inner peace but also contributed to Basic Education and Literacy by providing participants with practical, lifelong skills for mental well-being and self-care. By learning these techniques,participants are empowered to take charge of their mental health and become advocates for well-being in their own communities, thus creating a ripple effect of positive change.
The workshop also acted as an extension of the Rotaract Club of Aley’s vision of Extending Legacies, as it fostered an environment of care, support, and empowerment,ensuring that members feel valued and heard. The positive feedback from participants and the high satisfaction rates underline the session’s lasting impact, reinforcing the club’s commitment to offering more opportunities for personal and emotional growth.
The planning process for this successful session began with the Project Leader’s outreach to the art therapist, confirming her availability. A detailed planning meeting followed, during which the team discussed the session’s structure, objectives,and necessary materials, ensuring that the activities would be engaging and aligned with the workshop’s goals. The venue and date were selected with careful consideration of the participants' schedules to ensure maximum attendance.
To ensure all participants had access to the necessary materials, such as coloring pencils, paints, and other art supplies, the team was successful in securing a sponsor for the event. A certificate of appreciation was prepared to recognize the speaker’s contribution and expertise, honoring her valuable role in making the session a success.
Ultimately,“Melodies & Mandalas” was more than just a workshop – it was a step toward creating a supportive and empowering environment for members. It allowed participants to reflect on their mental health, learn vital self-care techniques, and practice emotional resilience, making it a crucial part of the club’s ongoing mission to foster well-being among its members. This initiative exemplifies the club’s vision of providing a space for personal growth and support, contributing not only to individual development but also to the collective health of the community.
