Alex’s story: I was able to regain confidence and release anxiety

Hear from Alex* who attended our Third Friday session and experienced the surprising benefits of belly dancing for both physical and mental wellbeing:

*Name changed for privacy

I have been diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and movement is definitely a powerful tool to manage the impact of the anxiety. Today's session definitely helped some of these symptoms.

I regularly swim to manage the adrenaline spikes that I experience due to the condition. Swimming is a solitary activity but today's group activity was a wonderful opportunity to share with the group, supporting each other in discarding the ego and moving freely in a safe space.

The belly dance session was so powerful. Firstly, the physical workout was a joy. The comradery of the participants was culpable. As much as I appreciate the power of the non-verbal activity of craft to channel creativity and release anxiety, today's session had an impact on the somatic release of anxious energy.

I want to thank The Hera Project for for the previous sessions I have attended - particularly the art sessions I attended weekly. Through those sessions I was able to regain confidence and begin to engage in a wider social presence. I was also able to reconnect with creative energy and able to address the mental health challenges I was facing in a non- verbal but therapeutic and safe environment.

I have been successful in securing part time employment. None of this would have been possible without the services The Hera project provides.