We understand that safety, shelter, food and medical care are the most critical needs of a recently displaced child or family. What we also understand, and what is often overlooked or underestimated, is the need for emotional and mental health support to deal with the immediate stress and trauma that can persist for years if left unattended.
In just 5-10 minutes a day, Inner Explorer’s daily mindfulness program offers an evidence-based approach to mitigate stress, attenuate trauma, and lessen depression and anxiety. Inner Explorer is a simple and accessible tool that will help Ukrainian children, including those impacted directly as refugees and those around the world who have family and friends in the war torn region. As well, Inner Explorer will help children in countries that are hosting Ukrainian children in their schools.
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Parents and caregivers in this crisis also benefit from mindfulness. When families listen to the same practices through the mobile app, no matter where they are, it provides a shared experience of calm and connection. Because adults are dealing with incredibly high stress, it impacts not only their health and well-being but also that of their children. A stressed adult is likely to be much more reactive and less available for their child’s needs. When taking care of themselves through mindfulness, they can be more responsive and present which fosters resilience for the entire family.
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Natalia's story comes from Ukraine where her work in mindful awareness persists throughout conflict and turmoil. She creates safe and supportive environments within the most trying circumstances. Natalia brings mindfulness sessions to Ukrainian children and families wherever she can,
whether it's outdoor classrooms, temporary housing, a pediatric oncology unit, or underground bomb shelters. Every day, Natalia's creativity, persistence, and passion for mindful attention creates opportunity and hope for others.
In her words, "As a mentor, my approach is grounded in the latest research on mindfulness and psychology... I believe that by partnering together, we can provide even greater support for Ukrainian children and parents.
As part of Inner Explorer's collaboration with the Ukraine Sunflower Project, Natalia has narrated a series of mindful awareness practices in Ukrainian so that students, teachers, and families can practice together in the language of their homeland."
Inner Explorer is providing mindfulness based stress reduction oriented programs to any school serving Ukrainian children around the world along with other impactful initiatives of the organization.
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Help us Plant the Seed in the hearts and minds of others that one person can make a difference!
Stephen Warshaw was an unapologetic force for creating what is possible in the world. He saw the best in everyone he met and developed deep friendships throughout his lifetime. He was full of creative ideas to inspire people to get involved in some of the biggest challenges we face in the world. The Ukraine Sunflower Project was one of his last efforts to effect sustainable change by improving the lives of Ukrainian children. The Sunflower Project provides internet-enabled mindfulness programs to reduce the ravages of stress on the body and mind so that children can have a few moments each day of peacefulness and connection. Daily mindfulness practice strengthens their sense of resilience, hope, and compassion despite the harsh realities of war. Stephen was a champion for kids, and his work lives on through this project.