Speech & Drama
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Speech and drama classes have help service users develop confidence, communication, and life skills. Initially aimed at helping participants find their voices, the program has successfully transformed many individuals who once struggled with public speaking and expressing themselves. Through weekly exercises involving storytelling, speech techniques, and debate, service users have gained skills that extend beyond the classroom, such as reasoning, listening, and defending points of view.
The classes, while fun, are designed to build real-world skills, and many participants have found employment or volunteer work as a result. Despite challenges like the pandemic, which forced the classes to move online, the service users adapted, learning to use technology and engaging in deep, thought-provoking discussions on topics like politics and mythology.
The impact of the program is clear: service users are more confident, articulate, and eager to express their opinions. The growth they’ve shown is inspiring, and the author believes their potential is only beginning to be unlocked. The overall message encourages people to recognize the capabilities and voices of the service users, who have become skilled performers, debaters, and advocates.
Yoga
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The yoga program at Ashiana began over 20 years ago when the instructor was invited by Yogesh Teli to start classes for service users. What began in a small studio has grown into a rewarding and impactful practice at the Bentley Day Centre, Harrow. The program has positively changed the lives of both the service users and the instructor, with noticeable improvements such as hyperactive individuals calming down and developing leadership qualities. Regular yoga practice has shifted users from rigidity to greater physical and mental flexibility and balance.
The practice follows the core principles taught by Swami Sivananda and Guruji Swami Ramanand Shastri, focusing on:
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1.Yogic Relaxation (Savasana): A pose for deep relaxation, which helps rejuvenate the body.
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2.Yogic Breathing (Pranayama): The control of breath to bring vitality and longevity, akin to the slow, deep breathing of a tortoise.
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3.Yogic Diet (Sattvic Food): A diet of natural, live food to keep the body light and healthy, supporting mental calmness.
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4.Positive Thinking & Meditation (Dhyana): Meditation to quiet the mind and remove negativity.
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5.Exercise (Yoga Asana): Physical postures that strengthen the spine, promoting overall health and energy flow.
The program has successfully run for over 20 years due to the dedication of service users, carers, volunteers, and Ashiana members. The instructor expresses gratitude for being part of their journey and wishes Ashiana continued success.
Bollywood Dance
Bollywood dance offers a unique blend of cultural expression, physical fitness, and emotional well-being, especially beneficial for individuals with learning difficulties. The rhythmic movements, vibrant music, and storytelling inherent in Bollywood dance provide an engaging way to promote body awareness, coordination, and balance. For individuals with learning difficulties, the structured nature of dance routines helps foster discipline, focus, and memory retention.
Additionally, Bollywood dance is a celebration of Asian culture, allowing participants to connect with their heritage, boosting their self-esteem and sense of identity. The creative and inclusive nature of this dance form enables individuals to express emotions and experiences in a supportive and non-judgmental environment, encouraging social interaction, teamwork, and confidence-building. As a result, Bollywood dance serves as a powerful tool for promoting physical, mental, and social development while embracing cultural pride and unity.
Ashiana has been fortunate to work with leading individuals recognised in Bollywood and beyond with our dancers being invited to perform at Diwali in the Square, Under One Sky, Melas and various other shows over the years.
