In a heartwarming and healing initiative, Haathi in the Room, a Sydney-based not-for-profit organisation, successfully hosted the Mindfulness to Movement Workshop on Sunday, 18th May 2025, at the Rhodes Community Centre. The event brought together members of the South Asian community for an enriching afternoon of mindfulness, yoga, and energy healing.
With over three hours of guided practice, reflection, and movement, the workshop offered participants a unique opportunity to step away from daily stress and reconnect with themselves in a safe, supportive space.
Raising Awareness Around Mental Health
The workshop began with a warm welcome to all participants and an introduction to Haathi in the Room—an organisation dedicated to reducing mental health stigma within South Asian households. Inspired by the expression “elephant in the room,” Haathi (meaning “elephant” in Hindi) represents the often-unspoken struggles surrounding mental wellness in the community.
“Our mission is to spark open conversations around mental health and promote early intervention,” said a representative from Haathi in the Room. “This workshop was created as a space for healing and empowerment.”
Haathi in the Room team members are: Sue Advani, Nitasha Bhatia, Vidhisha Khetwani, Monica Das, Honey Rupani and Dolly Tanna.
Expert-Led Sessions Promote Holistic Wellbeing
Terry Haayema – International Speaker & Mindfulness Mentor
Terry delivered a powerful talk on “The Joy in Seeing Differently,” encouraging participants to shift perspective in a fast-changing, anxious world. He led a guided mindfulness session incorporating the Nam Sat mantra and Prana Mudra, aimed at awakening inner energy, clarity, and joy.
Heena Varsha Bajaj – Yoga Instructor, Vinyasa Specialist
Heena guided the group through a dynamic Vinyasa Flow practice, breathwork exercises including Anulom Vilom and Bhramari, as well as Face and Laughter Yoga. Her session emphasized breath-body connection, presence, and emotional release.
Poonam – Certified Pranic Healer
With a background in holistic energy work, Poonam introduced participants to the Twin Hearts Meditation, a globally-practiced healing technique by Master Choa Kok Sui. Her session helped participants release emotional blockages and restore energetic balance.
Positive Outcomes and Community Impact
Participants reported feeling calm, recharged, and emotionally lighter following the workshop. The interactive nature of the event fostered a sense of community and self-awareness, supporting both individual and collective well-being.
Key Benefits Highlighted:
• Emotional healing and mental clarity
• Reduction in stress and anxiety
• Heightened mindfulness and spiritual connection
• Enhanced energy, vitality, and inner peace
Looking Ahead
Haathi in the Room plans to continue its mission through future community workshops, awareness campaigns, and wellness initiatives aimed at normalising mental health care and self-expression within South Asian culture.
