Our Research

 

The Importance of Mental Health

Around 20% of children worldwide have a mental illness. In most countries, treatment is heavily stigmatized, with suicide being the second-highest cause of death for children and adolescents aged 10-24. Due to increased academic pressure, performance pressure, and various economic burdens, mental illnesses can be a real barrier to a child's happiness. In particular, anxiety disorders affect 1 in 8 children worldwide and is a leading cause of substance abuse later in life. Although mental illnesses are highly prevalent in society for today's youth, providing children with the proper tools to curb anxiety, depression, and stress can play a vital role in restoring happiness and preventing the onset of mental illnesses. All children deserve a healthy and happy childhood, and it is up to society to provide them with the proper tools to achieve wellness and peace of mind.


The Importance of Creativity

Every child is born with the potential to be creative. It is essential to prioritize creativity so that students are encouraged to express themselves and experiment with new ideas and information. Practicing creativity in art, journaling, and music allows students to think outside of the box and analyze and interpret ideas in different ways. It also has incredible benefits for students' health as it relieves stress, increases and renews brain function, improves mood, and even boosts your immune system. According to The Connection Between Art, Healing, and Public Health, Heather L. Stuckey and Jeremy Nobel state that, "art helps people express experiences that are too difficult to put into words" and can "contribute to maintenance or reconstruction of a positive identity." Students can bring some relief to their mental and physical states by practicing creativity.


The Importance of Sustainability

Since 1970, global carbon emissions have increased by 90%. This number is predicted to continue rising due to a growing population and higher development in countries resulting in an increased need for electricity and food. These demands will continue to exacerbate climate change leading to increased flooding, job loss, food shortages, and water shortages. It is up to today's youth to be as sustainable as possible with increased recycling, water conservation, and adaptation of a sustainable diet. While many students worldwide learn the effects that climate change may have on the world, so few learn about what they can do as a youth to protect the environment and each other. Learning these tools will encourage the health of the environment while protecting the future generations to come.


Summary

Our program aims to work directly with youth to teach them about wellness through yoga, meditation, art, and eco-friendly activities. We hope to improve individual and community health and also teach children how to take care of the environment.