Many refugee friends supported by JRS UK experience a lot of stress and anxiety in their lives. Part of our work is to give them a space to relax, take their minds off their current situations, and feel connected with others. This is done through the provision of well-being practices such as acupuncture offered here at the JRS centre in Wapping.
As part of refugee week’s theme of ‘Our Home‘ this year, Farrah, a JRS UK volunteer, shares her experiences in providing these services to refugee friends and the connection of the body being ‘home’.
“I joined as a volunteer here with World Medicine offering the drop-in acupuncture sessions. In my experience, these sessions create a safe space for people to come together in groups, both receiving treatment and sharing their experiences. Especially with refugee friends, who come from diverse backgrounds, often carrying varying degrees of trauma from past experiences and ongoing challenges. These sessions provide an opportunity for them to find comfort amidst uncertainty and anxiety, simply by being present and consenting to treatment.
Seeing others receive the same care reassures those with fears from their own past experiences. Acupuncture, a well-established international practice, reduces stress and enhances well-being, restoring inner peace and dignity. It fills an emotional cup that may have been depleted.
I think home can mean different things to different people, to me, home is our body, a sanctuary wherever we are. Your brain can’t live outside your body and your body can’t function without its brain.
Our bodies carry us through life’s journey, facing external and internal disturbances. We’re influenced by societal norms, gender roles, and cultural expectations, which can lead to disconnect and self-criticism. Reconnecting with oneself through well-being practices like acupuncture, self-massage, or meditation rebuilds trust and self-love and worth. Returning home involves rebuilding a positive relationship with oneself, reclaiming self-worth and dignity.
Well-being practices help facilitate this journey back to self. By nurturing a trusting relationship with our bodies, we navigate life’s challenges with resilience. Our bodies become the foundation upon which we reconstruct self-esteem and confidence, rebuilding trust and finding safety within ourselves.”
We’d like to thank volunteers like Farrah who join us at JRS UK to provide essential well-being services. Their dedication helps our refugee friends find solace and rebuild a sense of home within themselves. Together, we continue to create a supportive community where healing and connection grow.
See current volunteering opportunities
