Novocastrians are being encouraged to roll out their yoga mats for a great cause this month.
The Bloody Unstoppable Yoga Flow Challenge, from 25 to 31 May, invites participants to undertake daily sessions while fundraising to help keep girls in school by supporting access to menstrual health education and reusable period care kits in Cambodia.
Already, the online initiative is attracting strong local backing.
That includes University of Newcastle (UoN) PHD graduate and writer Anna Kosklin.
She describes it as an opportunity to reconnect with something bigger than herself.
“It’s a simple way to do some good, feel connected and create opportunities for girls who deserve the chance to stay in school and shape their own futures,” she said.
Ms Kosklin said the challenge also appealed because it combined wellbeing with impact.
“I love that this is something accessible and positive,” she explained.
“You don’t need to be experienced, or a major fundraiser, to take part.
“It’s about showing up, moving your body and contributing to something meaningful.”
Funds are being donated to schoolgirls in Cambodia who struggle accessing appropriate menstrual products, many of which resort to using rags instead.
The concept is the brainchild of Human & Hope founder Sally Hetherington OAM, an UoN Alumna.
And, the campaign aids girls to stay in school by providing reusable period kits and culturally-sensitive menstrual health education, as well as empowering local women through sewing programs.
The $25,000 target will offer care and education to more than 600 youngsters.
“In Cambodia, many miss school simply because they don’t have access to period products or accurate information about menstruation,” she said.
“A $40 donation provides a girl with a reusable period kit, menstrual health education and support that enables her to learn with confidence.
“At the same time, every kit is handmade by local Cambodian women earning a fair wage through Human & Hope’s vocational training programs.”
Ms Hetherington said the challenge was about creating meaningful impact through small collective actions.
“We wanted Bloody Unstoppable to feel hopeful, inclusive and achievable,” she added.
“You don’t need to change the world overnight to make a difference in someone’s life.
“This brings people together through movement, wellbeing and community, while helping girls access education and opportunity they may otherwise miss out on.”
Participants can sign up as individuals or teams and complete daily online yoga sessions guided by instructor Annette Wallington-Jones throughout the week.
Registrations are open at bloodyunstoppable.org
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