Over the last 3 weeks, Ms.
Maheshwari Jani; a behaviour analyst and master in neuro-linguistic programming
has presented 3 sessions at SHAFA HOME, Delhi dedicated to self-exploration,
confidence building and personality development. These sessions have been
attended by all residents and staff members. Ms. Maheshwari Ji hosts her
sessions on Sunday mornings. When the mood is slightly flat we know we can rely
on Maheshwari Ji to infuse vivacity and energy into the dreariness!
When residents assemble in
the ‘Asha Greh’ hall, their expressions radiate both wonder and anticipation of
the forthcoming event. Finally, Ms. Mahi Ji enters and is met with a sea of
applause. On her first visit, she greeted the residents and explained her
credentials. We came to know she was self-esteem and confidence coach with
extensive training experience.
During her first session,
she fronted the residents with a poignant question. “Had we ever felt our
positive skills & qualities fell invisible to the world?” From the glimmers
of agreement in members’ eyes it was clear to see the answer was a resonant
“yes” We were intrigued to see where this was leading…In this session we played
a game designed at improving our self-expression skills, elocution and utilise our
brain power. Residents split into 9 teams and were instructed to consider each
letter in our name and attribute a positive quality we felt we possessed to
that letter. As our residents got into the swing of things, the atmosphere
buzzed with excitement! Creative juices were flowing as our minds were set to
the task. As the session as everyone shared their contributions to their
attentive audience, smiles beamed from our resident’s faces as they unlocked
their tightly-bolted doors to greet their long-forgotten companions – their
worthwhile and charming selves!
Maheshwari Ji’s second
session was dedicated to peer-relationship establishment. Her bright and bubbly
personality captivated us as she exuberantly explained the aim of this visit. In
this session, we would play “hot-seat”, wherein one member would sit in front
of his peers and answer their rapid-fire questions. The “hot seat” setup would
test each member’s willingness to open up to their past, as well as assess
their dynamic communication skills. There was a little ‘head-scratching’ and
nervous laughter as each family member took it in turns to grace the “hot seat”
Their fellow brothers and sisters asked them about their past, their present
feelings, fears and hopes for the future. It was evident to see this pushed the
answerer outside of their comfort shell, but this tested their eagerness to
release their emotional baggage. This “letting-go” is deeply crucial for a
successful recovery. 
The third session had the
residents participating in a continuation of the peer-relation strengthening
game. However, this session’s setting took on a more intimate format. Rather
than the residents collectively throwing their questions to the individual,
members split into pairs. After initial hesitation, everybody overcame their
apprehensions and confidently gave their emotional insights to their partner.
Residents had their adaptability skills and flexibility to new situations
tested perfectly. Polishing these skills would be integral to ensure a smooth
recovery in the future.
So far these sessions have
been a resounding success! Both staff and residents alike enthuse that Ms.
Jani’s activities have been a valuable chance to investigate ourselves. At
SHAFA HOME, we believe in “expecting the
unexpected”. These sessions have proved this statement beautifully since
our residents are overcoming their negative self-image and are learning to
appreciate how their past actions and behaviour have shaped them into the
person they are today – and consequently who they envisage to be in the future.
From all of us at SHAFA
HOME, we send our sincere gratitude and thanks to Ms. Maheshwari Jain for her
time, dedication and effort with our residents.
To view more pic's click on the link below :-
