Young Minds NE organization, dedicated to youth empowerment and wellness, has embarked on a pioneering endeavor to address mental health challenges through an innovative approach – Adventure Therapy Treks. The inaugural trek, named Healing Trek 0.1: Hiking and Healing in the Hills, took place on the Pulie Badze trail in Kohima, attracting 15 students from various colleges in the region.
Recognizing the growing demand for adventure therapy as a means of mental health intervention, Young Minds NE partnered with qualified psychologists to lead participants through a transformative journey. The trek involved digital detoxification, talking therapy, group sharing, relaxation techniques, healing activities, and experiential learning, all set against the backdrop of nature’s serenity.
Participants were encouraged to disconnect from their devices and immerse themselves in the natural environment, fostering introspection and self-discovery. Led by a lead Sports and Counseling psychologist- founder, Co Founder Counseling Psychologist Vivoto Koso and Legal consultant Jiwalo Apon of Young Minds NE, hikers engaged in solitary reflections, one-on-one therapy sessions, and group exercises aimed at promoting personal growth and resilience.
At the summit, participants engaged in a powerful ritual of sharing their personal burdens anonymously, followed by a collective reflection and mutual support. The experience culminated in moments of perspective shift, emotional release, and self-realization, demonstrating the profound impact of nature-based therapy on mental well-being.
Feedback from participants underscored the effectiveness of having professional psychologists accompany them throughout the trek. Many expressed gratitude for the safe and supportive environment created during group sessions, enabling them to confront life challenges openly and constructively.
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Adventure therapy, as observed by Sports and Counseling Psychologist involved in the program, offers a unique opportunity for individuals to address entrenched issues such as relationship dynamics, self-confidence, and existential dilemmas. The transformative potential of adventure therapy lies in its ability to catalyze personal growth and empower individuals to overcome obstacles with newfound resilience.
Building on the success of Healing Trek 0.1, Young Minds NE announced plans for a second adventure therapy hike in June 2024. The upcoming trek will incorporate both group and one-on-one therapy sessions, further enhancing its therapeutic impact.
Young Minds NE aims to promote mental health awareness and holistic well-being among Naga youths, leveraging the healing power of nature to inspire positive change.
