LIVING WITH ANXIETY
Anxiety is a natural process designed to protect us when faced with situations that threaten our well-being and survival. However, when its intensity becomes excessive, it no longer serves its protective function and literally imprisons us.
Normal anxiety differs from anxiety disorder when the person experiences both personal suffering and difficulty functioning in their daily life, at home as well as at work, with family or friends.
The rise in anxiety levels among adolescents underscores the urgent need for holistic and innovative treatment solutions.
Giving back to the next generation.
Nature-based therapies allow adolescents to reconnect with their natural environment and rediscover a sense of calm and inner peace. Research clearly demonstrates that adolescents have more difficulty than adults adhering to a psychotherapeutic regimen, even when they proactively seek treatment.
At the Respire Foundation, we believe in the importance of giving our young people the means to feel good and happy, and to forge a strong connection with nature, a source of well-being and healing.
Reconnection Program
3 breathing workshops: 1.5 hours + A special outdoor activity : 3-4 hours
Breathing workshops
After an opening circle that creates a safe and welcoming atmosphere, participants discover conscious breathing techniques, such as heart coherence, relaxation, and grounding, to find inner peace. They then experience a meditative walk in nature, in silence and attuned to their senses. The workshop concludes with a sharing session and simple tools to integrate into daily life.
Special activities:
The program includes three special activities that extend the practice.
Cold bath and sauna immersion : a supervised experience of self-discovery, alternating breathing exercises, exposure to cold, and recovery. Young people learn to manage their stress and emotions, and they strengthen their resilience and self-confidence.
A day in the mountains and meditation : a guided hike followed by guided meditation in nature. It develops perseverance, reduces stress, strengthens the connection with nature, and leaves a strong sense of accomplishment.
Sound therapy, breathing exercises, meditation, and aromatherapy : an immersive, multisensory workshop in a soothing environment. At the heart of the experience, sound therapy uses the vibrations and sounds of singing bowls, gongs, or chimes to guide participants into a state of deep relaxation. These sound waves envelop the body, encouraging letting go and helping the mind slow down. They are combined with breathing exercises and guided meditation. Aromatherapy complements the experience, using scents to help regulate emotions and soothe anxiety. The workshop promotes deep relaxation, releases tension, and calms the nervous system.
The aim of this program is to promote emotional well-being and the development of self-regulation skills in young people through mindfulness activities and connection to nature.
Approaches based on mindfulness, conscious breathing and exposure to nature demonstrate several beneficial effects on the mental health and psychosocial well-being of young people, including stress reduction and improved attention span and emotional management.
The reconnection program therefore aims to offer a structured, safe and accessible space allowing young people to develop concrete tools for well-being through experiential activities in nature.
Mission Earth, a return to oneself
A program for neurodivergent youth (autism, ADHD)
Workshops and activities lasting from 1.5 to 4 hours
Mission Earth, Return to Self offers neurodivergent youth a safe and predictable space where they can settle in, express themselves, and reconnect with themselves. It combines art therapy, conscious breathing, and contact with nature, respecting each participant's pace, sensory needs, and strengths. Each session is a mission: exploring the nature that surrounds us to better return to ourselves.
Drum classes for young people with autism: This percussion class is designed for young people with autism. They discover the rhythm, sound, and vibration of the drum in a structured, predictable, and supportive environment. The drum is an accessible instrument that requires no prior musical experience. It allows them to express themselves without words, channel their energy, and feel connected to the group. The regular beat has an organizing and calming effect, helping the body and mind to regulate themselves.
Outdoors Outing: Exploration Mission : A guided outing in a forest or nature park, where young people become explorers on a mission. By alternating movement, breathing exercises, and nature connection activities, they awaken their senses, channel their energy, and find inner peace. The route is structured in clear and predictable stages. Each stage represents a small mission to accomplish, which maintains focus and motivation throughout the outing.