Post-Traumatic Growth Through Body–Mind Workshops
Natal
Field: Disabilities and Health
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Requested sum: $30,000
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16% of total budget
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Location: Kiryat Gat, Lachish, Shafir
// About the Organization
Natal- the Israel Trauma resilience center is a non-political NGO that was established to treat trauma victims, build resilience in the Israeli society and increase emergency preparedness.
// Project Description
Trauma survivors cannot heal without reconnecting to their bodies. Living in fear means the physical body is constantly alert. To provide the physical release Natal runs trauma awareness yoga workshops and running groups for young people, civilians and discharged soldiers affected by war and by terror. Integrating physical and emotional support is part of a therapeutic, preventive process that builds resilience.
// Project Goals
The purpose and goals of the program are to reduce trauma symptoms, reconnect body & mind and provide emotional support. Natal restores and reconnects communities by helping individuals integrate back into their community and reenter daily life and social circles.
// Target Population
Young people, survivors of the October 7th attack at Nova and other party locations, discharged soldiers, their partners and families in the area. Target audiences include ~180 direct participants, with indirect impact on family, friends, community and workplaces.
// Outcomes
Short term expected outcomes: emotional & physical regulation, reducing stress, enhancing a sense of security and belonging. Improving levels of day-to-day functioning through body & mind group activities. In the long term: strengthening personal / community resilience, participants returning to a meaningful and active life, preventing a decline in mental health and reducing dependency on professional health care.
// Project Timeline
July 2026–July 2027: Program marketing, recruitment of instructors, and operating of 15 groups: 11 yoga groups (with at least 15 sessions annually) and 4 running groups that meet year-round, plus one full-day ODT retreat per group.
// Budget Sustainability
Natal will ensure financial sustainability by continuing the current programs while seeking additional philanthropic donations and securing business partners who will commit to support the different groups over time. Natal is actively pursuing additional funding sources.
If the Partnership will not fund the full requested sum, Natal might need to reduce the number of groups and participants.
// Project establishment status
Natal already operates 3 running groups and 2 yoga groups. The program’s goal is to expand this framework and open 15 groups: 11 yoga groups and 4 running groups.