Arching Oaks has been working successfully with community Veterans support groups for the past three years, during which they have served approximately 125 individuals. These include servicemen and women facing both physical and emotional challenges stemming from combat-related experiences as well as Veterans who are now instructors and mentors to these individuals.
The Veterans’ Wellness Initiative is comprised of day-long sessions at the Arching Oaks facilities that are designed to teach techniques and strategies promoting mindfulness and stress-reduction as many of the participants face challenges associated with PTSD, Combat Stress and transitioning into civilian life. These techniques are taught through the experience of two traditional Japanese cultural practices.
The day begins with instruction in Kyudo, (Japanese archery, sometimes referred to as Zen archery), a slow-paced, mindful art followed by a Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku) walk, which promotes healing and wellness through immersion in the natural environment and has been linked to many health benefits including improved immune function, and reduced anxiety and depression.
The Veterans Outreach Initiative will be supervised by the Program Director, who will oversee all aspects of program planning and implementation. Instruction in Japanese archery will be facilitated by an instructor with 15 years’ experience and a 5th level black belt. Forest Bathing walks are facilitated by a guide certified through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, and in Wilderness First Aid.
PROGRAM GOALS:
• Introducing new practices that can improve overall well-being for Veterans and first-responders through mindfulness, breathwork and meditation techniques and can be utilized in their everyday lives
• Providing opportunities for participants to engage in activities that are based in traditional Japanese practices, helping to raise cultural awareness and empathy within the community
• Providing opportunities for participants to engage in activities that promote teamwork, fellowship and a sense of shared purpose
