I started volunteering with The Salvation Army Toronto Grace Health Centre (TGHC) in October 2017 as I was looking for an opportunity to share something I love with people who may not normally get access to it. As I started to learn about TGHC I felt strongly that the organizations values aligned closely with mine and was very excited to begin volunteering with the Recreational Therapy team teaching Seated Yoga every Tuesday.
Volunteering at TGHC brings a lot of joy into my life – not only do I get the chance to work alongside some amazing and inspiring individuals, I get the chance to create connections. Finding little moments with shared smiles, laughs or stories is the best part of the experience.
The most inspiring moments I’ve enjoyed while volunteering teaching Seated Yoga is watching the group encourage and support each other. Many patients have never done Yoga before and seeing them cheer on and welcome newcomers, laugh together at silly moments and find joy in connecting with their breathing fills my heart. Taking time to slow down, to breathe and to move in ways that support the body can change one’s outlook on the day and seeing patients leave with a smile is a priceless experience.
Erica Connolly, Yoga Volunteer, Recreation Therapy Program