Personality Development Workshop- River of life

 Life skills development through River of life

Sevagram Ashram Pratishthan (SAP), Wardha organised a Residential Anandshala camp for school children between the age group  of 12 to 17 from 7 to 9 June 2023 at the premises of Sevagram Ashram.  As a part of the camp, special workshop sessions were  arranged on June 9 at the Seminar Hall and at the premises of Library and Research  Centre  of Sevagram Ashram Pratishthan .  The workshop sessions were conducted under the leadership of  Dr. Chetna Maliye,   MD, Professor, Department of Community Medicine, Mahatma Gandhi  Institute of Medical   Sciences (MGIIMS)  Sevagram  and  the  Kharangana Sector Team.  The team  members consisted of Dr. Chetna Maliye,     Dr. Shubhangi Patil,  Ms. Jayshree Vaidya , Dr. Manshree Bhuyar  and Mr. Surendra Belurkar . The aim of these workshop sessions  was to facilitate the children  to understand their personality by themselves and channelize them in positive directions. One  of the main themes of the workshop  was life skills  development through the river of life. 

"River of Life" is an activity that encourages individuals to create a visual representation of their life journey using the metaphor of a river. Participants  were  asked to draw or create a river-like pathway that represents the timeline of their life, starting from their earliest memories up to the present moment and beyond.

The activity provides an opportunity for self-reflection and introspection. Participants were  encouraged to identify and depict significant events, milestones, challenges, achievements, and transitions that have shaped their lives. They may include personal experiences, relationships, educational or professional accomplishments, and important life decisions.

The concept of the river symbolizes the continuous flow and evolution of life, with its twists and turns, calm and turbulent phases, and the potential for growth and change. By visualizing their river of life, participants gain a deeper understanding of their own experiences, patterns, and the factors that have influenced their journey.

The "River of Life" activity also promotes self-awareness, as participants reflect on how their experiences have shaped their attitudes, values, and future aspirations. It encourages individuals to consider the lessons learned, the impact of their choices, and their goals for the future.

Overall, the "River of Life" activity serves as a powerful tool for personal reflection, self-expression, and contemplation of one's life journey, allowing participants to gain insights, appreciate their growth, and envision a meaningful path forward.

This activity started with an introduction. Template was introduced to everyone to introduce themselves as follows:

1.       My name is ____________

2.       My unique characteristic is _________

3.       I love to do ______________

Participants wrote this on a blank paper in bold font. Then they were requested to do a walk and read other participant’s (at least 5 boys and 5 girls) information

Purpose of such an introduction was to make them think about themselves and think about their uniqueness. The message was given that every person has unique characteristics that make them special.

Afterward, each participant is tasked with drawing their own unique river of life, representing important life events and future aspirations. While some participants may find it challenging to envision their future, the activity prompts them to contemplate and contemplate their life path.

Participants were allowed to utilize any materials available in the surrounding to bring their river to life, fostering the utilization of their creative skills.

 Participants were divided into small groups and specific locations were allocated to do the exercise.

The participants found  this exercise  extremely useful   that was evident from the sharing of the group leaders at the end of workshop sessions.  Dr. Siby K. Joseph,  Director,  Sri Jamnalal Bajaj Memorial Library and Research Centre for Gandhian Studies,  Sevagram Ashram Pratishthan thanked the MGIMS, Sevagram team  for conducting the workshop.