Tag: mental wellness

Aight Sky

The Science of Stillness: How Yoga Impacts Your Brain and Nervous System

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Anupama Verma

In our increasingly hectic world, the ancient practice of yoga offers a profound antidote: stillness. More than a physical discipline, yoga is a neurological and emotional recalibration—a way to bring balance to our overstimulated minds and bodies.

When we engage in practices like asana, pranayama (breathwork), and meditation, we actively downregulate the sympathetic nervous system, responsible for the “fight or flight” response. This shift guides the body into the parasympathetic state—the “rest and digest” mode—where healing, recovery, and mental clarity can thrive.

Scientific research supports what yogis have known for centuries. Brain imaging studies using fMRI reveal that regular yoga practitioners develop increased grey matter in regions associated with self-awareness, compassion, and emotional regulation, such as the insula and prefrontal cortex. These changes enhance our ability to manage emotions, make decisions, and cultivate inner calm.

At the same time, yoga decreases activity in the amygdala, the brain’s center for fear and stress. This quieting of the amygdala helps reduce anxiety, lower cortisol levels, and promote a greater sense of stability. Through conscious breathwork, yoga also stimulates the vagus nerve, a key communication channel between the brain and the body that governs relaxation and emotional balance.

This neurobiological transformation extends far beyond the yoga mat. As the nervous system learns to find calm amid chaos, the brain becomes more resilient, focus sharpens, and memory improves. The science of stillness reveals that yoga is not just a spiritual or physical exercise—it’s a powerful tool for reshaping the way we think, feel, and respond to the world. In stillness, we find strength; in breath, we find balance; and in presence, we find peace.

EduConnect

Goa College of Home Science Hosts Workshop on ‘Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies’

Tanisha Cardozo

In observance of World Mental Health Day 2025, Goa College of Home Science, in collaboration with the State Tele-MANAS Cell Goa, organized a thought-provoking workshop centered on this year’s global theme: ‘Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies’. The event emphasized the need for timely, accessible, and inclusive mental health care, especially during times of disaster, crisis, or public emergency.

The session brought together students, faculty, mental health professionals, and public health advocates to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by individuals during catastrophes — whether natural disasters, pandemics, conflicts, or displacement. It also highlighted the critical gaps in service access and the importance of telemedicine and remote psychological support systems, such as those enabled by the Tele-MANAS initiative, which was launched nationally to provide 24×7 mental health support.

Participants engaged in discussions on psychological first aid, trauma-informed care, and strategies for ensuring continuity of care during emergencies. The workshop also shed light on the growing mental health burden that arises during crises and the disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations such as children, women, elderly individuals, and people with pre-existing mental health conditions.

This timely initiative aligns with the World Health Organization’s global call to action, advocating for strong mental health infrastructures that are resilient and responsive to emergencies. By facilitating such knowledge-sharing platforms, Goa College of Home Science continues to play a proactive role in shaping a more empathetic and prepared society—one that recognizes mental health as a priority, even in the face of adversity.

As the world continues to navigate climate-related disasters, post-pandemic trauma, and geopolitical uncertainties, the workshop underscored that ensuring mental health services during catastrophes is not just a medical necessity but a humanitarian imperative.

Events in Goa

CM Dr. Pramod Sawant Inaugurates ‘Mann’ – Mental Health Awareness Program for Women in Sankhali

Tanisha Cardozo

Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant inaugurated “Mann” – a Mental Health Awareness Program for Women – at Ravindra Bhavan in Sankhali, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the holistic well-being of women, especially in rural areas. The event was organized by the Goa State Rural Livelihood Mission under the Department of Rural Development in collaboration with Padmani Foundation.

“Mann” aims to promote mental health awareness among women by creating safe spaces for dialogue, education, and community support. Through a series of sensitization programs, expert sessions, and peer engagement, the initiative is designed to help women better understand mental health challenges and access support systems in their communities.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant highlighted the importance of mental well-being in achieving true empowerment and applauded the collaborative effort between government and civil society organizations. He emphasized the need for continued outreach and inclusion of mental health services at the grassroots level.

The Padmani Foundation, known for its work in mental health and community outreach, brings its experience and sensitivity to the program. Their collaboration with the Goa State Rural Livelihood Mission ensures that the initiative reaches the most vulnerable women across the state, including self-help group members, rural entrepreneurs, and homemakers.

“Mann” represents a step forward in addressing mental health in rural development agendas and ensuring that women’s health and emotional resilience are prioritized alongside economic empowerment. The program will continue with a series of follow-up activities and training sessions across Goa.

Social

GCCI Women’s Wing and DRDA South Host ‘Swasth Mahila, Saksham Mahila’ Program Focused on Mental Wellness

Tanisha Cardozo

In a significant stride toward holistic women’s empowerment, the GCCI Women’s Wing, in association with DRDA South, organized a powerful program titled “Swasth Mahila, Saksham Mahila – Mental Health and Well-being for Women” on September 26, 2025, at the Mathany Saldanha Complex in Margao. The initiative brought together over 130 women from across South Goa to focus on a crucial but often overlooked aspect of empowerment: mental health.

The program commenced with a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony, symbolizing the beginning of an enlightening evening. Chairperson of the GCCI Women’s Wing, Mrs. Sandra Fernandes, welcomed the participants with a compelling message on the importance of emotional and mental wellness in a woman’s journey. She aptly stated, “When women are mentally strong and emotionally balanced, they can truly flourish in every role they play.”

Mrs. Deepali Naik, Project Director of DRDA, addressed the gathering and praised the Women’s Wing for continuously leading meaningful initiatives that cater to the real needs of women in the community. She emphasized how collaborative efforts like this can leave a lasting impact.

The heart of the program was a keynote session by well-known psychologist Ms. Neha Khaunte, who took the audience through a practical and reflective journey on stress management, emotional balance, and mindfulness. Using relatable examples and interactive exercises, Ms. Khaunte encouraged participants to acknowledge their mental health challenges while equipping them with everyday strategies to manage them. Her session was a refreshing blend of awareness, empowerment, and connection.

The event was compered with grace and clarity by Mrs. Gouri Joshi, a member of the GCCI Women’s Wing, who ensured a smooth and welcoming flow throughout the program. Mementos were distributed to the speakers and contributors, acknowledging their role in making the event a success.

The program concluded with a heartfelt Vote of Thanks delivered by Mrs. Poonam Ajgaonkar, Co-Chairperson of the GCCI Women’s Wing. She expressed deep gratitude to all the dignitaries, the enthusiastic participants, and especially to the resource person for facilitating such a vital conversation. Special recognition was also given to Ms. Melane Rodrigues, Assistant Director at GCCI, for her behind-the-scenes coordination that ensured the event’s seamless execution.

“Swasth Mahila, Saksham Mahila” was not just an event—it was a movement in itself, a reminder that true empowerment stems from nurturing not just skills and careers, but also the emotional and mental well-being of women. By offering this safe, inclusive, and engaging platform, GCCI and DRDA South reinforced their shared commitment to building stronger, healthier communities—one empowered woman at a time.

EduConnect

St. Xavier’s College Hosts Awareness Programme on International Day Against Drug Abuse

allycaralgoa

Mapusa, Goa – June 26, 2025 : St. Xavier’s College, Mapusa, took a strong stand against the growing crisis of substance abuse by organizing an educational and awareness session on the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The event, held on campus on June 26, 2025, aimed to sensitize students about the dangers of drug abuse, its ties to mental health struggles, and the importance of reaching out for help. A total of 247 students from the Arts, Commerce, Science, and Self-Financed streams actively participated in the programme.

🎤 Expert Voices on Youth and Substance Abuse

The session featured two key resource persons:

  • Dr. Sneha Pokle, Senior Consultant Psychiatrist
  • Ms. Meghna Jadhav, Clinical Psychologist
    Both are associated with the State Tele-MANAS initiative at the South Goa District Hospital, Margao.

Dr. Pokle spoke candidly about the mental health dimensions of substance abuse, urging students to recognize early warning signs and resist the glamorization of drugs on social media and in pop culture.

“Mental illness and addiction are closely linked—and both thrive in silence. Let’s break that cycle,” she said.

Ms. Jadhav introduced students to the Goa Government’s Tele-MANAS mental health helpline, stressing that confidential support is available to anyone experiencing stress, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts.

“If you’re struggling, don’t isolate—reach out. Tele-MANAS is free, private, and always listening,” she reassured.

🏫 College’s Ongoing Commitment

Setting the tone, Prof. Afonso Botelho, Nodal Officer against Drug Abuse at St. Xavier’s, reaffirmed the college’s commitment to promoting awareness and fostering resilience among students.

“At Xavier’s, we strive to nurture informed, responsible, and resilient individuals—empowered to make conscious, life-affirming decisions.”

The event was coordinated with the support of:

  • Dr. James D’ Souza (Botany)
  • Ms. Zarina Chowdari (Commerce)
  • Mr. Clarence Rodrigues (Chemistry)
  • Mr. Prasad S. Naik (Political Science)

Their collective effort helped deliver a powerful and practical message to the student body, underlining the importance of vigilance, compassion, and proactive action in combating drug abuse.

The event concluded with an earnest appeal for students to be allies in this critical fight—not just for themselves, but for their peers and communities.