If there’s one thing that COVID-19 has taught us, it’s the importance of looking after our mental health.
For thousands of Australians, the pandemic has caused crippling stress and mental anguish.
Psychological strength and resilience are key to overcoming life’s downs, but for many, this isn’t second nature.
One woman on Brisbane’s Southside is striving to change that through educating Brisbane’s youth.
In the midst of the pandemic Bec Idiens, the owner of Lemonade Kids, launched a new program called ‘Standing Strong’.
The course is designed for girls aged between 5 and 16 years and teaches them how to develop a strong mind, heart and body through both mental and physical exercises.
“I wanted to offer parents a place where their daughters could go to share their thoughts and feelings, build positive relationships with peers and be motivated by inspiring role models,” Ms Idiens said.
“Standing Strong is designed to empower girls to build confidence, self-esteem, resilience and connection through holistic and preventative approaches to health and wellbeing.”
To help Bec launch in the middle of the crisis, Councillor Kara Cook funded the first few classes.
“When I heard about Lemonade Kids I was more than happy to fund their initial workshops and make it free for local kids to get the ball rolling during COVID-19,” Cr Cook said.
“It teaches these young girls the fundamentals they’ll need to be strong and mentally resilient through adolescence and adulthood.”
The standing strong program has been a hit with classes growing by the week.
Bec has now launched her term 4 courses and next year wants to introduce a program for boys.
“I am so excited to be working on this to ensure that Lemonade Kids can offer this amazing wellness program to all children and their families.”
