Yoga classes aim to bring moments of peace to Gaza’s traumatised children
Al Jazeera
February 22, 2026
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In Gaza City, a Palestinian teacher has transformed a tent into a unique space offering yoga classes for children, providing moments of peace amidst the chaos of daily life in the conflict-ridden enclave. Hadeel al-Gharbawi, inspired by the therapeutic benefits of yoga, initiated these classes to help children cope with the trauma caused by years of violence and displacement. By combining simple movements and breathing exercises, the program aims to bring calm, safety, and joy to young minds scarred by war.
The idea for these classes emerged from al-Gharbawi's desire to expand beyond traditional methods like drawing and coloring, which she had previously used to support children dealing with trauma. Recognizing the lack of access to yoga in Gaza, she learned the practice online and began teaching it to her students. The classes not only serve as a form of physical exercise but also provide an emotional outlet for children who have experienced immense stress due to continuous cycles of violence, loss, and instability.
Children participating in these sessions sit cross-legged on mats, their eyes closed or gazing shyly at their classmates, as they follow the teacher's instructions. The atmosphere is one of focused calm, with some children finding moments of joy and others discovering a sense of control amidst their otherwise chaotic lives. According to al-Gharbawi, yoga helps them release stress and regain a sense of normalcy.
The impact of prolonged conflict on Gaza's children is profound, as highlighted by reports from the World Health Organization and UNICEF. These organizations
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/22/2026