Workshops shine the light on health and happiness
Hundreds attend event on how to get more out of life
DUBAI // LightHouse Arabia yesterday held a full day of workshops for people interested in improving their mental well-being and adding vitality to their lifestyles.
About 300 people of all ages and nationalities took part in the event, said Dr Saliha Afridi, clinical psychologist and the centre’s managing director.
“Today was basically a day for well-being,” Dr Afridi said.
The centre, a clinic for mental health and wellness that provides psychological and psychiatric care for children, adults, couples and families, hosted a variety of workshops. Some of those on offer were therapy for children, parenting strategy, strategies for anxiety and nervousness, mindfulness, couples’ relationship strategy, and yoga, which provides a mind and body connection.
“We also did a mental health check- up to see how people were doing and gave them tips to guide them in improving themselves,” said Dr Afridi.
For Tania Donohue, a marketing manager from Australia, it was her first visit to LightHouse Arabia and she came away with some top tips for improving her life, she said. “I heard about the event through a friend who shared about the workshops on social media,” said Ms Donohue, 38.
“I came because I am interested in the health industry and mindfulness.
“The centre seems a perfect place to really just find out more about that and refocus.” She attended workshops on making money and relationship strategies.
“The first one helps in getting you to look at your perspectives and daily relationship with money, while the other gives goals for relationships,” Ms Donohue said.
Ismail Khadari, a Grade 2 pupil, went to the event with his mother with plans to take part in cooking and art workshops as well as seeing what other fun could be had.
“Cooking is one of my favourite things and I baked a cake,” said Ismail, 8, from America. “The art workshop was very cool. I drew Cristiano Ronaldo.” Reem Mouazzen, a SyrianAmerican management consultant, gained some important tools from her visit to the workshops. “I attended a meditation workshop and a gratitude workshop that encourages well-being and helps you live your life in very positive ways,” said Ms Mouazzen, 31.
“You are taught how to learn who you are and how to understand and listen to yourself.
“You learn how to be more productive in your life.”