Chukki KR (second from left) with youngsters at Nali Mana
| Photograph Credit score: Particular Association
Artwork has been a robust software for self-expression and emotional exploration for hundreds of years. Research present participating in artistic pursuits can set off the discharge of dopamine, a neurotransmitter related to pleasure and reward. This could elevate temper, enhance shallowness, and even scale back stress hormones. In baby growth, artwork affords a singular benefit – it gives a protected house for younger minds to navigate advanced feelings, construct self-awareness, and develop coping mechanisms. That is exactly the philosophy behind Nali Mana, a Bengaluru-based initiative that harnesses the ability of theatre to nurture a baby’s psychological well-being.
Nali Mana’s founder, Chukki KR, has all the time been drawn to the twin worlds of theatre and psychology. In faculty, she balanced performing along with her research in psychology, being concerned in her dad and mom’ (N Mangala and Rangayana Raghu) theatre group, Sanchari.
Psychology lessons intertwined along with her evenings spent in theatre rehearsals, prompting Chukki to unconsciously bridge the hole between the 2. This connection sparked the thought for her dissertation: exploring theatre’s impression on well-being. Interviews with fellow younger theatre artists echoed her personal expertise: “Theatre wasn’t simply performing; it formed their lifestyle.” Inspired by her supportive professor, Chukki’s dissertation grew to become the seed for Nali Mana.
Based in April 2023 after her commencement, Nali Mana at present gives a nurturing house for 15 youngsters aged between 5 and 14 to discover their feelings and construct a basis for a wholesome thoughts.
Children at Nali Mana
| Photograph Credit score:
Particular Association
Chukki envisions Nali Mana as a platform that leverages theatre as a therapeutic software for kids. “I see it enhancing their happiness, character, and general behaviour,” she explains. Whereas acknowledging the existence of artwork therapies like motion and artwork remedy that utilise self-expression by means of drawing and physique motion, she clarifies Nali Mana’s distinct method.
“In Nali Mana, we begin by breaking the ice. We now have a easy sport known as Tom and Jerry — it’s like a chasing sport. This helps the youngsters loosen up and really feel like they’re a part of a staff,” she says.
As soon as the ice is damaged, the periods seamlessly transition into storytelling. Recognising theatre’s multifaceted nature, Chukki incorporates motion and music to create a well-rounded expertise. “We would begin with just a few video games,” she provides, “Then, we would transfer on to storytelling actions and conclude with some rest strategies that use music and motion.”
“Storytelling is an enormous approach we encourage creativeness and creativity,” she explains. “We would play some music, let the youngsters chill out, after which I’ll begin telling a narrative. They must think about the story as I am going, after which as soon as it’s over, they retell it. It’s completely different from the unique story as a result of their imaginations take it in varied instructions. Generally, they’ll retell it with phrases and even draw footage. It’s superb to see how every baby interprets the identical story in another way!”
Nali Mana prioritises monitoring every baby’s progress. That is achieved by means of every day observations documented in particular person worksheets akin to non-public journals. Chukki finds this course of fascinating because it permits her to witness every baby’s transformative journey. “As an example, a baby who is likely to be hesitant to talk up on day one is likely to be taking the initiative and work together comfortably with others by day 15.”
These behavioural shifts are recorded and shared with dad and mom. Roopa R, mom to Kushaavartha P (11) and Gaanavi P (7), echoes the constructive impression of Nali Mana on her youngsters. “Earlier than Nali Mana, my youngsters wouldn’t mingle with anybody. Nevertheless, one thing modified after the periods with Chukki. It wasn’t rapid. However slowly, my son began treating his sister and me in another way. He was being useful. Even my daughter has turn into extra assured in the way in which she speaks.”
Chukki’s imaginative and prescient extends far past Nali Mana’s present attain. “Why not embrace one thing so simple as theatre if it could actually spark happiness?” she asks. Having accomplished a yr, she desires Nali Mana to collaborate with colleges. “I’m occupied with making a program for adults as nicely,” she says.
“All of us deserve an area to precise ourselves and enhance our confidence. So, Nali Mana is for extra than simply youngsters. Artwork and remedy are for everybody.”
For extra data, contact 7090959669
