With a background in nursing, martial arts, and personal training, Jean Alvisse brings a wealth of experience to the Illawarra Women’s Trauma Recovery Centre.
As a trauma-informed specialist, she runs a variety of our healing support services, including our walking group, self-care group and the movement for mental health group.
The walking group is a perfect way for women to get some vitamin D, stretch their legs, and have some company in a safe group environment.
Jean said frequent stops are built into the walks so women of all fitness levels can participate.
She added that many women find the walks calming.
“The walking group provides lots of benefits for the body and mind. You are out in nature, your breathing and being mobile and you have the safety of being in a group which brings connection.” she said.
“Often afterwards our walkers tell us that it was a great experience.”
The movement for mental health group is another way for women to connect with their body and nervous system.
Held at our Shellharbour Centre Jean said this group aims to provide practical support so women can use the techniques safely at home.
She said the group allows women to perform the exercises lying down, on a chair, or standing up – whatever makes them feel most comfortable.
Often, the session begins with breathing exercises and participants becoming aware of their bodies before moving on to other techniques.
“The sessions are designed to help women get out of their head space and to drop into their body – not analysing, not overthinking, but connecting with the sensation that you are feeling in your body. Everything’s done really slowly,” Jean said.
“We also do a little bit of theory, which I try to make it fun. It’s important to know why we are doing it and what the benefits are and our aim is that women will be able to do the exercises at home on their own .
The Self-Care Group and Self-Compassion Workshop are also held in Shellharbour, and Jean says they are popular with women who want to learn more about cultivating kindness toward themselves.
All of Jean’s groups are free to attend and available for women who have experienced domestic, family and sexual violence.
If you are interested in trying out one of these groups contact us on 4243 9800 or email info@womenstrc.com.au.
Get some fresh air and meet Dusty our pet therapist who will be walking with the group. How can you resist him? Contact us for details on where to meet.
