Impact on the Community

The program made a significant impact by challenging taboos, spreading awareness, and promoting healthier lifestyle choices. Prior to the sessions, many of the adolescent girls had limited or inaccurate knowledge about menstruation, leading to misconceptions and unnecessary stress. Through interactive and engaging methods, i was able to dispel myths, provide scientifically backed information, and create a safe space for open discussions by telling stories of my first menstrual experience as well which had hints of worry and uncomfort as well for their better relatability.

• Increased Awareness and Knowledge: Many girls studying especially younger girls were unaware of the biological process of menstruation and its management. By the end of the sessions, they had a clearer understanding of their menstrual cycle, proper hygiene practices, and available menstrual products.

• Breaking Taboos and Cultural Stigma: The program created a platform for conversations that helped normalize menstruation and encouraged girls to speak openly about their concerns. This shift in mindset is essential for long-term behavioral change.

• Improved Menstrual Hygiene Practices: Girls learned practical ways to maintain hygiene using locally available resources, which is particularly important in low-resource settings.

• Building Confidence and Emotional Well-Being: Through knowledge-sharing and confidence-building activities, participants felt more empowered to manage menstruation with pride rather than shame.

Outcomes Achieved

The program successfully fostered a healthier and more informed attitude toward menstruation.

• Reduction in Fear and Anxiety.

• Enhanced Practical Knowledge.

• Encouragement of Open Conversations.

• Integration of Yoga and Pranayama.

Key Activities Conducted

1. Spreading Awareness: Educating Girls on Menstruation

• Conducted interactive discussions explaining menstruation as a natural biological process.

• Used visual aids and storytelling to help girls understand their menstrual cycle.

• Addressed common misconceptions and provided scientifically accurate information.

2. Eliminating Taboos: Managing Menstrual Health & Hygiene

• Organized skits and games to challenge myths and superstitions.

• Encouraged open discussions where girls could ask questions and share experiences.

• Taught hygienic practices such as proper disposal of menstrual products and use of clean sanitary materials.

3. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles

• Conducted yoga sessions focused on easing menstrual discomfort through specific asanas.

• Introduced pranayama (breathing exercises) to reduce stress, irritability, and bloating.

• Provided nutritional guidance using locally available foods to prevent anemia and fatigue.

4. Building Confidence and Emotional Resilience

• Engaged girls in self-reflection activities to instill pride in their womanhood.

• Used role-playing exercises to help them navigate societal pressures with confidence.

• Created a peer-support system to encourage ongoing discussions beyond the sessions.