The regional city of Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, offers a veterans' yoga program, where calm meets strength and veterans work towards finding peace. The program was established to create a space where the mind can take a break, and the body can relax through gentle movements and deep breaths. Formed by Maddie Rudder, The Riverina Veteran
Wellbeing Centre and Navy Health, the program is aimed at improving veterans’ mental health through the benefits of yoga.
Meet Maddie
Maddie Rudder, a veteran herself, has been on a journey involving service, resilience, and compassion. Maddie has always had a passion for wellbeing and fitness, believing it to be a gateway to healing and growth. Her connection to the military runs deep, shaped by her father's 25-year service alongside her own impactful stretch.
“I have had the amazing opportunity to work alongside the [ADF,] allowing me to see and hear so many stories from present and past serving members.”
Her experiences, coupled with an unwavering dedication to wellbeing has led her to becoming a yoga instruction, where she discovered the positive impact this practice can have on mental health.
The Benefits of yoga for Veterans
Physically, yoga enhances flexibility, strength, and posture. Through a series of poses, veterans gently stretch and tone muscles, improving overall mobility and reducing the risk of injury.
However, the benefits of yoga are more than merely physical. The emphasis on breath control and mindfulness promotes relaxation and mindfulness. "Yoga isn't just about relaxation," Maddie explains. "It's a holistic experience that addresses mental and physical health on profound levels."
Within this studio veterans can find a safe space to confront their inner struggles, embrace their emotions, and release any lingering tensions. In previous sessions Maddie shares stories of veterans rediscovering joy within memories that once brought on feelings of trauma. Thanks to this program, the improvement of veterans’ mental health can be added to the long list of the benefits of yoga.
Challenges of Yoga
While the benefits of yoga are usually well understood, many veterans may hesitate to begin their journey due to lingering fears, restricting them from taking their first step. "The biggest barrier is just starting," Maddie empathises. In Wagga Wagga, Maddie's approach fosters an inclusive environment where veterans can explore, learn, and evolve free from judgment or reservation.
Navy Health’s Dedication
At Navy Health, we're committed to supporting the wellbeing of the ADF community, particularly veterans' mental health. We believe in holistic wellness and are actively working towards supporting the community beyond just medical care. We are sponsoring this yoga program, because we want to ensure accessibility to veterans and to help them overcome any boundaries they face.
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The ADF community in Wagga Wagga is actively improving veterans’ mental health. Through the guidance of Maddie, The Riverina Veteran Wellbeing Centre and the support of Navy Health, yoga has become a source of inspiration and hope, guiding veterans towards a better future.