Healing Ukraine: Acupuncture To Heal a Nation

Dear Friends and Supporters,

This past July I went to Ukraine to support the Ukrainian Kundalini Yoga Academy teacher training. I was privileged to, witness first-hand the resilience and strength of the Ukrainian people, but also their profound need for healing and support. The echoes of conflict reverberate through the lives of soldiers, veterans, and civilians, leaving deep physical and emotional scars.

Perhaps you saw the news report that  the Kyiv Children's Hospital was hit a missile. We were there at that time, a couple kilometers away. The blast shook our building like a 6.0 earthquake.  I can tell you that just one experience of a missile attack affects you deeply, let alone daily booms of air defense system shooting drones and missiles from the sky. For the Ukrainians, this has been going on for two and a half years now. It is tragic. War is horrible.

In the midst of this crisis, not only was I amazed at the strength, perseverance, and unyielding spirit of the Ukrainians, I was struck by the positive reception and impact of acupuncture. As a licensed acupuncturist and Kundalini Yoga teacher with over 20 years of experience, I saw how these modalities could offer a beacon of hope and empowerment. The idea for the Ukraine Acupuncture Technician Training program was born from this experience, fueled by a deep desire to provide immediate relief and the potential to make a lasting impact.

For the past two years, I've been honored to work with the Kundalini Yoga Academy of Ukraine, witnessing the profound healing and transformation that these practices can facilitate. Now, I am committed to bringing the healing potential of Acupuncture to the people of Ukraine in conjunction with the Academy and the Ukrainian Military Yoga Therapy Program via the Center for Contemplative Awareness 501 C3 Non-Profit. Our goal to implement this first phase of the Ukrainian Acupuncture Training Program is to raise $25,000. We are deeply grateful for any and all support.

In times of conflict and war, time is of the essence and the needs are immediate. Our first training begins August 31, 2024 via an online module, and we are preparing for in-person hands- on practical training in September 2024. An advisory board comprised of acupuncture professors and professionals that share  the vision of delivering this great medicine to the people of Ukraine is being organized as well.

Your Donation Will:

• Empower Ukrainians: Train local individuals to become skilled acupuncture technicians, enabling them to provide immediate and long-term care to their communities.

• Provide Relief: Offer immediate relief from pain, anxiety, and other trauma-related symptoms, improving the quality of life for countless individuals.

• Foster Healing: Help mitigate the long-term effects of trauma, such as PTSD, depression, and chronic pain, through a combination of acupuncture, Kundalini Yoga meditations and Sat Nam Rasayan healing.

• Build Community: Create a network of skilled practitioners dedicated to supporting the healing and resilience of the Ukrainian people.

• Leave a Lasting Legacy: Contribute to the development of a sustainable acupuncture infrastructure in Ukraine, ensuring access to holistic care for generations to come.

Acupuncture's Unique Benefits for Ukraine:

• Non-invasive, drug-free pain relief: A safe and effective alternative to potentially addictive medications, potentially saving countless injured soldiers, veterans and civilians from pain killer addiction.

• Proven efficacy for PTSD: Research demonstrates acupuncture's ability to reduce PTSD symptoms, promoting emotional balance and resilience.

• Stress reduction and nervous system regulation: Crucial for individuals living in a constant state of stress and uncertainty, such as an active war conflict

• Holistic approach: Acupuncture is a holistic medicine unto itself. It supports the body’s systems to improve function naturally, supporting healing. This training will also integrate Kundalini Yoga meditations as a supportive proactice to continue the nervous system regulation and healing between and in the absence of acupuncture sessions supporting emotional healing and spiritual connection.

I've seen the transformative power of acupuncture and Kundalini Yoga in my own life and the lives of countless others. THe Ukrainians have proven these benefits are even more impactful to those living in an active military conflict zone. Now, I invite you to join me in bringing this healing to the people of Ukraine. Your generosity will make a tangible difference in their lives, offering hope, empowerment, and a path towards lasting recovery.

Together, we can help Ukraine heal. Donate today and be a part of this transformative journey.

Make your tax deductible donation directly to The Center for Contemplative Awareness 501c3 non-profit via paypal here: http://paypal.com/us/fundraiser/charity/2099099

Testimonials from the first Acupuncture Healing Program pilot participants

Direct Impact Donations

$30: Provides one box of 1,000 acupuncture needles, enabling approximately 20-33 treatments.

$40: Funds one cupping set, allowing for additional therapeutic options for pain and muscle tension relief.

$40: Covers the cost of one bolster, ensuring patient comfort during acupuncture sessions.

$150: Sponsors one trainee's 8-week clinical internship, providing valuable hands-on experience.

$155: Sponsors one trainees training tuition

$250: Equips a trainee with a complete set of essential acupuncture supplies.

$500: Funds a scholarship for one trainee, covering their full tuition and materials.

$1,000: Supports the travel expenses for one instructor to conduct the in-person training in Ukraine.

$2,500: Covers the rental of a training venue for the in-person intensive.

$5,000: Funds the entire online training component for a cohort of trainees.

$10,000: Covers all in-person training expenses, including venue rental, supplies, and instructor travel.

$25,000: Fully funds the entire training program for one cohort, and a large purchase of needles and supplies, making a significant impact on the community. Or covers the purchase of nearly 1 million acupuncture needles!

Custom Donation:  For donors who wish to make a substantial contribution, offer the opportunity to name a scholarship fund, sponsor a specific training module, or contribute to the establishment of the future acupuncture school.

Healing Ambassadors - Your donation makes a difference

Tier 1:

Spark of Kindness ($25 - $99)

Ripple of Hope ($100 - $249)

Warm Embrace ($250 - $499)

Tier 2:

Healing Touch ($500 - $999)

Path of Peace ($1,000 - $2,499)

Sanctuary of Wellness ($2,500 - $4,999)

Tier 3:

Agent of Change ($5,000 - $9,999)

Fountain of Generosity ($10,000+)

Guardian of Healing (Custom large donation)