Ashiyanaa

Join us virtually for Chai & Chat every alternate Tuesday! ☕️💬

To register, send an email to [email protected]

We had an absolute blast at our South Asian Seniors Meet and Greet last month! 🎉

The event was filled with fun games, delicious lunch, and great company. 🎲🌯

Thank you to everyone who participated and volunteered—we couldn’t have done it without you! 🤗

Ashiyanaa looks forward to making this a regular get-together. If you missed this one, keep an eye out for the next announcement 📢📢📢

If you have any questions or would like to attend future events, please send us a note at [email protected] and don’t forget to sign up for our monthly newsletter 📰

Happy Independence Day from the Ashiyanaa team!

We’re hiring an Executive Director! If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact, driving change, and actively engaging with local communities, we want to hear from you. Check out the job description and apply today to be part of our team: lnkd.in/eZqJjUcS

Ashiyanaa is led and supported by dedicated volunteers who are passionate about our mission to empower South Asians. Thank you, Volunteers! You are the heart and soul of Ashiyanaa.

Reflecting on a year of service to the DMV’s South Asian community with gratitude and hope for a better future.

Happy Juneteenth! Today we celebrate a day of freedom, reflection, and promise. ✨

Eid-al-Adha Mubarak! 🌙✨

To all the incredible father figures, Happy Father’s Day! Your unwavering love, guidance, and support is what makes you real-life superheroes. 🩵👨🏻‍🍼

Our 2023 Annual Report has been released! 🎉

We are thankful for the chance to make a significant impact in our community.

Click on the link to dive into our 2023 impact report.
https://ashiyanaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ANNUAL-REPORT-2023.pdf

Celebrating love, diversity, and acceptance today and every day. Happy Pride Month! 🌈

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟 Ashiyanaa is thrilled to announce our incredible partnership with The Personal Care Foundation! 🙌 Together, we’re making a real difference in the lives of survivors. 💜

Last month, our clients received essential personal care packages, generously provided by . 📦 These packages included much-needed items like , , , and – products that are often inaccessible to those experiencing financial insecurity. 💸

Did you know that these essential items are not covered by the SNAP Program? 😔 Many survivors struggle to access these products for themselves and their children, which can have a significant impact on their health, hygiene, and self-esteem. 🩹

By providing these care packages, we’re ensuring that survivors have access to the essential products they need, promoting their overall well-being and enabling a dignified for those facing . 👏

We are incredibly grateful to The Personal Care Foundation for their generous donation and support. 🙏 Together, we’re making a positive impact on the lives of survivors! 💕

☀️Join Us for the Next Ashiyanaa Seniors Meet n Greet!☀️

Mark your calendars for our upcoming Meet n Greet on Saturday, June 15th from 11 am-2:30 pm. We’re excited to welcome all South Asian seniors in the DMV area for an afternoon of lively conversation, cultural celebrations, and cherished community.

Delicious South Asian refreshments will be served as we share stories, make new friends, and soak in the joyful energy.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of the vibrant Ashiyanaa family! The event is free for seniors, but registration is required as space is limited. There are several options to register:

🔗 Registration link in bio
🤳 Scan the QR code and complete the registration
💌 Email us directly at [email protected] and let us know you’re interested

NOTE: We will be sharing the event location ONLY with those who register for the event. Sign up today!

We’re looking forward to hosting you together with our wonderful Capital One () sponsors this Summer☀️🌻😊

On this World Environment Day, let’s remember that our land is the foundation of our future. Every tree we plant, every piece of litter we pick up, and every step we take towards sustainable living secures a healthier planet for generations to come. Join us in celebrating the Earth and committing to protect our natural heritage. Together, we can make a difference. 🌱🌍

South Asia’s ancient wisdom meets modern mental health: reviving holistic healing embrace yoga for mental health!

Read the full article by visiting www.ashiyanaa.org or clicking on the link in our bio.

It’s okay not to be okay all the time. Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that our emotions are valid, and it’s perfectly normal to experience ups and downs. Remember, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Let’s support each other and break the stigma surrounding mental health. 💛

We’ve got an absolutely fabulous treat for all you sari lovers out there! 💃🧿

Mark your calendars for June 8th and 9th, because you won’t want to miss this exotic extravaganza! 🗓️ Designer Bhidisha Bhaduri is renowned for her exquisite craftsmanship and their ability to blend traditional aesthetics with contemporary flair.

If you’re on the hunt for a breathtaking sari to turn heads at your next event this sale is your one-stop shop for all things gorgeous. 🥻

Trust us, you’re going to want to be first in line for this one-of-a-kind experience. So spread the word, gather your fashionista friends, and get ready to indulge in a shopping spree like no other!

We’ll see you there, beauties! 😘

As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s acknowledge the impact of current events, loneliness, technology, and social pressures on our well-being. By understanding these influences, we can better support ourselves and each other. 💚

At Ashiyanaa, we believe in fostering a vibrant, welcoming community for all South Asian seniors. Our “Seniors Meet n Greet’’ program provides a cherished space to socialize, build meaningful connections, and celebrate the rich tapestry of South Asian culture together.

Combating the isolation and loneliness that can impact older adults is at the heart of this initiative. By creating a supportive, culturally-inviting gathering place, we empower South Asian seniors to expand their social circles, forge new bonds, and share life’s experiences and wisdom with others from similar backgrounds.

More than just events, these Meet n Greets offer an open door to lifelong friendships, priceless memories, and a reinvigorated sense of belonging. Seniors can stay engaged with an active, warm community as they age, promoting overall well-being through the joy of togetherness.

Our vision is that no South Asian senior in the DMV feels alone. The Meet n Greets are a celebration of culture, companionship, and the treasured stories that make our community so beautifully diverse. We open our doors warmly, inviting all to find their Ashiyanaa—their home—among friends.

For more than 30 years, Ashiyanaa has provided culturally sensitive interpersonal violence support and services to families with origins in the South Asian countries of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka and now living in Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. Some of their services include safety planning; referrals to legal, medical, counseling, educational and community resources; and short- and long-term case management.

Learn more about how this Domestic Violence Action Center’s partner provides safe space for AAPI survivors https://bit.ly/3z0HkrU and how intimate partner violence and Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month intersect: https://bit.ly/3k8gDsQ.

This week, let’s make our mental well-being a priority. Dedicate time to activities that fill your soul with joy, and don’t forget to treat yourself with kindness along the way.

Amidst the hustle, carve out a few moments each day to pause, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in the present. Embrace the tranquility that comes with simply being, granting yourself the space you need to thrive. 🌸

May is Mental Health Month!
It’s always a good time to start working on your mental health, here are a few tips to get you started.

To all the amazing mothers out there - today is your day to be celebrated! Mothers are the backbone of our families and communities, showcasing incredible strength, resilience, and unconditional love every single day.

Whether you’re a mother nurturing your children, a grandmother imparting wisdom, or anyone who has taken on a maternal role, we honor and appreciate the sacrifices you make. Your selflessness, compassion, and unwavering support shape lives in profound ways.

At Ashiyanaa, we’re especially in awe of the immigrant mothers who leave behind the familiar to create better futures for their families. Your courage to adapt to new cultures while preserving your values and traditions is truly inspiring.

To all mothers near and far, biological or chosen, we see you, we stand with you, we uplift you. Thank you for being the guiding lights that you are.

🌸Happy Mother’s Day!🌸

☀️Join Us for the Next Ashiyanaa Seniors Meet n Greet!☀️

Mark your calendars for our upcoming Meet n Greet on Saturday, June 15th from 11 am-2:30 PM. We’re excited to welcome all South Asian seniors in the DMV area for an afternoon of lively conversation, cultural celebrations, and cherished community.

Delicious South Asian refreshments will be served as we share stories, make new friends, and soak in the joyful energy.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of the vibrant Ashiyanaa family! The event is free for seniors, but registration is required as space is limited. There are three options to register:

🔗 Registration link: https://form.jotform.com/240704316846153

🤳 Scan the QR code on the flyer and complete the registration

💌 Email us directly at [email protected] and let us know you’re interested

NOTE: We will be sharing the event location ONLY with those who register for the event. Sign up today!

We’re looking forward to hosting you together with our wonderful Capital One sponsor this Summer☀️🌻😊

We’ve got an absolutely fabulous treat for all you sari and jewelry lovers out there! 💃🧿 Two of the most celebrated designers are coming together for an exclusive two-day event right here in Sterling, VA.

Mark your calendars for June 8th and 9th, because you won’t want to miss this exotic extravaganza! 🗓️ These designers are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and their ability to blend traditional aesthetics with contemporary flair.

Whether you’re on the hunt for a breathtaking sari to turn heads at your next event or a statement piece of jewelry that’ll elevate any outfit, this sale is your one-stop shop for all things gorgeous. 💎👗

Trust us, you’re going to want to be first in line for this one-of-a-kind experience. So spread the word, gather your fashionista friends, and get ready to indulge in a shopping spree like no other!

We’ll see you there, beauties! 😘

As South Asian immigrant parents, we often find ourselves caught in a tug-of-war between preserving our cultural roots and raising children who can thrive as global citizens. 🌍

In this thought-provoking blog post, we dive deep into the complexities of this experience. 📜

How do we strike the right balance between instilling traditional values and fostering a worldly perspective?

What are the challenges and triumphs of this journey?

From navigating identity struggles to nurturing open-mindedness, this piece offers insightful reflections and practical strategies for South Asian families raising the next generation of global citizens.🌐

Join us as we explore this delicate dance of parenting in a multicultural world.

Share your own experiences and insights in the comments! Together, we can empower our children to embrace their heritage while becoming compassionate and adaptable members of the global community.

www.ashiyanaa.org/raising-global-citizens-the-tug-of-war-in-south-asian-immigrant-parenting/

🌿 April is Stress Awareness Month 🌿

Let’s take a moment to acknowledge the importance of mental well-being. In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to overlook the impact of stress on our health. This month, let’s prioritize self-care, mindfulness, and seeking support when needed.

Have you heard of ‘The Wheel of Awareness’?

Mindfulness starts with awareness. 🌟 Dr. Daniel Siegel's Wheel of Awareness practice helps us tune into everything around us, all at once.

The aim of the tool is to help expand awareness from one’s self (being aware of internal experiences) to one’s outer world (being aware of external experiences) so as to have a full and encompassing sense of connection and knowing.

🙏🏽🟡The Wheel of Awareness Meditation🟡🙏🏽

Get into Position - To begin, find a comfortable meditation position. Either sitting on a cushion on the floor, or in a chair. Allow your spine to be straight and long, and let your shoulders drop, relaxed. Rest your hands in your lap, and gently close your eyes.

Breath Awareness - Become aware of the rhythm of your breathing. There’s no need to change your breathing in any way, simply notice it exactly as it is.

Visualize the Wheel - Now, bring to mind the image of a wheel. This wheel has a center, known as the “hub”, and four sections, or quadrants, surrounding this hub. There is a rim that encompasses everything - the four quadrants and the hub. For each part of this practice, you will zoom in on one portion of the wheel, and become aware of its contents with my guidance.

First quadrant: connect to the five senses - First turn your attention to the top, left quadrant, which houses your five senses. Zoom in on this area of your wheel by engaging your sense of hearing… what can you hear? And now your sense of touch… what can you feel? And now your sense of smell, and taste… what can you notice? Now gently open your eyes for a moment… what can you see?

Second quadrant: connect to bodily sensations - Close your eyes again, and bring your wheel back into your mind’s eye. Take a deep slow breath here. Turn your attention to the top, right quadrant, which houses your “sixth sense”, which is the inner sensations of your own body. Take a few moments to scan through your body from head to toe, becoming aware of any and all physical sensations throughout. Tingling, heat, tension, numbness. Take your time to move through each body group. Just noticing, being curious, just observing

Third quadrant: connect to mental activities - Take another nice deep breath here. And next, turn your attention to the bottom left quadrant, which houses the activities of your mind itself, including your emotions, thoughts, memories, hopes, beliefs, dreams, attitudes, and intentions. First, simply become aware of everything that is entering your mind at this moment. Welcoming this mental activity into your awareness. What thoughts and feelings are showing up right now? [30 second pause]. Next, begin to examine how these internal experiences arise and pass… do they come up suddenly or gradually? Do they stay constant, or fade in and out? Are there gaps between the different mental activities, or do these exist as one long stream of consciousness?

Hub: awareness of awareness - let’s take another nice deep breath here. And we’ll now bring our attention to the center of the wheel, the hub, which is where your awareness stems from. The hub is the ‘you’ that has noticed everything so far in this practice - the part of you that is observing, listening, looking, focusing, sensing. Take some time here, as cultivating this “awareness of awareness” takes practice.

Fourth quadrant: connect to others - let’s take another deep, slow breath here. And then turn your attention to the bottom, right quadrant of your wheel, which houses your sense of connection to the outside world. First, notice the sense of connection to the people physically closest to you right now [15-second pause]. Then, expand this sense of connection to people further away [15-second pause]. And then tap into your sense of connection to your loved ones, wherever they may be right now [15-second pause]. Then, widen your sense of connection step-by-step to include those who live in your neighborhood, city, country, continent, in the whole world, and finally to all living beings on earth

Ground yourself - As the meditation comes to an end, simply bring your attention back to your breath, as you did at the beginning of the practice. You might like to take a few deep, slow breaths here, to ground yourself back into this moment. Then, when you are ready, gently open your eyes.

✨How did you feel at the end of the practice?

✨Did you learn anything new about yourself?

✨When do you think this practice would be usefully applied in your everyday life?

Our Senior Services Program provides
culturally-sensitive support to South Asians 60 years and older and their caregivers.

We combine extensive community outreach with the knowledge we’ve gained from years of serving the community to lead programs, such as our Senior Services Program, to address the ongoing needs of South Asians in the Washington, D.C metro area and beyond.

To learn more email us on [email protected]

Honoring Mother Earth with the Wisdom of South Asia 🌍

We believe the path to protecting our planet lies in reconnecting with the timeless knowledge of South Asian cultures. This Earth Day, let's explore how the traditions and philosophies of our ancestors can inspire us to live in greater harmony with the natural world.

Did you know that the ancient Indian concept of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" translates to "the world is one family"? This profound understanding of the interconnectedness of all life is at the heart of South Asian environmental stewardship. By recognizing our kinship with all of creation, we are compelled to treat the Earth and its creatures with the utmost care and reverence.

Similarly, the ancient practice of Ayurveda - India's traditional holistic healthcare system - is deeply rooted in the belief that human health is inextricably linked to the health of the natural world. Ayurvedic practitioners use seasonal cycles, local herbs, and the five elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) to promote balance and harmony, both within the individual and the environment.

Even yoga, a beloved practice originated in the Indian subcontinent, emphasizes the importance of aligning oneself with the rhythms of nature. Through mindful movement and breath work, yoga practitioners cultivate a profound sense of unity with the natural world, which can inspire more sustainable lifestyle choices.

This Earth Day, we invite you to honor our shared home using the wisdom of South Asia:

🙏🏽Practice gratitude for the natural world. Spend time outdoors, connect with the elements, and express appreciation for Mother Earth.

🌿Adopt eco-friendly Ayurvedic remedies. Explore locally-sourced herbs, spices, and natural products to support your health and the environment.

🧘🏽Roll out your yoga mat and move with intention. Allow the ancient practice of yoga to deepen your reverence for the Earth and all its creatures.

Together, let's celebrate our roots while charting a course towards a greener, more equitable future for all.

How are you celebrating Earth Day today? Comment below and let us know.