In this digitally connected world where technology has advanced beyond our imagination, the question that needs to be asked is ‘What does true human connections mean? As artificial intelligence, robotics and virtual reality dominates every aspect of society, the lines between real human relationships have blurred.
In pursuit of solving complex problems, we are somewhere missing out on addressing basic emotions.
The power of natural human touch!
In this fast-paced world, there are those who are constantly on a ‘Move’, and there are those who are ‘Slow’. The difference in momentum has created a divide in human interactions with the ‘Slow’ being left behind.
Neurodiverse people are a group of ‘Slow’ community with unmatched capabilities in coping up with normal individuals. With natural variations in human brains, Neurodiverse people requires special attention and care. Each person with Neurodiversity has unique strengths, challenges and preferences. Unlocking their true potential through various activities is a way of helping them learn and grow.
For instance, cycling is one of the fantastic ways to get them involved in the outdoors, get some exercise and have fun. Cycling can also benefit the Neurodiverse people with unique benefits such as – sensory stimulation, physical activity, social interaction and independence.
On 2nd October 2024, SAHA community group along with the support of Borivali Cycling Association (BCA), organised a special ride for Neurodiverse children. The aim of this cycle ride was to encourage these specially abled children, motivate them and make them inclusive in our society.
The ride offered a platform to these children to get some physical activity, connect with nature and interact with the cyclists. Volunteers from BCA assisted these children to ride a bicycle and gain confidence. Parents were happy seeing their children mix along with other people and enjoy the outing.
The route was a scenic trail of Gorai with final destination being the Global Vipassana Pagoda, which is slightly away from the Mumbai city and has no traffic. Children could ride confidently on this safe route and soak in the beautiful green surroundings. The ride was flagged-off from Gorai Jetty and we reached the mid-point outside Global Vipassana Pagoda to take pictures. We rode back to the start point where medal distribution ceremony took place. The children were happy to receive their medals for the effort they put in. The total ride distance was around 10 kms.
I am glad to be a part of this social initiative and get an opportunity to capture the ride in this video. These children are god gifted and immensely talented. They need our support and we request all our readers to share this blog with everyone to spread awareness.
About SAHA:
SAHA means Togetherness. It’s a mission we envision of a thriving community of special connections for Neurodiverse individuals. At SAHA, we intend to extend our reach and work with other destitute communities too. We aim to satisfy their social needs by integrating them through various events. social meet ups, sports events and social initiatives strive to provide experiences filled with joy and camaraderie, allowing individuals find companionship within their peer groups. We welcome partnerships with like-minded groups to build a shared vision for our neurodiverse community.
SAHA is the brainchild of dedicated professionals working with Neurodiverse individuals. Ms. Aarti Parikh, Ms. Jalpa Mehta professional working at JinShiksha and Mr. Gopal Bhagwat Founder of Nav Divyang Foundation is a passionate team for supporting those with special needs and a love for sports and events. Their shared vision led to the creation of SAHA. Along with our professional support team and volunteers, we are committed to making this initiative a success.
You may connect with us as volunteers, CSR engagements and collaborations.
E-mail: saha.togetherness@gmail.com
Instagram: saha_togetherness
Call and What’s App: +91 9137848916
Photo credits: GR8 Photography by Rohit Mahadev
What are your experiences with Cycling and Neurodiversity? Share your stories in the comments below.
You might also like to read: SWEDISH TOURIST ‘HANNES’ CYCLING IN MUMBAI
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Author: Vijay Malhotra, Mumbai.
