Melissa Dunn
Rooms of Their Own Samarkand Manor

• Music
  Whether it is singing, playing an instrument, moving to music/dance or simply listening to music, music can foster deep and intense opportunities for spiritual connection for some individuals. Music can be used in groups to inspire, set a mood, create a sense of teamwork and cooperation, and/or express joy or creativity.
  
  
• Inspirational Readings
  Poetry, inspirational stories, creative writing (prose or poetry) from program participants and other readings can be very powerful compliments to lesson plans. They enable participants to connect emotionally and spiritually to the subject matter.
  
  

• Community Service/ Social Justice Projects
  Community service projects or social justice projects inspire and connect young women to something that is greater than themselves. These experiences can be powerfully spiritual. Projects like: Flood Relief, Adopt-a-Grandparent, Operation Feed, Green peace, etc. are examples of community service and social justice projects. A group community service project might not only provide opportunity for spiritual connection but also provide opportunity for teamwork as well.
  
  

• Nature/ Cycle of Life/ Gardening
  Opportunities to be in nature can be profoundly spiritual for some individuals. Discussing the cycle of life can help some individual's process grief and loss. Gardening and working with the soil can provide infinite opportunities for spiritual connection. These opportunities may not be possible as a routine component of the program, but introducing them may plant seeds or spark an interest that sprouts later in life.
  
  

• Prayer
  Prayer is highly personal and may not be appropriate for this group setting. However, supporting prayer for those program participants who discuss prayer or talk about prayer can be very nurturing and support ongoing and daily spiritual connection.