This poster presentation explores the use of virtual, trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness groups in refugee camps. Refugees often experience high levels of psychological distress due to pre-migration trauma, the instability of displacement, and the uncertainty of their future. Studies indicate that refugees suffer disproportionately from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. However, due to stigma, resource limitations, and cultural barriers, access to traditional mental health interventions remains limited in many refugee camps. Virtual yoga and mindfulness training provide a culturally adaptable, non-stigmatizing, and scalable solution that empowers refugees to manage their mental health in a way that respects their lived experiences.Yoga and mindfulness are evidence-based practices that have been shown to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and improve overall well-being. Yoga incorporates physical movement, breath control, and meditation, all of which help regulate the nervous system and mitigate the effects of trauma. Mindfulness, which emphasizes present-moment awareness without judgment, has been demonstrated to improve emotional regulation and resilience.Conducting these programs virtually removes logistical barriers such as the lack of trained instructors on-site and allows for greater accessibility. With the proliferation of smartphones and internet access, even in resource-limited settings, refugees can engage in virtual sessions through live instruction or pre-recorded materials. Virtual training also allows for cultural customization, where practices can be adapted to align with participants’ beliefs, traditions, and comfort levels. Despite the promise of virtual yoga and mindfulness programs, challenges remain. Limited internet access, lack of private spaces for participation, and skepticism toward non-traditional healing practices can hinder engagement. To address these issues, NGOs and humanitarian organizations must provide access to digital devices, create safe communal spaces for participation, and collaborate with local leaders to promote the benefits of these practices. Virtual yoga and mindfulness training offer a powerful tool for addressing the mental health crisis in refugee camps. By integrating these practices into humanitarian aid efforts, refugees can gain access to effective coping mechanisms that promote resilience, reduce distress, and foster hope, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life.

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