How the Southside Women’s Wellbeing Group is helping mums find community and creativity

Posted on 17 October, 2024

Motherhood can be a whirlwind – sleepless nights, endless to-do lists, and the constant hum of responsibility.

But what if there was a space where you could unwind, meet new women, and indulge your creative side, all while your little ones are being well cared for?

Enter the Southside Women’s Wellbeing Group, a supportive community that prioritises wellbeing and allows you to make lifelong connections.

Running every Tuesday during the school term, the Southside Women’s Wellbeing Group welcomes women from all across Canberra, (no matter if you’re a north-sider, south-sider, or somewhere in between), offering them the chance to connect, create, and recharge while little ones (aged zero to five) enjoy the adjunct childcare provided.

Each week brings something new to the table. From decorating your own doormat to making Halloween wreaths, painting drink tumblers, practising yoga, and learning from a women’s health physio, the sessions offer an exciting blend of creativity and wellness. Whether you’re feeling isolated, into DIY projects, or simply looking for some “me time,” this group promises something special for Canberra mums.

Maria, a term three group member of the Perinatal Wellbeing Centre, says that her experience with the sessions have enriched her life.

“The Southside Women’s Wellbeing Group gave me a sense of hope. It allowed me to connect with other mums for several hours each week,” she says.

“The childcare provided is fantastic, and the volunteers are always so supportive. If your little one prefers to stay with you, they can – which has been really important for me.”

Maria says she was nervous to attend at first, but she ended up loving the relaxed nature of the sessions and says that the space is essential for mums.

“There was one group I couldn’t make on time, but I was still welcomed in with open arms. I joined in the last hour for a chat and a cuppa, and no one judged me. It was exactly what I needed.”

“One of the best parts about each session is that you don’t have to do anything; you simply show up. I don’t have to think about anything.”

Maria says that, as a mum of a busy toddler and juggling the daily responsibilities of caring for a little one, the group provided the perfect outlet for her to unwind and recharge.

“The Southside Women’s Wellbeing Group provides such a warm environment.

The facilitators are welcoming, and it becomes a safe space where mums can come together and say anything—the great and the not-so-great—and we aren’t judged for it,”she says

This is perhaps one of the group’s best aspects. Mums need a non-judgmental village because we are forever unsure and doubt ourselves.”

Others in the group echo her experience, including friends she brought along who had previously struggled with isolation.

“A friend that came along with me went from being unable to leave the house properly for eight months to confidently passing her baby to the childcare volunteers. The change in her confidence was incredible.”

“The Southside Women’s Wellbeing Group is more than just a morning out – it’s a chance to nurture yourself, connect with other mums, and leave feeling refreshed and inspired.”