The Gift of Seva: Why Selfless Service is the Heartbeat of Heston
In many of our traditions, there is a word that carries more weight than "volunteering" or "charity." That word is Seva.
Derived from Sanskrit, Seva is the act of selfless service, performing an action for the benefit of others without any expectation of reward or personal gain. At the Heston Wellness Centre (HWC), Seva isn't just a concept; it is the very foundation of everything we do. From our Directors to our class helpers, we are fueled by the desire to give back to the community that raised us.
What is Seva in the Modern World?
You don't need to be a monk or a saint to practice Seva. In the context of Heston Wellness, Seva looks like:
Helping an elderly neighbour find a stable chair for yoga.
Making a cup of tea for someone who hasn't spoken to anyone else all day.
Sharing your professional skills, whether in accounting, law, or administration, to help our charity grow.
It is about recognising that we are all connected, and that by lifting others, we inevitably lift ourselves.
The Surprising Benefits of Giving
While Seva is performed without expecting a reward, ancient wisdom and modern science both agree: the "helper’s high" is real. When you volunteer your time at HWC, you aren't just helping the community; you are investing in your own well-being.
1. A Sense of Purpose Especially for those who have recently retired or whose children have grown up, Seva provides a renewed sense of "Why." Knowing that 60 seniors are waiting for a session that you helped organise provides a powerful boost to your mental health.
2. Physical Longevity Studies show that volunteers tend to live longer and have lower rates of heart disease. Staying active in the community keeps your mind sharp and your body moving.
3. Combatting Loneliness Loneliness doesn't just affect our students; it can affect anyone. Being part of the HWC volunteer team means joining a family of like-minded people who share your values.
4. Skill Sharing and Growth Whether you are a retired professional or a student looking for experience, Seva allows you to use your talents for a higher purpose. It’s a chance to mentor others or learn a new perspective on Heston life.
Join Our Mission: Your Seva Starts Here
Heston Wellness Centre is growing. With over 300 students and a busy schedule of Tai Chi, Yoga, and social events, we need more hands and hearts to keep the "Heart of Heston" beating.
We aren't looking for "perfect" people; we are looking for kind people. Whether you can spare one hour a month or one day a week, your contribution matters. We particularly need help with:
Welcoming and Registration: Being the friendly face at the door for our £1 sessions.
Refreshments: Helping coordinate the vital social hour after our classes.
Administrative Support: Assisting our Board with the behind-the-scenes work that keeps us running.
A Community Built by Us, For Us
When you offer your Seva to HWC, you are joining a legacy of care. You are standing alongside Sefali, Dean, and Sandeep to ensure that no senior in Heston has to face ageing or illness alone.
Are you ready to discover the joy of selfless service? Call/text Sefali on 07883078625 or speak to one of us after the next class. Your time is the most valuable gift you can give, and the most rewarding one you will ever receive.