ALMAZ

ALMAZ – Yoga nas Prisões is the Portuguese project delivering trauma-sensitive Yoga and meditation programmes in Portuguese prisons since 2022 through a protocol with the Directorate-General for Reintegration and Prison Services (DGRSP). Founded by Inez Aires, the initiative supports rehabilitation, emotional regulation, mental health, and social reintegration among incarcerated individuals. The programme has expanded to 16 prisons across Portugal, including Lisbon, Coimbra, Faro, Leiria, Chaves, Montijo, Santa Cruz do Bispo and Ponta Delgada. Media coverage and official recognition from DGRSP highlight improvements in wellbeing, self-awareness, stress management, and prison climate. The project is based on evidence linking Yoga and mindfulness practices to reduced anxiety, impulsivity, aggression, and trauma-related symptoms. ALMAZ aims to contribute to safer prisons, lower recidivism, and more successful reintegration into