The Balder Neighbour of the Quarter builds a growing community through yoga
 

Gabija from Skibbroen has been named Balder Neighbour of the Quarter for the first quarter of 2026. She receives the award for her ability to bring together her yoga-loving neighbours.

Four years ago, Gabija, originally from Lithuania, moved to Skibbroen with her partner. Until recently, contact with her neighbours was limited to greetings in the stairwell and occasional small talk – including during winter bathing. But that changed after she launched a series of cosy yoga sessions in the property’s shared space:

“After qualifying as a yoga instructor, I got the idea to start a yoga group in the building. Both to bring neighbours together and to share everything meaningful about yoga. At the same time, it was a way to get to know my neighbours better and create space for new friendships,” says Gabija, founder of Yoga with Gabija.

She adds that, with support from the ‘Balder Heart Funds’ initiative, she was able to receive financial support for her idea. This has made it possible, among other things, to enjoy a bite to eat after the yoga sessions.

“It was perfect that I could receive support from the Balder Heart funding. It makes it possible for us to gather over a light dinner after yoga, and in that way get to know each other even better.”

A sense of belonging
So far, Gabija has held two out of three planned yoga sessions. There has been a great turnout with a good mix of residents.

The newly named Balder Neighbour of the Quarter shares that she has made new friends in the building:

“I definitely feel that we’ve become neighbour-friends and built connections that wouldn’t have happened without yoga. People have started connecting over other things as well, such as their pets. It means a lot – especially when you’ve moved to a new country and want to feel at home.”

Balder warmly congratulates Gabija on this well-deserved award.