Zumba with Christal puts Mental Health in every step!

Story by Angele D’Alessio

Let’s create real change – was this year’s 2024 Bell Let’s TALK campaign theme and this year the Canadian Mental Health Association Champlain East has partnered once again with local Mental Health Ambassador Christal Bowen to share messaging around the importance of not only our physical health but prioritizing our mental health. Each member received a Bell Let’s TALK “CHANGE” postcard, CMHA Business card and Buttons for each patron to wear with inspiring messages of hope.

A member of the Zumba family (Tracy) took the stage during the opening remarks to share that she too once struggled with Depression and that speaking up is the most important thing you can do for yourself. Reach out and get the help that you need; she thanked her workplace who created “It’s Okay to not be Okay” stickers and distributed one to each of the participants at tonight’s class. For the past 17 years Christal has been helping people de-stress with her electric Zumba classes. Everyone is welcome and there are no wrong moves, the only rule in Christal’s class is to have fun and that is exactly what happened last night.

The energy was high with over 80 people in attendance- all in support of a great cause #BellLetsTalk a campaign that has been initiating the largest National conversation on Mental Health Since 2010. As the class came to a close the Team of volunteers at CMHA and the Z with C Crew shared how each person here tonight could  inspire change:

Choose a mental health organization to learn about

Help a friend in need

Ask about mental health supports

Nurture your own well-being

Get involved in your community

Engage in a meaningful conversation For immediate support you can text the Crisis Line at 686868 or call/text 9-8-8 (Suicide Crisis Helpline) toll-free, anytime. For more information on Bell Let’s TALK visit https://letstalk.bell.ca/

Congratulations to CMHA Champlain East for receiving a $20,000.00 cheque from Bell Lets Talk to help encourage the conversation about Mental Health.

A few words from Christal Bowen about the benefits of Zumba on Mental Health. Above photo shows Christal (right) with her partner Val Bowen who joined her on the stage quite a few times throughout the class.

“The sense of community in a Zumba class is unparalleled. There’s something incredibly empowering about sweating it out together, knowing that we’re all on this journey to better mental and physical health.

Moreover, Zumba is a celebration of diversity and inclusivity. Regardless of age, fitness level, or background, everyone is welcome on the dance floor. In a world often divided by differences, Zumba unites us in a common goal: to feel good from the inside out.

But perhaps the most significant impact of Zumba on mental health is the sense of empowerment it instills. As we master new routines and push our limits, we gain confidence in our abilities both on and off the dance floor.

In conclusion, Zumba is not just a workout; it’s an energetic approach to mental wellness. Through movement, music, and community, it nourishes our mind, body, and souls in ways that traditional forms of exercise cannot. It’s a reminder that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. So, if you’re looking for a way to boost your mood, relieve stress, and unleash your inner joy, I highly recommend giving Zumba a try. Your mental health will thank you for it”.

Note from the Seeker Team: Visit the facebook Group Zumba Cornwall-Zumba with Christal and attend one of her classes. You will be happy to go I’m sure, in fact you may just see Seeker Chick Mai-Liis there one day!