A participant getting free screening and medical advice. — Photos: LOW LAY PHON/The Star
Volunteers counter rising mental health woes by offering practices to improve body and mind
A HEALTHY mind in a healthy body is what we all seek but how can we achieve it?
During a “Jom Feel Fit & Fab” wellness workshop, facilitators guided participants through exercises on managing stress and improving mental health.
It featured practical activities such as breathing exercises, laughter therapy and introspection techniques.
Family physician and hypnotherapist Dr Sarasijam Nair shared insights into how the mind works and its influence on physical well-being.
She also introduced participants to the “sustainme” concept, which has all the crucial elements in maintaining a healthy mind and body: sunshine, water, sleep, trust in the universe, avoidance of stressors, breathing, nutrition, moderation and exercise.
“These are essential for everyday mental and physical health,” she said.
Dhillip sharing mental health tips during the workshop.
Dr Sarasijam demonstrated a simple exercise where one inhales and exhales over a slow count of three, and then holds one’s breath for a further count of three before repeating this process four times.
Another facilitator was naturopath, psychotherapist, pain management therapist and yoga teacher Dhillip Kumar who shared tips on achieving balance in life.
In addition to mental wellness, physical health was also emphasised as weight and height measurements were taken while participants had their blood pressure and sugar level checked.
Eight volunteer doctors were on hand at the Brickfields Asia College in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, to provide consultations, supported by the Malaysia Diabetes Centre.
“Around 65 participants underwent the screening and nearly 50% were unaware they had diabetes,” said programme director Amsa Naidu.
There were also six booths offering wellness education on Dorn therapy, massages, ayurvedic practices, herbal products, physiotherapy and aromatherapy.
“This event is a response to the alarming rise in mental health issues and suicide attempts in Malaysia, often triggered by stressors like exam results, family issues, and online harassment.
“We focused on the B40 community, particularly women, because many of them do not prioritise health screenings,” said Amsa.
The event was organised by Malaysian Council of Peace for Unity, Education and Eco Foundation alongside Guru Dharma Society and Universal Peace Sanctuary Malaysia.
