HSC’s Movement for Mental Health program nurtures calm, confidence, and self-compassion
Since 2018, the Movement for Mental Health Yoga Program has provided patients at Health Sciences Centre with a safe, trauma-informed space to improve both their physical and mental well-being. But without renewed funding, the program is at risk of ending.
HSC patient Kelly was initially nervous about trying out the Movement for Mental Health program but she was bored on the unit and willing to try something new.
She was at a low point on her mental health journey and, with a physical disability, she was concerned that she wouldn’t be able to participate fully in yoga, which is a key element of the program. But those concerns were quickly allayed after she settled into her seat in the PsycHealth Centre gym.
“Right from the beginning, the breathing exercises and meditation were the most impactful things,” says Kelly, who was admitted to HSC four times over a 16-month period starting in 2022. “I was able to get centred, really get out of my head. It was just such a great feeling.”
Kelly’s great feelings are not unique. Program evaluations of over 1,900 participants between 2019 and 2024 showed that two-thirds reported significant improvements in mood. The results are not surprising as there is a growing and substantial body of evidence supporting the role of yoga and meditation in helping people with major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
For Kelly, the wins have been deeply personal. Years later, she still draws on what she learned there.
“One of the biggest things I’ve learned is self-love and being kind to myself. That was and is huge,” says Kelly. “Movement for Mental Health has given me a sense of autonomy and independence, confidence in myself, and the knowledge that it’s okay to try new things.”
Kelly, who was admitted to HSC four times over a 16-month period starting in 2022: “I was able to get centred, really get out of my head. It was just such a great feeling.”
The Movement for Mental Health program has been funded by the HSC Foundation since 2018. Additional donations are required to sustain and expand the program beyond the walls of HSC to include access through live and recorded online programming for patients throughout Manitoba and for patients who can’t attend in person. Support for more equitable access will help more Manitobans benefit from this important initiative.
Together, we’re helping ensure more Manitobans have access to compassionate mental health care that supports healing of both body and mind. Please consider making a gift to the Movement for Mental Health Yoga Expansion by clicking here, or by calling the HSC Foundation office at 204-515-5612 or 1-800-679-8493 (toll-free).
