Mental Health Part II – Empowering Movement for Mental Health (Mini-Seminar)

Date: August 17th 2024

Category:Health & Wellness → Mental Health Education

Participants:

• Moderator: Dr. Carolyn Rowley, Executive Director & Founder, Cayenne Wellness Center
  
• Guest Speaker: E.A. (Aqua) Hayford, MSW, Counselor at Andrews Counseling & Family Resource Center, Sickle Cell Warrior, Advocate, and Business Owner

Description:

This second installment of Cayenne Wellness Center’s miniSeminar Mental Health Series explores the powerful connection between movement and mental health for individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Moderated by Dr. Carolyn Rowley, Executive Director and Founder of Cayenne Wellness Center, the session features guest speaker E.A. (Aqua) Hayford, MSW — counselor, SCD warrior, advocate, and business owner — who shares her inspiring journey of resilience through grief, depression, and the healing power of movement.

Drawing from her lived experience and professional expertise, Hayford demonstrates how small, consistent actions such as walking, stretching, and dancing can transform both physical and emotional well-being. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, caregiver support, and therapy in navigating the challenges of chronic illness.

Participants will gain insight into the role of hydration, positive affirmations, and mental preparation in managing health, as well as practical tools for sustaining motivation during difficult times. Through powerful storytelling and expert guidance, this session highlights the transformative impact of movement—showing how it can foster healing, hope, and holistic wellness for individuals living with SCD and their support networks.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the mind–body connection: Understand how movement—whether walking, stretching, or dancing—can reduce depression, ease pain, and improve mental health in people with Sickle Cell Disease.
  
• Learn coping strategies: Explore how reframing thoughts, building positive routines, and maintaining mobility can counteract grief, depression, and fatigue.
  
• Identify personal triggers and limits: Discover how to find your “sweet spot” of movement to stay active without exacerbating SCD-related pain or crises.
  
• Value caregiver and professional support: Acknowledge the emotional impact on caregivers and learn the importance of therapy, counseling, and advocacy in sustaining wellness.
  
• Develop a personalized wellness toolbox: Gain practical tools such as daily maintenance plans, affirmations, and support networks to strengthen resilience and self-care.