Roseau, Dominica, September 11, 2020—The CARICOM Conference Heads of Government in 2007 embarked on an initiative geared towards increasing awareness and promoting measures among CARICOM Member States and their populations, to address the epidemic of Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs), which continue to severely impact the health, economy and development of the region and declared the second Saturday of September ‘Caribbean Wellness Day’ (CWD).
Over the last twelve (12) years, the overall theme for CWD was ‘Love that Body’ with a focus on preventing and controlling NCDs throughout the life course. For the next five years (2020-2024), the region will continue with the life course approach but will take into consideration a “whole of society” commitment.
The new overall theme for the next five years will be ‘Power through Collective Action’, with the sub-theme ‘Stronger Together 2020’ for this year’s celebration.
The objectives for CWD 2020 are to:
- Raise awareness about mental illness and mental health;
- Address stigma and discrimination (especially towards frontline essential and/or health care workers); and
- Promote coping strategies aimed at reducing stress, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic.
In an effort to promote both mental and physical wellness, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and New Health Investment, through the Health Promotion Unit, and in conjunction with several stakeholders including the Dominica Wellness Association, Jungle Bay Resort and Spa and Alliance Francaise de la Dominique, will host its flagship event, ‘Yoga for You!’, on Saturday September 12 from 3 to 4pm. The yoga session will be facilitated by members of the Dominica Wellness Association and will be streamed live from Jungle Bay Resort and Spa. Anyone wishing to participate may do so via Zoom, using the meeting ID 827 5821 4639 and password 581588.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and New Health Investment would like to thank all partners for their collaborative effort once again this year, especially those who will be hosting events throughout the month. The Ministry continues to encourage others to become partners.
As we all work toward coping with the uncertainties of the COVID-19 climate, it is vital that we all come together to stimulate healthy minds and bodies, and embrace this year’s theme ‘Stronger Together 2020’.
Below is a Wellness Walk in Dominica.
Video compliments: Ibrahim Brohim
