To mark Stress Awareness Day on Wednesday, October 5, the management and occupational therapy (OT) team at Thembalami Care Centre and the Max Ordman Deaf Association (MODA) treated their staff to a morning of relaxation and appreciation.
Stress Awareness Day, observed on the first Wednesday in November, aims to help people identify and reduce stress factors in their lives – and Thembalami’s team took that message to heart.
To start the day, the OT team set up a coffee and tea station at the entrance from 6:30am for the night staff. Each disposable cup carried an inspirational quote, and the team had baked homemade bran muffins for everyone to enjoy before heading home.
Later in the morning, staff were invited to unwind further during two guided relaxation sessions in the Snoezelen room, led by Elvis Ademba, a relaxation coach and hypnotherapist.
“I fell asleep listening to his soothing voice,” says Shirley Sibeko, an activity and recreation assistant at Thembalami. “Most of the staff could relax for about an hour. They loved it and said they felt calm, relaxed and content afterwards.”
After the sessions, staff gathered again for coffee, tea and muffins, ending the morning on a peaceful note.
The Snoezelen room is a specially designed, multi-sensory space that uses lights, sounds, textures and scents to promote relaxation, stimulation and therapeutic engagement for people with various cognitive, sensory or emotional needs.
Elvis Ademba’s work focuses on helping people overcome stress, anxiety and self-doubt through guided relaxation and therapeutic hypnosis. “I help individuals reconnect with calm, clarity and confidence,” he explains. “Through a gentle, client-centred approach, I support people in managing stress, releasing anxiety and cultivating inner peace – one breath at a time.”
The morning reminded staff of the importance of slowing down, breathing deeply and taking care of themselves, even while caring for others.
Contacts: ealwali@gmail.com; 081 335 5033
