Archana Cini, Lookout Newspaper

  • Defence Team members at CFB Esquimalt gathered at Work Point’s Nixon Gym on Jan 21 for a free guided yoga practice in recognition of Bell Let’s Talk Day 2026.
  • Hosted by MARPAC’s Mental and Social Wellness Working Group, the session encouraged DND staff to ‘take a moment for mental health’.
  • PSP instructor Allison Jones shared how yoga supports resilience, stress management, and community, while mental health resources were available on site to reinforce ongoing support.

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On Jan 21, Defence Team members at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt were invited to pause, breathe, and reconnect during a free guided yoga practice held in recognition of Bell’s annual Let’s Talk Day. Hosted by MARPAC’s Mental and Social Wellness Working Group, the midday session took place at Work Point’s Nixon Gym and welcomed both civilian and uniformed Department of National Defence (DND) staff to ‘take a moment for mental health,’ the theme of Bell Let’s Talk Day 2026.

Participants stepped away from their workday and into a calm, supportive space focused on movement and mindfulness. With yoga equipment provided on site, attendees enjoyed a welcoming guided practice led by Personnel Support Program’s (PSP) Allison Jones. The practice emphasized gentle stretches, mind-body-muscle connection, and breathwork designed to help support overall wellbeing.

“Mindfulness and yoga can support the mental health and wellness of Defence team members by helping them stay present and focused, even in busy or demanding environments. Through movement and breath, yoga encourages mindfulness — paying attention to purpose in the moment,” said Jones. “It also helps build a sense of community and gives people tools to reset, manage stress, and feel more grounded, both individually and as a team.”

Bell Let’s Talk Day is dedicated to opening conversations about mental health and reducing stigma across Canada. This year’s message — that even a small pause can make a meaningful difference — resonated strongly throughout the practice. The session served as a reminder that caring for mental health does not always require large commitments; it can also begin with a single moment of selfreflection or a check-in with a trusted individual.

When asked what Defence Team members can do to support mental well-being daily, Jones said: “One small practice to carry forward after Bell Let’s Talk Day can be to connect with breath. Breathing is incredibly powerful. Slow, deep, and controlled breathing acts as a reset button for our nervous system. Even taking a few intentional breaths can help calm the body, reduce stress, and restore a sense of control.”

Outside the gym space, attendees were also able to access mental health resources and other materials, reinforcing the broader goal of awareness, education, and support for mental health within the Defence community. On Bell Let’s Talk Day and every day henceforth, check in with yourself and those you love. Talking changes lives.

  • 24/7 Member Assistance Program: 1-800-268-7708 24/7
  • Family Information Line: 1-800-866-4546
  • Suicide Crisis Help: 988