Mental Health Champions: Why & How Dr Cindi Saj Is Helping To Champion Mental Wellness
Emotional Check-ins: I take the time to check in on my emotions regularly, and one of the ways I do this is by journaling, talking to friends and family but also having a personal counsellor for myself.
As a part of our series about Mental Health Champions helping to promote mental wellness, I had the pleasure to interview Dr. Cindi Saj.
Dr. Cindi is dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey to wellness. With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, she is an accomplished author, researcher, therapist, university instructor, and yoga teacher.
Her current research focuses on the therapeutic benefits and outcomes of integrating positive psychology, bilateral stimulation, clinical hypnotherapy, and yoga. In her private practice and while educating future counselors, Dr. Cindi is passionate about fostering self-awareness, mindfulness, and somatic learning in clinical settings. She is also committed to preparing students and counselor educators to enhance the counseling profession. Ultimately, she strives to empower her clients and students to lead purposeful and meaningful lives.
Thank you so much for doing this with us! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit. Can you tell us a bit about how you grew up?
My mother was an immigrant who dedicated herself to creating a better life for my two sisters and me. As a single mother of three, she persevered through university and made it work. She saved diligently to ensure I could attend university, providing me with opportunities she never had in her own youth. She is my mentor, my motivator, and my greatest supporter. I am incredibly grateful that she is still with us today, inspiring me to help others realize their worth and strive for a better life — an invaluable lesson she has always taught me.
You are currently leading an initiative that is helping to promote mental wellness. Can you tell us a bit more specifically about what you are trying to address?
I’m excited to share some groundbreaking research that I believe has the potential to make a significant impact in the field of mental wellness. With over 14 years of experience as a therapist and more than 10 years of dedicated practice in yoga, I have successfully combined these two areas of expertise that are deeply meaningful to me. This research not only facilitates healing for my clients but also reflects my own personal journey toward wellness. I am passionate about disseminating this knowledge to those seeking emotional, psychological, and physical well-being.
The study I’m thrilled to present is known as the IDEA framework. This framework investigates the evidence-based research surrounding the effects of various therapeutic modalities — including positive psychology, bilateral stimulation, clinical hypnotherapy, and yoga — on self-esteem and feelings of safety and stability.
After publishing the IDEA framework, I received ethical approval from the research ethics board at Yorkville University and have conducted research to explore its foundational hypotheses. We are currently in the process of analyzing the data, and the initial findings are looking promising! I am eager to share how this integrative therapeutic approach can empower individuals to heal from within, leveraging the tools they already possess.
Can you tell us the backstory about what inspired you to originally feel passionate about this cause?
The backstory of my passion for promoting mental wellness is deeply rooted in my upbringing and the values instilled in me by my mother. Growing up, I was fortunate to have a strong and nurturing role model who taught me from an early age about the inherent worth of every individual. As one of three girls, our household was filled with both love and challenges, particularly as my middle sister was born with spina bifida.
Watching my mother navigate the complexities of raising three daughters, each with our unique needs, instilled in me a profound understanding of equity and empowerment. She championed the idea that while we each faced different obstacles, it was our responsibility to support one another and uplift those around us. Her teachings made me acutely aware that not everyone has the same opportunities or resources and that many individuals struggle with feelings of unworthiness or isolation.
This realization ignited a passion in me to advocate for others and to share the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired throughout my journey. My purpose has become clear: to empower individuals by helping them recognize their own worth and by providing effective strategies for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I believe that everyone deserves access to the tools and insights that can help them lead fulfilling lives, and it is my mission to make that knowledge accessible to as many people as possible. This commitment is not only a tribute to my mother’s teachings but also a way to honor the diverse experiences of others who may not have had the same support that I was fortunate enough to receive.
Many of us have ideas, dreams, and passions, but never manifest them. They don’t get up and just do it. But you did. Was there an “Aha Moment” that made you decide that you were actually going to step up and do it? What was that final trigger?
I believe my life has been shaped by a series of small successes that motivated me to persist. Each time I faced a setback, I viewed it as an opportunity for growth and learning. I discovered that not everything unfolds as we expect, but it’s important to keep pushing forward because things do improve over time. My “aha moment” resonates with the quote, “She believed she could, so she did.” It underscores the power of believing in oneself and the strength that comes from positive thinking and self-confidence.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company or organization?
Every time I work with a client or student, I am reminded of the profound purpose behind my work. Witnessing individuals embrace their own healing and wellness is incredibly rewarding. When I hear clients and students affirm their self-worth — whether in a classroom, during a yoga session, or after a counseling appointment — it is a powerful experience. It’s uplifting to see how they begin to recognize their value, and this empowerment often radiates to their loved ones, friends, and family. Little by little, it feels as though we are collectively healing and strengthening our communities.
I am continually inspired by the countless healing stories that emerge from this work. It brings me great joy to hear about people releasing what no longer serves them — overcoming depression, processing trauma, and cultivating self-belief, all while finding the capacity to smile again. These success stories not only motivate me to persevere in this journey but also reinforce the idea that transformation is possible for everyone.
None of us can be successful without some help along the way. Did you have mentors or cheerleaders who helped you to succeed? Can you tell us a story about their influence?
None of us achieve success without the support of others along the journey. In my case, my mother has always been my unwavering support, but I’ve also been fortunate to have a network of strong mentors and cheerleaders who have played pivotal roles in my development.
Throughout my education and career, I’ve encountered numerous remarkable mentors who have guided me and encouraged my growth. Interestingly, there were times when even their skepticism became a catalyst for my success. For example, during one of my early academic experiences, a professor questioned my capabilities in a way that initially felt discouraging. However, instead of allowing that doubt to deter me, I used it as motivation to prove myself and work even harder. Their lack of faith in my abilities fueled my determination to rise above expectations and ultimately succeed.
These experiences taught me the importance of resilience and the value of constructive criticism. The profound influence of my mother, coupled with the guidance of my mentors, has shaped not only my career but also my approach to helping others. I strive to create an environment where people feel both supported and challenged, promoting their growth just as I was nurtured along my own path.
According to Mental Health America’s report, over 44 million Americans have a mental health condition. Yet there’s still a stigma about mental illness. Can you share a few reasons you think this is so?
There continues to be a stigma surrounding mental illness, and I believe there are several reasons for this.
First, mental health issues can lead to feelings of isolation. Many individuals experiencing these challenges often feel alone and believe there is something fundamentally wrong with them. This sense of disconnection can further alienate them from others, creating a cycle of loneliness.
Additionally, outdated beliefs contribute to this stigma. Some people still view mental illness as a sign of personal deficiency or as something individuals have caused themselves. This perspective overlooks the complex interplay of various factors that contribute to mental health issues. For too long, individuals have felt that they must navigate their struggles in silence, believing that they are alone in their experiences.
One of the most pervasive myths about mental health is the idea that you have to face your struggles by yourself. In reality, nearly everyone I encounter has faced some form of trauma or adversity. Acknowledging this shared humanity and understanding that mental health challenges are common can be pivotal in breaking down the stigma. By engaging in open conversations and fostering a supportive environment, we can help shift perceptions and encourage individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.
In your experience, what should a) individuals b) society, and c) the government do to better support people suffering from mental illness?
- Individuals: The most important thing individuals can do is to listen with empathy and kindness. It’s crucial to approach others without judgment, treating them the way you would want to be treated in a similar situation. We never know the battles that someone is fighting behind closed doors- whether it is domestic violence, cancer, depression, trauma, anxiety, etc- we are best to be kind to others at all times.
- Society: Society has a huge role in helping reduce stigma and help educate people about mental health and illness. Fostering a culture of easy access to information, as well as tolerance for diversity, acceptance and openness can significantly reduce stigma and dispel misconceptions surrounding these issues.
- Government: Governments must actively invest in mental health resources, expanding access to care, and implementing policies that ensure equitable treatment for those affected by mental health challenges. Governments must also work to eliminate barriers and challenge misconceptions regarding mental illness.
What are your 5 strategies you use to promote your own well-being and mental wellness?
1. Rest: I prioritize rest as a non-negotiable component of my well-being. I’ve come to understand that rest is not merely a luxury but a vital part of being productive and healthy. There was a time when I pushed myself too hard, neglecting my need to recharge, which ultimately led to physical, emotional and mental illness. This experience taught me that if I don’t allocate time for my wellness, I will inevitably have to take time for my illness. Now, I embrace rest as a necessary step in my routine, recognizing its healing power.
2. Movement: I believe that movement is vital for our physical and mental health, and I often refer to it as “medicine.” Engaging in activities like walking, cycling and practicing yoga helps release energy and alleviate any stress I am holding on to from my day.
3. Gratitude: Each day, I make it a practice to express gratitude for the things I have in my life. This habit has transformed my perspective and helped me focus on the positives, even during challenging times. I think of 3 things I am grateful in the morning before I get out of bed, and three things at night when I close my eyes for sleep.
4. Emotional Check-ins: I take the time to check in on my emotions regularly, and one of the ways I do this is by journaling, talking to friends and family but also having a personal counsellor for myself.
5. Nature: Spending time in nature is one of my favorite strategies for health and wellness. I love the sun, fresh air, being around water and the forest. Nature takes what I don’t want to hold anymore and gives me back my focus and clarity, making it a truly restorative experience.
What are your favorite books, podcasts, or resources that inspire you to be a mental health champion?
I love exploring topics and am always learning. I am currently reading a book by Mel Robbins, Dr. Joe Dispenza and Sonia Choquette. I am also really enjoying listening to a few audio books/
If you could tell other people one thing about why they should consider making a positive impact on our environment or society, like you, what would you tell them?
If I could give one piece of advice to encourage others to help improve our environment or society, it would be this: Be kind and smile at people you meet. Simple acts of kindness can make a big difference, brightening someone’s day and helping us feel more connected as a community. When we show kindness, we not only lift others up but also create a more caring society. By spreading positivity in these small ways, we can inspire change and make the world a better place for everyone.
How can our readers follow you online?
Instagram cindi.saj
facebook cindi.saj
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success on your great work!
