We can lift weights, do calisthenics, and engage in various workouts to build muscle. Although the brain isn't a muscle, exercise can support our mental health. During October, I leaned into physical fitness routines to manage stress and reduce anxiety.
While this article shares a personal reflection on the benefits of exercise, my experiences align with a recent publication in the Journal of Black Psychology. In Jemiluyi and Afolabi’s (2026) article, they share research that illustrates how African men engage in self-care practices to cope with migration and masculinity in the US. To strengthen their identities in a new environment, African men exercised, prioritized sleep, ate healthy, and shopped. In the transition to St. Maarten, I have also found solace in similar activities.
Various African diasporic communities observed World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2026. The year’s date fell on a Saturday. Instead of attending an event to commemorate the occasion, I ran thirteen mindful miles through Caribbean communities.
The solo half-marathon fortified a mind weakened by the recent move abroad.
In September, I relocated with my wife and three children from the US to the Caribbean island of St. Maarten. I accepted a position as an associate professor in the Academy of Teaching and Learning at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. For this opportunity, we packed our prized possessions into fourteen checked bags and a couple of carry-ons.
Unlike previous moves beyond US borders, we didn’t have family waiting for us when we arrived. We relied on a gracious relocation package from the university to help us get settled. It provided a moving-expense stipend and temporary housing.
For the most part, things went well during our travels and initial weeks on the island.
The housing exceeded our expectations. We stayed in an upscale condominium with access to an on-site grocery store, restaurants, and a marina.But despite the comfort and beauty of our surroundings, I still found myself with mounds of debilitating concerns.
My three teenagers and wife left their friends, jobs, and favorite activities in the US. On more than one occasion, my daughter expressed rage about missing home. I carried the weight of guilt on my shoulders and in my head.To settle in, we needed a permanent place to live, reliable transportation, and essential household items.
I intensified fitness activities to release the transitional stress. In October, I ran over 200 miles, lifted weights, practiced the African-Brazilian martial art of capoeira, swam, and did yoga. The combination of exercise and reflective writing strengthened my body and mind.
Prayer and meditation calmed my restless spirit.
My physical, mental, and spiritual practices helped me appreciate my health and shift my perspective from loss to victory.
Working and living on an island is beautiful. My days begin and end with warm weather. As I teach and advise future doctors, I influence global healthcare systems.Although I’ve experienced some challenges in these first six weeks, I am grateful for where I am today. We’ve rented a home, purchased a used car, and regained the necessities we left in the States.
World Mental Health Day came and went in October. However, we can continue to protect our mental health by prioritizing healthy lifestyle choices.
My workouts are extreme but find something that works for you. Start with modifying your diet or reading one page a day. If you need assistance with your mental health, explore these resources available from the Association of Black Psychologists.
