In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, actress and activist Jameela Jamil hosted an empowering wellness event at The Racket in New York City.
Many know Jameela from Marvel’s She Hulk or NBC’s comedy series The Good Place, but she is also a passionate mental health advocate. In collaboration with I Weigh and Well+Good, she brought together an enthusiastic crowd for MOVE FOR YOUR MIND, an event designed to empower women through movement and awareness.
The evening began with an intimate fireside chat featuring Jameela Jamil and Evy Poumpouras, a highly decorated former Secret Service agent. Evy, who often faces underestimation due to her petite frame, shared a plethora of educational tips on personal safety and self-defense. The crowd nodded and clapped in agreement as she shared her insights. Evy also shared a never-before-told story of how she was drugged while enjoying a night out but was fortunately saved by a gym acquaintance who intervened before anything could happen to her.
Jameela was equally brave in sharing her own powerful stories. From her experience of being groped on her way to school at age 12 to overcoming anorexia, Jamil’s narrative was one of resilience and empowerment. Her ability to blend humor and sarcasm with serious topics kept the audience engaged and attentive, ensuring that her message resonated deeply.
Both Jameela and Evy emphasized practical safety tips and the importance of being prepared. Whether it was choosing the right clothing for safety or being cautious about rideshare services, the advice offered was both pragmatic and empowering.
Following the fireside chat, attendees were treated to a self-defense demonstration. Evy, with the assistance of Jameela, shared her top essential techniques, including:
– Using pepper spray and keys as defensive tools
– Targeting the shin, crotch, throat, and nose for maximum impact
– Effective eye gouging and biting techniques
These skills were designed to empower women, providing them with practical ways to defend themselves if necessary.
After the demonstration, the event transitioned into a community walk of approximately three miles.
This group walk fostered a sense of community and solidarity, with participants moving together along 10th Ave in Manhattan, symbolizing the strength and unity of women when they stand together.