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Building Resilience Through Mindfulness: A Wellness Win at Chess

  • Apr 12
  • 2 min read

At the South African Junior Chess Championships (SAJCC), performance isn’t just about tactics and preparation—it’s also about mindset. This year, we had the privilege of hosting a wellness session led by Mrs. Meena Mistry from Shivdev, focused on strengthening the emotional and mental well-being of both our young players and their parents.


Empowering Our Players

When we began the session, our players were visibly drained by the pressure of competition. Confidence levels were low, and morale had dipped. But through the guidance of Mrs. Mistry, the group experienced a powerful shift.

Using simple yet effective mindfulness techniques, she helped the players reconnect with themselves, manage their stress, and boost their focus. By the end of the session, they were visibly transformed—more grounded, more confident, and ready to take on the rest of the tournament.


Wellness Training with parents
Wellness Training with parents

Engaging the Parents

The parents' session was equally impactful. Often overlooked in competitive settings, the emotional toll on parents can be just as heavy. This session provided a much-needed space to explore how to support their children with calm and presence.

Mrs. Mistry facilitated rich discussions on stress management, parenting through pressure, and creating supportive home environments for young competitors. Parents walked away equipped with practical tools to encourage and uplift their children in meaningful ways.


Building the Future Together

In addition to the sessions, we had the honour of connecting with the President of Chess Western Cape, opening the door to potential collaborations aimed at embedding wellness into the heart of chess development in our region.

At African Chess Lounge, our commitment goes beyond competition—we aim to nurture strong, well-rounded individuals. Thanks to Mrs. Meena Mistry and Shivdev, this initiative reminded us of the power of mindfulness in shaping a thriving, supportive chess community.


Looking Ahead

We are excited about integrating more of these sessions into our programs, not just for tournaments, but as part of our broader vision for chess education. Our goal is clear: to create a space where players, parents, and coaches grow together—both in skill and in spirit.

Chess is not just a game. It’s a journey—and wellness is a vital part of that path.


To find out more about our wellness programs or to get involved, reach out to us at



 
 
 

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