The Mind and Matter Self-Care Event, presented by Refuel Life, offers Hampton Roads residents tools and resources to support holistic wellness. Through workshops, TED-style talks, life coaching, financial advising, meditation, sound healing, yoga, and fitness classes, participants will explore practical strategies for self-care. Rooted in the 8 Pillars of Self-Care ~ physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, social, environmental, financial, and intellectual ~ this event promotes balance and resilience. By addressing the whole person, The Mind and Matter Self-Care Event supports improved well-being and plays a powerful role in reducing stress, anxiety, and suicide rates.
FEELING OVERWHELMED?
If you are feeling overwhelmed and need a calming space, please visit Quiet Corner, Calming Cove, The Meditation Room, or one of the Safe Spaces marked in teal on the event map. These spaces are designed to be quiet and soothing to give attendees respite from stimuli when or if needed.
IN CRISIS?
If you are experiencing an emotional crisis, please seek assistance from one of the on-site mental health professionals or click below to call for assistance.
Suicide Prevention Hotline
If you are experiencing a medical emergency or are feeling that you may harm yourself or others please click below to call medical emergency services.
Emergency Medical Services
EVENT SCHEDULE
1015AM
Friendship Field
Opening Remarks
Danielle Murphy
Danielle “Dani” Murphy is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor based in Chesapeake, VA. She specializes in trauma-focused care for children, couples, and families, and is trained in EMDR, integrating Solution-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Dani holds a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University and is completing her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision at Capella University. At Refuel Life Trauma Center, her holistic, client-centered approach supports healing from trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, Autism, personality disorders, life transitions, and more. She provides LGBTQIA++ affirming care and is passionate about helping clients find resilience, connection, and hope.
1030AM
Friendship Field
Morning Yoga By Mindful Moments Wellness
Carly Bennyhoff
UNDERSTANDING & IMPLEMENNTING THE 8 PILLARS OF SELF CARE
Join us as we dive into the heart of The Mind & Matter Self-Care Event: The 8 Pillars of Self-Care with a series of engaging, TED Talk-style sessions. These bite-sized presentations are designed to give you a clear, practical understanding of each of the eight pillars of self-care and how to make them a natural part of your everyday life. Led by passionate community experts, each talk offers insights, real-life tips, and encouragement to help you care for your body, mind, and spirit in simple but meaningful ways. Together, these sessions highlight the power of a holistic approach to suicide prevention—showing how nurturing every area of well-being can build resilience, foster connection, and create lasting change. Whether you're looking for inspiration, guidance, or just a fresh perspective, these talks are here to support your journey toward a more balanced, empowered, and mentally healthy life.
PRESENTATIONS
11AM
Main Stage
Intellectual Self-Care
Melissa Christakos
Melissa Christakos is a dedicated librarian and community advocate serving as the Strategic Initiative Librarian at the Chesapeake Public Library in Virginia. In this role, she spearheads innovative programs that bridge library services with community health and wellness initiatives. Her work emphasizes reducing barriers to learning, particularly those related to food insecurity and access to healthy living resources. letsmovelibraries.org A notable example of her efforts includes the collaboration with Healthy Chesapeake to support the Garden2Table program at the Dr. Clarence V. Cuffee Outreach & Innovation Library. This initiative, funded by AARP, features wheelchair-accessible garden beds and tools designed for seniors, promoting hands-on learning and community engagement. Additionally, Melissa facilitated a Golden Age Party to celebrate the garden's opening, offering flu shots, A1C testing, educational sessions on fall plantings, chair yoga, and Senior IDs. letsmovelibraries.org Melissa's commitment to community-driven library services has earned recognition, including an Honorable Mention in the 2023 I Partner With My Public Library Award for her role in fostering impactful partnerships.
1120AM
Main Stage
Professional Self-Care
Nicholas Lassiter
Nicholas R. Lassiter brings over two decades of leadership and service to his current role as an HRIS Functional Consultant at CACI. A Norfolk, VA native and proud Old Dominion University graduate, Nicholas served 22 years in the U.S. Navy (2001–2023), rising through the ranks with key leadership roles from the flight line to the Pentagon. His Navy career included posts as Air Transportation Officer aboard the USS Nimitz, Commanding Officer of NOSC White River Junction, and Division Director at NAVMAC. He also played a critical role in manpower and training strategy at the Pentagon. Over the years, Nicholas was recognized with multiple commendations, including three Meritorious Service Medals and four Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medals. Today, he continues his mission of service by supporting the Navy in a civilian capacity, bringing deep operational insight and a steadfast commitment to excellence. For Nicholas, dedication and service aren’t just values—they’re a way of life.
1140AM
Main Stage
Financial Self-Care
Trudy-Anne Dawson
Trudy-Ann Dawkins is a licensed financial professional dedicated to helping individuals and families build strong financial foundations. A former Child Protective Specialist in New York City, she saw the urgent need for financial education in her community. After becoming a mother, she turned to World Financial Group (WFG) for guidance—and found a mission. Now licensed in five states, Trudy-Ann uses WFG’s powerful platform to help others save, invest, protect their income, and even build their own businesses. Join her workshop, "Building, Saving, and Investing," to learn how to take control of your money and your future.
1230PM
Main Stage
Physical Self-Care (Fitness)
Carly Bennyhoff
Mindful Moments Wellness, LLC is owned & operated by Carly Joelle Bennyhoff, Registered Yoga Teacher and Licensed Massage Therapist. Carly first found yoga in the early 2000s and practiced sporadically for years. During times of distress, she found that yoga soothed her more sustainably than other methods of coping with life. Little-by-little, yoga exercises and philosophy started to frame Carly’s world into a more balanced, healthy, and happy place. Because of how radically a steady yoga practice has changed her own life, Carly loves to share the benefits of yogasana and the 8 Limbed Path of Yoga with her community. Her classes are taught in an inclusive and functional way, so rather than focusing on alignment or aesthetic cues, Carly encourages students to customize the practice to their unique body & learn to focus on the sensations they feel in each pose. She hopes that her slower-paced classes offer you the tools to connect with your inner refuge of steadiness, resilience and peace.
1250PM
Main Stage
Nutritional (Physical) Self-Care
Bertrille Lomax
Bertrille Lomax serves as the Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Agent for Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) in the City of Portsmouth. In this role, organizes and leads a variety of workshops focused on Financial Literacy, Chronic Disease Prevention and Food and Nutrition education. These sessions cover topics such as money management, diabetes education, healthy eating habits, and physical fitness. Additionally, Bertrille facilitates engaging nutrition and financial management workshops aimed at young people and families, helping them develop essential consumer skills, make informed financial choices, and adopt healthier lifestyles. She holds a master’s degree in human resources management from Central Michigan University and a bachelor’s degree in business administration management from Norfolk State University. She has been married to her husband William for thirty years, and they have three children and two grandchildren.
120PM
Main Field
Environmental Self-Care
Samantha Jones
Samatha Jones was born in Brooklyn, NY. As a teen she moved to South Carolina where she attended Florence Darlington Technical College. Samatha is the mother of 2 beautiful daughters and 2 grandchildren. Over the years she has explored a variety of careers, including roles as a certified nursing assistant, phlebotomist, real estate professional, and childcare provider. Her passion for creativity and service ultimately led her to entrepreneurship. She is the proud owner of SKJ Art and Event Designs, an event planning and design business where she brings visions to life with style and precision. Samatha formerly served as the Operations Manager at We Rock The Spectrum Chesapeake, where she combined her love for children and party planning to create joyful, inclusive experiences for families.
145PM
Main Stage
Spiritual Self-Care
REVEREND LINDA D.T. CLARK, LCSW
The Rev. Dr. Linda Delores Townes Clark, a Norfolk, VA native, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience in mental health, including roles in therapy, supervision, and management. She holds degrees in Sociology (B.A., Virginia Union University), Social Work (M.S.W., Norfolk State University), and Divinity (M.Div. and D.Min., Virginia Union University).Dr. Clark served as the first female Pastor of Union United Church of Christ in Norfolk, leading the church for over 13 years and launching the city’s first Children’s Defense Fund Freedom School in 2010. With the theme: “I can make a difference,” this six weeks, free summer program served 50 children (called “scholars”) and their families each summer in the Huntersville community and beyond. She has worked with Tidewater Pastoral Counseling Services since 2014 and served as Interim Pastor of St. Mark UCC from 2020 to 2022.
220PM
Main Stage
Spoken Word Performance
And Keynote Speaker Introductions
Tutankhamun Geth
Tutankhamun Geth aka Jenari Asha is a spoken word artist, motivational speaker, and MC with over 20 years of experience captivating audiences across the country. Known for his powerful blend of authenticity and artistry, Jenari inspires connection, healing, and personal growth through his performances. A former student editor and founder of Uberman Productions, his creative journey spans poetry, comedy, and community events. He brings a dynamic presence to the stage, using words to uplift, empower, and transform.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
230PM
Main Stage
Emotional & Psychological Self-Care
Abigail Morgan, LCSW
Abigail Morgan is a seasoned clinical social worker, educator, and entrepreneur with nearly 20 years of experience in trauma-informed care. She is the Owner and Clinical Director of Sea Level Counseling and Wellness in Norfolk, VA, where she leads a team of therapists providing EMDR-based outpatient psychotherapy to individuals across Hampton Roads. A committed mentor, Abigail supervises Master’s-level social workers through a structured residency program, fostering the growth of ethical, competent clinicians.Beyond clinical care, Abigail is the founder of the Sea Level Wellness Collective, a business incubator that supports wellness professionals in launching and growing private practices. She also partners with the Headstrong Project to provide trauma therapy for veterans and service members. With a deep commitment to mental health innovation, mentorship, and access to care, Abigail continues to shape the future of the profession through leadership, collaboration, and community engagement.
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
3PM
Main Stage
Social Self-Care
The Laugh Therapist
Vernard "The Laugh Therapist" Hines is a military veteran using clean comedy and motivational speaking to inspire healing and resilience. With high-energy performances rooted in real-life experiences, he connects with audiences at Veteran Organizations, Military Bases, Comedy Clubs, and Religious Groups.Through his unique “laugh therapy,” Vernard offers more than entertainment—he creates a space for joy, reflection, and renewed purpose. His motto: Laughter is a Healthy Dose of Therapy.
INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCES
Pop-Up Fitness
With Becky Stephens
Becky Stephens is the founder and owner of Bulletproof Wellness Studio, a private fitness space based in Norfolk, Virginia, dedicated to helping adults 35 and older build strength, move with confidence, and train with purpose. With over 22 years of experience as a personal trainer and nutrition coach, Becky brings both expertise and empathy to her work, creating a space where individuals can pursue sustainable, empowering wellness goals at every stage of life Her philosophy blends evidence-based strength training with functional movement and a deep understanding of each client’s unique needs. Becky’s approach is rooted in the belief that wellness is not about extremes—it's about consistency, mobility, and mental resilience. At Bulletproof Wellness, she offers semi-private and one-on-one sessions that emphasize foundational movement patterns, injury prevention, and long-term health. Becky has also developed innovative programs such as "Strength in Motion," which pairs structured physical training with community support and mindfulness practices. This integrative method reflects her commitment to treating wellness as a holistic journey—one that supports not just the body, but also the mind and spirit. By fostering a positive, inclusive, and educational environment, she empowers her clients to take ownership of their health, redefine aging, and build a lifestyle that lasts.
Location: Friendship Field
(Rain Location: Gym)
- 11am - 145am
- 1210pm - 110pm
CALMING EXPERIENCES
Sound Healing & Meditation
With Satoria Holland
Satoria is a certified Sound Healer, Spiritual Life Coach, and the visionary founder of Love You Louder LLC. As a survivor, mother, and natural guide, Satoria uses her lived experience to hold powerful healing space for women, families, and communities seeking restoration and peace. Through her signature sound healing experiences, chakra balancing, and holistic wellness practices, she creates safe environments for emotional release, self-discovery, and inner transformation. Satoria has shared the healing vibrations of her crystal singing bowls with city employees, private groups, and renowned wellness centers like the Edgar Cayce Center. Her events—such as the Self-Love Healing Festival and Sound Healing Experience—reflect her mission to help others reconnect with their inner voice and rise above trauma. With a deep commitment to breaking toxic cycles, Satoria blends spiritual tools, advocacy, and self-care rituals to empower others to heal loudly, live boldly, and love themselves without apology.
Sound Bath
Location: The Meditation Room
Room 301
- 11am-1145am
- 12pm - 1245pm
Guided Meditation
Location: The Meditation Room
Room 301
- 130pm -2pm
SENSORY EXPERIENCES
WORKSHOPS
Financial
Building, Saving, and Investing with Trudy-Ann Dawkins
Location: Room 103
- 1145pm - 1245pm
Professional
The Hunt For Employment in a Digital Age with Nick Lassiter
Location: Room 100
- 115pm - 215pm
Nutritional
Eating Healthy On A Budget with Bertrille Lomax
Location: Room 103
- 115pm - 215pm
CONSULTATIONS
Life Coaching & Financial Advising
Life Coaching Consultations with Josephena Winfield
In addition to serving as the Executive Director & Advisory Committee Chair of Refuel Life, Josephena Whinfield is the CEO and founder of Life in Color LLC, created from her passion for delivering quality services across all areas of support, particularly for individuals with developmental disabilities. With a background in Social Work (BSW – Virginia Commonwealth University, MSW – Walden University), she brings a holistic, client-centered approach that blends problem-solving, critical thinking, and strategic coaching. Josephena is QDDP and QMHP-A certified and currently earning clinical hours toward her LCSW. Beyond her professional work, she enjoys music, travel, community service, and making memories with loved ones.
Location: Meeting Place
- 1115am - 1215pm
- 1230pm - 130pm
One on One Financial Counseling with Sagan French
Sagan French is a Patient Account Specialist Team Lead for Graves Gilbert Clinic in Kentucky. With more than 24 years of experience in medical billing and patient account management, Sagan French brings a deep commitment to both accuracy and empathy in every aspect of her work. As the Patient Account Specialist Team Lead at Graves Gilbert Clinic, she plays a vital role in helping patients understand and navigate the often overwhelming world of healthcare finances. For the past 14 years, Sagan has specialized in securing treatment-specific financial assistance by collaborating with nonprofit organizations—ensuring that cost never becomes a barrier to necessary care. She excels in communicating with insurance providers, resolving billing issues, and guiding patients step-by-step through financial aid applications. Her approach combines technical expertise with a human touch. With a background in fine arts from Northern Kentucky University, Sagan brings creativity and compassion to her role, believing that behind every claim is a person with a story. Her focus remains on bringing clarity, support, and dignity to each patient experience—making the healthcare system a little easier to navigate for those who need it most.
Location: Room 100
- 11am - 1pm
FOOD & BEVERAGES
THE HAMPTON ROADS SELF-CARE RESOURCE DIRECTORY
Refue Life has compiled a comprehensive Self-Care Directory for the Hampton Roads area with resources like therapists, food banks, community groups, and financial support to assist community members in their efforts to take a more holistic approach to self-care. By utilizing this directory, Hampton Roads citizens can implement the 8 pillars of self-care into their daily lives. The directory provides mental health support, nutritional resources, social connections, affordable activities, and financial relief, all contributing to a healthier, balanced life.
At Refuel Life, we envision a community where mental health is openly discussed, and everyone feels safe, supported, and empowered to seek help without fear or stigma. We are working toward a future where suicide is no longer a leading cause of death—where every life is valued and protected through compassionate care, education, and prevention.
EVENT PARTNERS
Refuel Life would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our incredible partners who have generously donated their time, expertise, and resources to make this event a success. Your unwavering support and commitment have played a vital role in bringing this event to life, helping to create an experience that will have a lasting impact on all who attend. Whether through sharing knowledge, providing services, or contributing essential resources, your involvement has made a difference in helping us promote wellness and self-care in our community. We are deeply grateful for your collaboration and partnership, and we look forward to continuing to work together to create positive chang
CHKD, Seal Level Counseling & Wellness, We Rock The Spectrum - Chesapeake, Bulletproof Wellness Studio, Chesapeake Public Libraries, Mindful Moments Wellness, Life in Color LLC, Love You Louder, Pressing On Juice, Twisted Sisters Cupcakes, Chesapeake Regional Mobile Clinic, VA Cooperative Extension, Gaea Stewart-Geth Creative, Uberman Productions
Credits:
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