Zalsa - A Contextualized Wellness Innovation for LMICs
Introduction
In a world where mental health concerns are rising, university students represent a vulnerable demographic, particularly in low-middle-income countries (LMICs). This population faces high levels of stress due to academic pressures, career uncertainties, and social challenges. However, resources for wellness and mental health interventions in LMICs remain scarce, compounded by societal stigmas and cultural barriers. Zalsa, a fusion of Zumba and Salsa tailored to the local context, emerged as a low-cost, culturally relevant initiative designed to address these issues holistically.
This case study evaluates the Zalsa program’s role in improving the physical, psychological, and social well-being of university students and staff at Aga Khan University, Pakistan, through innovative and inclusive practices (1).
Problem
Mental health disorders, exacerbated by stress, anxiety, and burnout, are prevalent among university students. In Pakistan, the lack of structured mental health programs for this demographic further exacerbates the crisis (2). The absence of low-cost, scalable solutions tailored to this population highlights the need for innovative interventions.
The blog “Zalsa: My Journey Out of Burnout into Joyful Living” (3) recounts the personal experience of burnout and the transformative power of movement. This narrative inspired Zalsa, integrating physical activity with mindfulness and cultural relevance to create a holistic wellness program accessible to resource-constrained environments
Approach
The Zalsa intervention was designed with cultural sensitivity, accessibility, and inclusivity in mind.
- Program Design: Sessions integrated Zumba and Salsa with local music, movements, and mindfulness exercises. Structured around high- and low-impact activities, sessions catered to varying fitness levels and cultural preferences.
- Execution: Over three months (July–September 2023), twelve open-house sessions were conducted, led by trained movement coaches. Each session included mindfulness exercises, cardio routines, and community engagement opportunities.
- Target Audience: Students, faculty, and staff at Aga Khan University, encompassing a wide demographic range in terms of age, profession, and gender.
- Evaluation Methodology: A mixed-method approach included surveys assessing physical fitness, mental health, and social integration pre- and post-intervention.
Innovation and Creativity
Zalsa distinguishes itself from traditional wellness programs through its innovative features:
- Cultural Relevance: The program incorporated local elements such as music and culturally acceptable movement forms, ensuring resonance with participants.
- Accessibility: Sessions were priced at an affordable $3, requiring only basic infrastructure like Wi-Fi and speakers, making it feasible for resource-constrained settings.
- Multidimensional Focus: Zalsa addressed physical fitness, mental health, and social well-being in an integrated manner, combining mindfulness, high-energy cardio, and community-building activities.
Outcomes
The intervention demonstrated measurable improvements in participants’ well-being across multiple dimensions (1):
- Participation and Demographics: 107 individuals participated, with women comprising 76%. The majority were aged 26–35 years, reflecting a key target demographic for mental health interventions.
- Wellness Metrics:
- Psychological well-being: 72% improvement.
- Work-life balance: 73% improvement.
- Overall quality of life: 80% of participants reported enhanced well-being.
- Satisfaction and Retention: 75% of participants expressed interest in continuing Zalsa, emphasizing its potential for long-term engagement.
- Feedback: Qualitative feedback highlighted the program’s role in fostering inclusivity, relaxation, and new social connections. One participant stated, “Zalsa gave me something to look forward to each week, allowing me to unwind and connect with peers from different backgrounds.”
Analysis
Zalsa’s success can be attributed to several key factors:
- Cultural Adaptability: By tailoring the program to local norms and preferences, Zalsa maximized engagement and minimized barriers to participation.
- Sustainability: The low-cost model ensures accessibility for students and staff in LMICs, even with limited institutional resources.
- Scalability: Zalsa can be replicated across other universities and organizations with minimal adjustments, leveraging its adaptable framework.
- Multidisciplinary Benefits: The program not only improved participants’ physical health but also fostered psychological resilience and community building, making it a holistic solution.
Conclusion
Zalsa offers a compelling model for addressing wellness in resource-constrained environments. By integrating physical activity, mindfulness, and cultural relevance, it promotes holistic well-being while fostering a sense of community. The program’s affordability, adaptability, and multidimensional impact position it as a viable solution for LMICs aiming to support student and staff wellness.
Future studies should explore Zalsa’s long-term impact, scalability across diverse settings, and its potential as part of professional development programs. As institutions globally seek innovative ways to support mental health, Zalsa demonstrates the transformative potential of contextualized, inclusive interventions.
References:
- Waqas, Syed, et al. “Quasi-Experimental Study of Zalsa: A Contextualized, Low-Cost, Low-Tech Wellness Innovation for University Students and Staff.” Manuscript in Review, 2024.
- Tahir, Nabil. “Dance Like Your Life Depends on It.” The Express Tribune, June. 2023.
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2420198/dance-like-your-life-depends-on-it.
- Mian, Asad I. “Zalsa: My Journey Out of Burnout into Joyful Living.” An Itinerant Observer, April 2023. https://anitinerantobserver.blogspot.com/2023/04/zalsa-my-journey-out-of-burnout-into.html.