More than 570 recognized Native American tribes populate the US today, representing nearly 7 million people. Native American Heritage Month is a time to honor their diverse cultures, histories, and immeasurable contributions to our country. It’s also an opportunity to recognize the health inequities they face today, including disproportionately higher rates of mental health challenges than the rest of the general population.
Native Americans are 2.5 times more likely than others to have serious psychological distress, but mental health resources are less accessible to many Native American communities. As an employer, you can improve their access to mental health support by offering culturally relevant mindfulness and sleep content that’s available from anywhere, anytime.
Calm resources to support Native American employees
In that spirit, we’ve curated selection of Calm resources that features sleep stories and music from Native American mindfulness experts and artists. We’ve also added content from other popular experts on Calm, so your Native American employees can access daily mental well-being support anytime, anywhere.
- Dreams of He Sapa
Let the spirit of Lakota wisdom guide you through the South Dakota prairie as you drift off to sleep. Dreams of He Sapa is narrated by Lakota Irish actor Zahn McClarnon and developed in collaboration with his mother. The music was composed by Robert Tree Cody of Dakota and Maricopa heritage and performed by Tiana Spotted Thunder, a Lakota recording artist. - Visiting Old Friends
In Visiting Old Friends, comedy writer Sierra Teller Ornelas helps you drift off to sleep as she takes you on her personal journey through her mother’s artistry as a sixth-generation Master Navajo Tapestry Weaver. - Night Chants – Native American Flute Music
With this one-hour album of 10 soundtracks, experience the evocative sound of Native American music. The Night Chants album was recorded by R. Carlos Nakai, a Navajo-Ute musician who is considered the premier player of the Native American cedar flute. The album was created in collaboration with Canyon Records of Phoenix, Arizona, a producer and distributor of Native American music. It’s one of the oldest independent record labels in the music industry as well as one of the oldest cultural institutions in the state of Arizona. Nakai has recorded over 30 albums with Canyon Records, including two certified gold and Canyon Trilogy, certified platinum. - Daily Jay Series
Hosted by purpose coach and former monk Jay Shetty, The Daily Jay Series helps listeners elevate mental health as part of their self-care routine. In his brief daily sessions, listeners can retreat to their inner sanctuary, create positive intentions, and take actionable steps toward living their ideal life. - Emotions Series
The Emotions series is hosted by Tamara Levitt, Head of Mindfulness at Calm. She helps listeners regulate strong emotions, such as anxiety, anger, and grief. In each session, all lasting less than 13 minutes, listeners will be able to pause, heal, and manage their strong emotions through a guided meditation practice. - Daily Move Series
The Daily Move series, guided by yoga and mindfulness instructor Mel Mah, is a great way to reconnect with your body and reduce stress. Her movement sessions are appropriate for all levels and can be easily integrated into your daily routine.
Supporting Native American employees going forward
The experiences of Native Americans are integral to our country’s heritage and who we are today. By embracing their stories and contributions, we build collective understanding and honor those who came before us while continuing to build a more resilient country. When cultural awareness is embedded into our daily lives, we can create environments in which everyone can thrive.
For more information on proactively supporting employee mental health and well-being, check out our pricing or connect with a Calm specialist today.