This August, we’re celebrating National Wellness Month, and our staff and Board are sharing the personal wellness rituals that help themselves and their families stay grounded, healthy, and connected. Just as parents and caregivers need support to nurture their children, caring for ourselves helps create the stable, loving environments where young children thrive.
“I spend as much time as I can outdoors. Being in nature rejuvenates me. I love the smells, the play of sunlight and shadow, the sounds of rushing water or wind in the tops of the trees – these things remind me of the beauty all around me. This picture is from a hike a few weeks ago with my son in the Cucamonga Wilderness – there was a waterfall at the end of the hike!” – Lisa, Vice President of Learning and Community Engagement
“I truly enjoy running and being outside. Spending time with my daughter and finding new places to run especially while on vacation brings me joy and fuels my wellness. I always feel so accomplished and energized after my runs. Here is a picture of my daughter and I out on our favorite trail and me running through Tempe, AZ.” – Yvette, Program Officer
“Legos aren’t just for kids—they’re a creative outlet for all ages. I love channeling my imagination into building intricate spaceships and whimsical tree forts. The joy on my children’s faces when they play with something I’ve created is deeply rewarding. For me, building with Legos is both relaxing and therapeutic; even the simple act of sorting pieces by color becomes a calming, stress-relieving ritual.” – Andrew, Program Officer
“One of the best ways I care for my well-being and my family’s is through gardening. It’s my time to step away from screens, slow down, and reconnect with nature. Gardening keeps me moving, lowers stress, and gives me the satisfaction of watching something thrive because I nurtured it. It’s good for my body, my mind, and my soul, and at the end of the day, I get to enjoy fresh food with my family that we grew together.” – Tiffany, Director of Partnerships and Government Affairs
“When I am overwhelmed I like to go out in nature and hike, walk or run. I think the fresh air, birds chirping, being surrounded by beautiful flowers, adorable dogs and the warm sun (thanks to our beautiful California weather) will do it for me. I like to visit Fairview Park so during the spring and summer there’s tons of cute little bunnies running around. The bunnies are my favorite!” – Janette, Administrative Analyst
“One of my favorite self care activities is singing. I noticed a while back that singing brings balance to me, physically and mentally. I believe it’s the vibration that helps. It calms me down when I’m nervous, it picks me up when I’m down and it just improves my mood in general.” – Erwin, Community and Family Engagement Senior Program Officer
“A wellness practice I enjoy is going on daily walks. I like to incorporate them throughout my day, before or after work, or during free moments at work. Walking helps ground me and gives me the space and time to be present, mindful, and reflective. My favorite time to walk is in the evening, when the air feels cool and crisp, while I listen to my favorite podcast.” – Vy, Community Outreach and Partnerships Manager
“Ever since I was a little girl, I have always enjoyed being in the water. Whether it’s at the pool or in the ocean, swimming is one of my favorite ways to move my body. Whenever I go for a good swim, I come out feeling centered and strong. Here is a picture of my son and I enjoying the pool (and our cool new swim goggles) during a recent trip to Monterey Bay!” – Jessica, Program Officer
“My wellness practice would be spending time with my family. Whether it’s going on a staycation or exploring a new park, it always helps to keep me focused and reminds me that even though somedays don’t always go as planned, time with them will always be my happy place. I have always felt that laughing and having a good time with those I love relieves my stress and helps remind me of the better things that life has to offer.” – Cristina, Executive Assistant
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