Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California’s First Partner, launched Mental Health Awareness Month by hosting the Move Your Body, Calm Your Mind event at the California State Capitol. The event emphasized the significance of daily mindfulness and physical activity in enhancing mental health and overall well-being.
During the event, Siebel Newsom shared her personal practices for maintaining mental wellness, such as nature walks, meditation, pilates, and yoga. Participants engaged in various physical activities designed for both children and adults while also learning about the numerous health benefits associated with regular exercise.
As co-chair of the Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-being, Siebel Newsom underscored the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. She stressed the importance of slowing down in today’s fast-paced society, spending time in nature, and building connections within the community.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), routine physical exercise not only enhances brain health but also aids in weight management and diminishes the risk of diseases and chronic illnesses. As a mother of four, Siebel Newsom encourages parents to model the behaviors they wish to instill in their children by incorporating daily mindfulness and physical activity into family routines.
Key speakers at the event included Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi and former San Francisco Giants player Drew Robinson, who survived a suicide attempt and is now an advocate for mental health awareness. Robinson shared how daily movement greatly benefits his mental health by promoting emotional and mental gains over physical ones. By openly discussing his struggles with depression, he seeks to inspire others facing similar challenges to seek assistance and prioritize their mental well-being.
In conclusion, California’s First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom launched Mental Health Awareness Month by emphasizing daily mindfulness and physical activity as key components of maintaining mental wellness. The Move Your Body, Calm Your Mind event highlighted these practices through engaging physical activities designed for both children and adults while providing insights into their numerous health benefits associated with regular exercise.
