Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California’s First Partner and co-chair of the Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-being, kicked off Mental Health Awareness Month with an event at the California State Capitol. The Move Your Body, Calm Your Mind event highlighted the importance of daily mindfulness and movement in promoting mental health and overall well-being.
Siebel Newsom shared her own practices for maintaining mental wellness, such as nature walks, meditation, pilates, and yoga. Participants engaged in various physical activities to understand the benefits of regular exercise on mental health and overall health. The event aimed to address the fast-paced nature of society and the importance of slowing down, spending time in nature, and connecting with others for better mental well-being.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity not only improves brain health but also aids in weight management and reduces the risk of disease and chronic illness. As a mother of four, Siebel Newsom emphasizes the importance of parents modeling healthy behaviors for their children. She encourages daily mindfulness and physical activity, even if it’s just a simple walk around the block or light exercises like sit-ups and push-ups.
Speakers at the event included Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi and Drew Robinson, a former San Francisco Giants player who survived a suicide attempt. Robinson, now a mental health advocate, emphasized the importance of seeking help for those struggling with depression. He credited daily movement as a key aspect of his mental health maintenance, highlighting the emotional and mental benefits that come with physical activity.
The event was attended by hundreds of people who were inspired by Siebel Newsom’s message about taking care of their minds as well as their bodies. They left feeling motivated to incorporate more physical activity into their daily routine and to prioritize mindfulness in their lives.
In conclusion, Siebel Newsom’s Move Your Body, Calm Your Mind event was an excellent reminder that taking care of our minds is just as important as taking care of our bodies. By incorporating regular physical activity into our routines
