MENTAL HEALTH GOES HAND IN HAND WITH PHYSICAL HEALTH
There are four main areas of my physical health routine that hold power to positively or negatively impact my mental health.
01
Sleep Routine
Even a few nights without hitting that 7-10 hours of sleep can fog the brain. Protecting my sleeping routine is so important.
02
Eating & Drinking Routine
I aim to keep my mind sober (no alcohol or substances), my system hydrated (loads of water intake), and my body filled with the right nutrition.
03
Exercise Routine
Unless I am really sick, my goal is to get outside or to the gym every single day for at least 30 minutes of physical activity and stretches.
04
Outdoor Routine
Whether biking, hiking, kayaking, surfing, running, or walking, not a week goes by without me being outside engulfed in nature.
I grew up in North Texas where the weather can go from freezing cold to unbearably hot and humid, with tornados and flash flooding in between. This meant that there were large chunks throughout the year where I would primarily stay indoors. For me personally, this directly impacted my overall health, especially my mental health. While it wasn't an easy decision, in 2023 I decided to move to the sunshine state of California where I could primarily spend my weeks outside in the sun, surrounded by nature. This has made all the difference in the world.
Regardless of where you live, I encourage you to seek ways to get outside, stay active, and connect with nature. Even if just going on a walk or bike ride! Some of the most anxious, depressed, and lonely people I know, have very limited time outdoors in nature and instead primarily remain indoors in front of screens. I don't think this is a coincidence.
Favorite Place to Bike Ride
After moving to SoCal, I spent a whopping $40 for an old beach cruiser bike and love finding new places to go for a relaxing ride. One of my favorite areas to cruise, is along the coast at Newport Beach, and throughout the stunning beach-side neighborhoods on the Balboa peninsula. I play my favorite music while riding, and say hello to as many people as I can. This simple (and free!) activity does so much for me physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Favorite Garden to Visit
The Huntington grounds are massive with loads of beautiful trails to walk on, elaborate gardens to walk through, and landscaped lawns to sit on to journal or read. The botanical gardens contain over 130 acres worth of stunning scenery and architectural designs with various themes like Japanese, Chinese, and Australian gardens. Botanical gardens are a wonderful place to get exercise, rest, connect with nature, and interact with others who are doing the same.
Favorite Swim Hole
Tucked away in the San Bernardino National Forrest, Heart Rock Trail is located in Crestline, California. This trail runs alongside a year-round creek with perfect swim holes. It leads right to a 20+ foot waterfall that falls alongside a large rock cliff that appears to have a heart shape cut out of it. The trail dead ends right at the top of the rock cliff. An easy climb down puts you at the top of the waterfall, and another climb down (a bit more difficult) puts you at the base of the waterfall. It doesn't look big in pictures, but the heart rock cutout can hold 4-6 adults. Dogs are allowed. This trail is kid friendly. This trail also is known to local rock climbers! The perfect half day or full day get away for a hike and swim.
Favorite Lake Town
As much as I enjoy time at the beach, I am totally a lake and river girl! I will never forget the first trip I took to Big Bear Lake immediately after moving here. As I drove through the curvy mountain roads with windows down, music blaring, pine trees towering throughout the mountain views, and my dog hanging her head out the window in pure bliss, I literally cried because I was so happy. I knew I had found my place. A place where I can retreat and focus on the mind, body, and soul. I've made many trips to this magical little mountain town, and it has yet to lose its impact on me!
Favorite Surf Spot
My actual surfing friends are going to kill me for saying this. BUT, as a brand new (and still pretty awful) surfer that's not familiar with the ocean, I'm a big fan of taking my board to Blackies near Newport Beach pier. The water is shallow and crystal clear with occasional perfect beginner waves. There are a lot of lifeguards in this area which always makes me feel a bit safer. I learned really fast just how brutal of a workout surfing is. But it's also one of the most peaceful and freeing physical activities I've ever experienced! Surfing and/or boogie boarding helps focus the mind on the activity at hand, while bringing so much fun and child-like adventure in the mix.
Favorite Nature Get Away
It's no secret that Yosemite National Park is a global treasure for nature and hiking lovers. The South entrance to this park happens to be only 4.5 hours from where I now live, making it my absolute favorite nature getaway. Regardless of how jumbled up my mind feels, I always know that a quick trip to unplug in this breathtaking park will always provide me with the mental cleanse needed. My personal favorite time to visit Yosemite is Spring.
Favorite Strenuous Hike
If you've ever wondered what it would be like to stand directly behind the infamous Hollywood letters and overlook the city of Los Angeles, then this trail is for you! The Hollyridge trail is marked as "moderate" due to an elevation gain of 849 feet over 5.1 miles round trip. There were parts of the trail where my niece and I were straight climbing up rocks, but it was so fun. The elevation definitely kicked our Texas booties, so bring loads of water as there isn't much shade on this trail. While we only experienced a coyote walk in front of us, be mindful that mountain lions and rattle snakes have also been spotted on this trail. While the Hollywood sign is protected by a fence that remains under video surveillance for trespassers, you can get really close to the fence for some awesome photos! Check out other hikes and locations here to get good pictures with the Hollywood sign.
Favorite Nature Trail
One of the most unique hiking trails in Southern California is by far Solstice Canyon trail. This beautiful hike is located in the mountainous canyons of Malibu and is especially gorgeous in the Spring. Follow the 2.6 mile trail through the mountains until you reach the beautiful ruins of a partially burned mansion built in the mid 1900s. The ruins are surrounded by trickling waterfalls and lush greenery in the Spring. Plus, all throughout the hike you will experience gorgeous views of the Malibu coast. While this trail is partially shaded the closer you get to the ruins, be mindful that the bulk of the hike is not shaded. And of course, there is always risk of running into mountain lions in these hills!
