As we dive into the new school year, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of classes, assignments, and extracurricular activities. But amidst the hustle and bustle, it’s crucial to remember the importance of self-care. Taking time for yourself is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity for maintaining balance, well-being, and success both in and out of the classroom.
To inspire you, our team has shared how we like to practice self-care. Each of us has found unique ways to recharge and stay grounded, and we hope that our stories encourage you to find your own self-care routine as the school year begins. Whether it’s through journaling, exercise, creative pursuits, or simply taking a moment to breathe, there’s a method of self-care that fits every lifestyle.
Take a moment to explore our team’s personal self-care practices and think about how you can incorporate self-care activities into your daily routine. Remember, self-care is not selfish—it’s essential!
Ari Woodard, San Francisco AmeriCorps VISTA
Practicing self care is somewhat of a new concept for me. In my teens, I thought it was frivolous and a waste of time; but in my 20s, I’ve realized it’s 100% necessary to keep you from going bananas. I focus on 3 things when practicing self care: body, mind, and soul (I’m aware it’s cheesy). For my body, I ensure I’m sleeping more than 5 hours a night and I’m eating a real meal at some point of the day. For my mind, I go bouldering, I’ve discovered it forces me to focus on things other than my thoughts–10/10 recommend. And for my soul, I have Shabbat dinner every Friday where, like any Jewish mother, I force my friends to eat a very large meal and we get to remember that we are people outside of work and late stage capitalism.
Carlos Hernández, South Alameda County Program Coordinator
I practice self-care by designating some time for myself throughout the week to reflect, practice gratitude, and dream. Whether it’s taking a drive throughout an unfamiliar road just to enjoy the scenery or enjoying a nice meal out by myself, either option is always welcomed. Weekly walks with my family, binge watching a show or simply taking care of my hair are other ways I practice self-care.
Chad Seamon, Program Manager
Self-care for me includes caring for my mind, body, spirit, AND my community. Each morning, I take a few minutes to hand-grind my coffee and pause to reflect on what I’m grateful for. I care for my body through frequent bike rides, hiking new-to-me trails, and breaking out my paddleboard. I care for my spirit by pursuing creative outlets (currently pottery). But self-care is only one piece of the puzzle; I need care from my community to support my wellness and I in turn reciprocate that care. My favorite community care activities include walks, deep conversations over coffee and pastries, picnics, and playing games with loved ones. Wellness is a community effort.
Courtney Ma, Sacramento Program Coordinator
Self-care means making time to do the things we love! For me, it’s cooking, baking, and playing with our family dog. When there’s time and I really want to challenge myself, I’ll try my hand at painting, but usually practicing self-care means baking treats for loved ones. In the summertime in Sacramento, my dog and I wake up early to get a walk in and try to beat the heat. There’s nothing like having a furry friend by your side to help you relax!
Jackie Penate, AmeriCorps VISTA
One of my favorite self-care activities is taking care of my nails. Setting some time aside for nail care is surprisingly soothing and helps me step away from daily work life. I always choose a nail color with anticipation, knowing it will set my mood for the rest of the week. This weekly activity not only boosts my self-expression but also provides a moment of peace and personal reflection, making it an essential part of my self-care routine.
Kelly Salazar, Program Administrator
For me, self-care is finding the little moments to relax, reflect, and unwind. When I need a little self-care, I turn to a quick breathing exercises, taking a walk, or listening to an audiobook or podcast. Recently, I’ve gotten into “junk journaling” where I collect unique items like stickers, receipts, and little mementos to create collage-based journal spreads. It has been a fun and easy creative outlet for me! One of my all-time favorite self-care practices is giving myself moments for reflection—whether through journaling, conversations with friends, or simply enjoying some alone time.
Nikki Lopez, San Diego Program Coordinator
Self-care holds significant importance for me, especially as it served as my primary stress relief during my previous job working as a social worker. My go-to self-care habit is my dedication to Orangetheory Fitness. The intense 60-minute interval training sessions not only help me center my focus on breathing but also release an abundance of endorphins. No matter how challenging my day has been, I always leave feeling lighter and rejuvenated.
Rachelle Banares, San Francisco Program Coordinator
I start of my day by drinking a tall glass of water and open the windows to allow fresh air to flow through my room. In addition, I make time in the day to take a mindful walk outside to ensure I give myself a break from the screen and take a moment to pause. In the evening after work, you may find me in a heated vinyasa yoga class which helps with my mood, mobility, strength, and brings more balance to my life. Lastly, I end my evening with a warm cup of tea to cue my body to decompress and sleep for the evening.
Ruben Miranda-Juarez, Albuquerque Program Coordinator
I love doing the most so self-care might look less peaceful than it might for some. Consistently, I go to jiu-jitsu class. I know that moving my body is important and really improves my overall mood. And lately, I’ve been connecting with friends via the phone. We spend that time encouraging each other and sitting with gratitude because we know what it took to get here. Those connections I think are what sustain the most during the busy seasons and give me energy to do all the things in the summer.
Vanessa Tat, Program Assistant
I practice self-care by engaging in activities that feel resourcing to my mind and body and that allow me to feel fully present. One thing that does this is for me is creating art, whether it’s drawing, painting, sewing, or something else. Recently, I’ve been into building terrariums, but I often find new and interesting crafts to explore. Finally, I like to move my body in ways that are fun and feel good to me, like pilates and ice skating. And when all else fails, I just blast music and dance alone in my apartment!