Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California’s First Partner and co-chair of the Governor’s Advisory Council on Physical Fitness and Mental Well-being, started Mental Health Awareness Month with an event at the California State Capitol. The Move Your Body, Calm Your Mind event focused on the significance of daily mindfulness and movement in enhancing mental health and overall well-being.

During the event, 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 stresses 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, emphasizes the importance of seeking help for those struggling with depression. He credits daily movement as a key aspect of his mental health maintenance, highlighting the emotional and mental benefits that come with physical activity.