Q How does that improve one’s quality-of-life?
A Having a healthy mind, body and spirit improves quality-of-life by preventing disease, promoting well-
being and helping us pay attention to our bodies and each other. When we are healthy, we can connect with others to build healthier neighborhoods. This work entails more than just individual behavior change, and requires making it easy for individuals and families to access safe and free/low-cost ways to exercise, eat healthy and find support in their community.
Q How can a person incorporate parks and recreation to reach that goal?
A Parks and recreation are critical to individual and community well-being. For example, visiting a park helps
community members spend time in natural settings; participate and volunteer in programming like team sports and exercise classes; engage in their community, and meet new people in forums like neighborhood events and meetings.
Q What are your favorite activities to ensure a healthy mind, body and spirit?
A I have always loved white water rafting and kayaking because it gives me an opportunity to unplug from
technology and reconnect with my family and nature. I also really enjoy walking around my neighborhood and the amazing parks in LA County. I really find much joy in participating in activities that strengthen our communities – door knocking, neighborhood cleanups, attending convenings, rallies and marches. These activities are also great ways to meet new people who are interested in advancing similar causes.
Q In our busy world, do you take the time to ensure a healthy mind, body and spirit, and if so, why?
A Yes, although what I do has changed over time. I’ve always loved to run, but over time, I have had to find
other ways to stay active, like walking and kayaking.
Q How important is it for you to find a balance between physical and mental wellness?
A It is very important to consider mental health as part of overall wellness. That said, it is also important
to note that there are varying levels of acceptance to seeking and using mental health services across communities. That is why community spaces, like parks and schools, are key locations for supporting families and communities who may be faced with trauma and promoting healing through arts, support groups, and access to other community-based services.
12 WINTER 2018 ACTIVITY GUIDE
Q How can parks and recreation affect a person’s life in a positive way?
A Parks are community hubs – safe places to exercise, learn, meet new people and have fun. These opportunities
not only benefit physical health, but also prevent isolation, which bolsters happiness and health.
Q For some people who say, ‘I just don’t have the time,’ what would your response be?
A This is a real and very valid concern. Many families across our County may work several jobs just to make ends
meet, limiting time spent on activities that promote health and well-being. Sometimes organizing at the workplace to build in more time for physical activity can help. But every little action helps – whether it’s a goal to drink more water each day, take the stairs when you can, walk for at least ten minutes, pick up the phone to call a friend, or visit a park once a month – all of these actions help our mind, body, and spirit.
Q How important is it to teach children to strive for the right balance in their lives?
A Viewing parks as community resources is one of the biggest gifts we can offer our children. Whether they
participate in team sports, volunteer to coach or lead an exercise class, help plan a community event, or serve on a community advisory council – understanding that parks are a way to both access services and be of service to your community, is helpful as they find ways to nurture their own mind, body and spirit.
Q What’s your message for everyone when it comes to striving for a healthy mind, body and spirit, and the role
of parks and recreation?
A I would reiterate that parks are community resources that we can benefit from and that benefit comes from our
participation and service.
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