Crestwood Employee Center
Contributed by: Hope Parr, Communications Manager
The first day of Autumn falls on September 22. Soon the leaves will begin to turn vivid shades of crimson, orange, and gold, and the days will become cooler and shorter. We’ll exchange short sleeves for sweaters and see pumpkin spice popping up everywhere. Yet the changing of the seasons is more than just a change in our environment. It’s also a time to examine our inner landscape. It’s a time to reflect on our goals, hopes, and dreams. It’s a time to reassess our WRAP and take inventory of our wellness tools. It’s a time to examine what’s working well in our lives and ponder what needs changing. Just as the trees shed their leaves to prepare for new growth, we can also let go of the things that are weighing us down. We can invest more time in the things that bring us joy. We can be intentional with our self-care, making sure we are getting enough sleep, that we’re moving and nourishing our bodies in healthy ways, and that we are staying connected to our spirituality. As we settle into a new season, may we all find renewed strength, peace, and hope for the journey.
Contributed by: Hope Parr, Communications Manager
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Crestwood is honored to partner with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, sponsoring and participating in their Out of the Darkness Community Walks in Sacramento, San Diego, and Santa Barbara this fall. These walks are a time to come together in solidarity, supporting those affected by suicide loss, standing with those who battle suicidal thoughts, and sharing stories of hope and resilience in the midst of the struggle.
When it comes to suicide prevention, we can all make a difference by being aware, talking openly and candidly, and having a proactive plan of support. We can learn the warning signs, keep open communication, and recognize both risks and protective factors. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is always available. Just dial or text 988, or chat 988 online to be connected to a trained crisis worker who will listen, provide support, and direct you to resources that may be helpful to you.
Further resources for suicide prevention can be found here. Together, we can ensure no one feels alone in their pain. We can offer hope and healing, connection and caring, empathy and empowerment. Together, we can stand strong for suicide prevention.
Contributed by: Hope Parr, Communications Manager
Guided imagery is a helpful tool for relaxation. It’s also been shown to reduce stress, lower anxiety, and even help aid in pain management. Using guided imagery is simple and cost-free – you just need your imagination! Start by finding a quiet space to sit and begin by taking a few deep, cleansing breaths. Once you have settled into the present moment, begin to imagine a peaceful scene. Where are you? Immerse yourself in the details of the scene, utilizing every aspect of your senses. What do you see? What sounds do you hear? Can you smell or taste anything? What can you feel?
With guided imagery, you can use your imagination to envision a serene place that makes you feel calm and peaceful. You can read or listen to a narration of a scene as well. Below is a guided imagery prompt to help you experience a blissful autumn afternoon.
Envision a long, winding trail that takes you through a forest, radiant with fall color. It’s late afternoon – golden hour. Everything is awash with vibrant golden hues. Gnarly old oak trees shed their burnt-orange leaves. Poplars sway in the breeze, their yellow leaves glimmering in the sunlight. A brook follows the curve of the trail, etching its way through the leaf-scattered forest floor. You hear it trickling over the multi-colored stones, the clear water running swiftly and smoothly. Tracing the length of the brook with your eyes, you spot a white-tailed deer bending down for a drink. The evergreen trees towering overhead reverberate with birdsong. You look up and see the sky, turning periwinkle blue. You’ve nearly reached the cabin, which you see nestled among the trees ahead. The warm glow in the windows welcomes you in. Once inside, you settle onto the sofa with a steaming cup and a new book. Before turning to page one, you take a sip from your mug. Then you breathe in deeply and exhale slowly. You repeat this a few times before coming back to the present moment, feeling relaxed and serene and ready to go about the rest of your day.
September 1: Labor Day
September 7: Grandparents’ Day
September 11: Patriot Day
September 15 – Oct. 15: Hispanic Heritage Month
September 22: First Day of Fall
September 22 – 24: Rosh Hashanah
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