At Crestwood, we know first-hand the importance of Hope – it’s one of our four Pillars of Recovery. Hope is foundational to the recovery journey. It’s essential for growth. It’s the cornerstone of resilience. It promotes positive change.

At Crestwood, we say that “we hold Hope for others until they can hold it for themselves.” With a genuine smile, an encouraging word, a listening heart – we cultivate Hope across our campuses. Through thoughtful guidance, we help the people we serve rediscover the Hope within themselves. Every day, you are making a difference in the lives of those we are called to serve.

Even on the challenging days – even when our own Hope is fading, let us not forget… Hope is as persistent as the sunrise. Even when it seems like the darkness won’t relent, Hope dawns once more, inviting us again to look toward the light.

Stress can stem from a sudden change, or it can build from an accumulation of unchecked daily stressors that wear on our overall wellbeing. Whether we’re dealing with acute or chronic stress, it’s important to have a plan to help ourselves manage our stress in a healthy way. Having a WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) is a great way to outline our daily maintenance routines, as well as curate a variety of tools for our Wellness Toolboxes.

If you’re looking for some new ways to help manage your stress, you can find some helpful tips through Crestwood’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offered through Anthem Blue Cross. Login to anthemeap.com and enter your company code: Crestwood

Next, click on Explore Wellness Topics and select Stress. From there, select Find What Helps to choose from a variety of topics, including:

• Mindfulness
• Nature & the Outdoors
• Exercise & Body Movement
• Creative Expression
• Music & Sound Therapy
• Friendships & Social Support
• Time Management
• And more…

You can explore articles, videos, podcasts, and suggested books for each of these wellness topics. Use these stress-relieving resources to expand your Wellness Toolbox!

Remember, self-care and stress management are essential to leading a fruitful life. It’s important to take good care of yourself. What’s one healthy way you can better manage stress? Choose to start today!

Earth Day is April 22! Research shows the powerful connections between spending time in nature and our mental health. Why not try some of the ideas below to connect with nature and improve your mental wellbeing?

Earthing: Try this grounding practice of touching the Earth. Feel your physical connection to nature by stepping outside and standing barefoot on the grass or dirt. Lying on the beach, swimming in a natural body of water, and gardening count too.

Forest Bathing: The Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, which is often translated as “forest bathing,” is the art of immersing yourself in a forest atmosphere. Shown to lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels, forest bathing allows for time to unplug and reconnect with the great outdoors. Even if you can’t easily visit a forest, walking outside in any green space contributes to lower levels of depression and anxiety.

Bring the Outdoors In: Did you know that house plants can improve our mood, energy, and productivity? Caring for a plant can help our minds de-stress as we connect with nature. Also, let in sunlight and some fresh air through your windows. If you can, position furniture to look outdoors too.

What is your favorite way to connect with the natural world? Schedule some time to enjoy nature and celebrate our beautiful planet!