If you’re fortunate enough to call San Diego your home, you’ll be happy to know that San Diego can be a great place for improving your mental health. Across the globe, there is an increased awareness of the importance of mental health in our lives. As with our bodies, our minds are equally critical in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Finding a regular routine with a splash of spontaneity can drastically improve cognitive abilities, brain cell regeneration, and decrease the risk of contracting mental health related illnesses throughout our lives.
In 2019 alone, 20.6% of adults in the United States suffered from some form of mental health related illness. These included depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias and more. The physical consequences of an unhealthy mind cause a Ripple Effect, posing a 40% increased chance to contract cardiovascular and metabolic diseases for those suffering from depression or anxiety. Implementing daily activities has proven to counter these effects through lifestyle satisfaction, sharpening your mind, and improving both mental and physical attributes.
Whether you live in sunny San Diego, CA, or make time to visit this great city, indoor and outdoor activities are plentiful with a plethora of destinations that will provide great mental and physical exercise and enjoyment. Its renowned terrain is full of intimate getaways and explorative treks to free your mind from its daily monotony. Consider our 6 top destinations to stay alert, active and alive.
- The Tijuana River Valley Regional Park Community Garden – This community garden features 136 garden plots available to members in the neighboring community. Use this as organic inspiration to build your own at-home garden for both physical and mental exercise.
- Sunset Cliffs Ravines, Caves and Coves – The California coast has motivated many who’ve come to its shores. Soak in the views and the vitamin D at the towering precipices of Sunset Cliffs Ravines. The jagged crags and sandy shoreline can challenge your body while keeping your mind alert of its surroundings.
- The Sunny Jim Cave – Tour the historical bootlegger’s tunnel throughout Sunny Jim Cave. This self-guided outing has been active since 1905 and expands into seven separate internal channels. Dug by two Chinese laborers in 1902 during the prohibition era, alcohol and opium were smuggled into the city of San Diego under the cover of night. Approximately 15 – 20 minutes for its full exploration, this is an experience that offers a physical and mental adventure you won’t soon forget.
- Summer Past Farms – Venturing east of San Diego on Kumeyaay Highway takes you to the mountainous terrain and perennial beauty of Summer Past Farms. This certified wildlife habitat is equipped with lavender gardens, gift shops, handmade soaps, herbal salves, fragrance oils, and a refreshing view of El Capitan mountain. Take the time to relax or participate in the guided tours at whatever pace you choose; this could be the break you’ve been needing.
- La Jolla – For the full coastal experience, go to where there’s 266 sunny days a year, 1,293 merchants to try, 101 restaurants for dining, and over 200 seals and sea lions sunbathing; go to La Jolla. Home to Seaside Village, travelers and enthusiasts have savored the sights and amenities at this penultimate Southern California destination. The caves and beaches in the surrounding area are exhilarating ways to improve happiness and mutual experiences with a loved one.
- Star of India – Home to the oldest active sailing ship in the world, the Star of India was built in the Isle of Man in 1863, and still offers onboard tours to this day. Launched five days before the famous Gettysburg Address by President Abraham Lincoln, this ship has completed 21 trips around the world with more harrowing tales than you can imagine. With over 14 historic ships at the Maritime Museum of San Diego, you’re sure to experience a piece of history unlike anywhere in the world.
Making the time to enjoy the sites, sounds, and people of the San Diego area can enhance how you experience life. This change of pace can provide newfound routines and fulfillment to measurably improve your health for the better. But however you choose to explore, do so with intention, being fully present and practicing mindfulness —your mind and body will thank you.
