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Self care featuring outdoor and in-home comforts

This year, we have all pushed the envelope in our ways of living and caretaking. While not one of our routines remains the same, we must find ways in which to safely connect with others and ourselves—even despite the current circumstances of life.

Our team here at The Beale Group is most inspired by outdoor adventures, which is also why we’ve created a short list of our top five recommendations for safe and local outdoor fun.

However, we do recognize that during shelter-in-place regulations, most may not always feel comfortable being outdoors for extended periods of time.

For this reason, we have considered the in-home comforts our team has been enjoying, and would like to share them with you for wellness inspiration and tips as we all navigate life in a pandemic.

Initiate a routine digital detox to free your mind from stress caused by avid consumption of online news and media.   In recent times, we’ve gained a significant amount of control relating to the media we choose to view—all indicated in our ability to decide whether or not we watch or skip commercials or program credits; which shows we auto-record; and, ultimately, deciding when and how to engage online. From the networks we join, to the apps we choose to download, there is a great need to exercise discipline for the sake of our mental and physical health and well-being. Leaders in our team have found great peace and quietude in learning when to disconnect from media online by initiating routine digital detox. Whether weekly, or whenever you notice signs of distress and fatigue, we highly recommend you consider unplugging from your phone, email, and any media for any given amount of time that provides wholistic refresh for you. We certainly believe your stress levels will thank you for it.

Treat yourself, or your children, to an early bedtime every now and again to allow the opportunity for reflective time.   While the pandemic has impacted everyone in various ways, it has inevitably altered the manner in which we live and work. Most families have been tasked with virtual learning programs, in addition to the transition of an in-office routine to remote work. No matter what life for you looks like at the moment, it has proved effective for individuals on our team to administer early bedtimes, where possible, to allow for reflective quiet time. We’re all wearing many proverbial hats these days and sometimes it’s helpful to mindfully slow down and create the space and time we need in the home to just be.

Participate in any positive self-care routine that inspires and cultivates a joyful you and a joyful atmosphere.   2020 has brought incredible challenges but has also taught us incredible lessons—resulting in our ability to find creative agency by connecting with self and community even in frustrating and fearful circumstances. From virtual workout classes to thousands of online workshops, there are various positive outlets for each and every one of us. Whether you are looking to join an online community, or are just interested in browsing offerings available, you can find yourself safely gathered with others by way of your phone or computer. Beyond media, simply doing things that you enjoy like reading, walking, or exploring new areas by car, find (or continue) a self-care routine that you intend to keep up with. Even if the activities change, make it a healthy habit to intentionally look after yourself. Staying energized and joyful is vital to our health in every way.


Top 5 recommendations for local family fun and entertainment

As we conclude the year 2020, our community here at The Beale Group is continually reflecting upon opportunities to support and empower local businesses—including, most recently, vital opportunities as a result of our global health crisis and shelter-in-place regulations.

With new ways of living and working, we find ourselves with an ongoing need for quick tips and tricks to entertain family for safe and local fun.

With decades of experience, and years serving our neighborhood in Sebastopol, we have established a roundup of our top five recommendations for safe, local family fun and entertainment.

1. Jenner Headlands
  On a 26-mile jaunt and less than 60-minute excursion from Sebastopol, Jenner Headlands tops the list with its scenic drive and coastal views. This outdoor oasis overlooks the Pacific Ocean and features 5,360 acres of safe, outdoor fun. This local spot will provide the deep breath of fresh air we all crave while helping us all relieve any indoor fatigue as there is plenty of space to physically distance while taking in the beautiful grounds.
2. Rivers End Restaurant   To complete your day on the coast, we highly recommend a beautiful sunset at Rivers End! During times like these, incredible views of nature comfort and uplift. Rivers End brings hospitality and happiness together in this thoughtful, bright restaurant with sights overlooking the intersection of Russian River and the Pacific Coast. Experience fine dining featuring seasonal menus made with locally-sourced ingredients by culinary experts that have studied with world-renowned chefs from Barcelona to Napa. Rivers End is open daily from 1PM to 6PM for takeout orders and deck picnics. Please visit their website to order and consult for status updates before planning your itinerary.
3. Doran Regional Park   While campgrounds are closed until after January 9, 2021, Doran Regional Park features a two-mile stretch of beach which is the perfect local gem for family fun; it provides access for various outdoor activities—including walking, fishing, kayaking, and more. Typical park hours are from 7AM to sunset and there is a $7 non-member fee for parking. Please consult with the website for status updates before planning your itinerary.
4. Ragle Ranch State Park   Ragle Ranch Regional Park in west Sebastopol features soccer and softball fields, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, a playground, off-leash dog park, peace garden, and group and individual picnic sites with barbecues.  The park is noted for its beautiful oaks and includes backcountry trails along the prime bird-watching habitat of Atascadero Creek. A perfect spot for to spend the afternoon with family.
5. Andy’s Grocery   Whether you begin or end with Andy’s Grocery, its fresh, local produce has remained a community champion here in Sebastopol for over 55 years. In a time like now, it is increasingly important to support one another by frequenting shops like these that are a very special part of our unique business offerings. Shop this family-owned, open-air market by picking up fresh produce and natural foods for your home or an outdoor picnic. Currently, Andy’s is open from 8:00AM to 8:00PM. Please consult with the website for status updates and operating hours before planning your itinerary.