Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
Special to Valley News
The Soboba Sports Complex opened its gymnasium to a variety of vendors who shared their expertise in different areas at the 2024 Health + Wellness Fair on August 8. Services and goods ran the gamut of promoting physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health to those who attended the community event.
Soboba’s Cultural Resource Department shared a huge bin of fresh organic produce from its Cultural Garden along with starter plants of basil, Japanese Chile and bell peppers. They also promoted “Gardening for Wellness” and explained some of the known benefits from the activity.
Gardening can help reduce stress as the sights, smells and sounds of the garden promote relaxation. Direct exposure to dirt and plants can boost the immune system and reduce the likelihood of allergies and some illnesses. Those who grow their own fruits and vegetables are more conscious of maintaining a healthy diet. The gentle physical exercise experienced while gardening can aid rehabilitation from an injury or illness. Working in a garden increases overall physical activity, possibly reducing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis and other medical conditions. It can also improve mental health by reducing depression, anxiety and stress. A study revealed that regular gardening can reduce the risk of developing dementia by 36 percent.
Melissa Campos, representing MARs Whealthness, provided mini-meditation sessions using a sound bath. She also taught some of the younger visitors effective breathing techniques through fun games. The goal of the company is to create a positive community, optimize healing, connection and growth to inspire and cultivate the best version of oneself. Campos, an education consultant, sound bath practitioner and yoga teacher, was inspired to pursue this vocation after overcoming her own health challenges.
Sarah E. Vazquez showcased her linocut prints, which garnered positive feedback from visitors. Around-Birth Collective shared resources to improve perinatal health outcomes in the Inland Empire and North San Diego through collaboration, education, and advocacy.
Stephanie Sadaka, owner of Nutrishop, educated visitors on nutrition for sports fitness, weight loss, and overall wellness. Their Hemet store offers an Evolt 360 body scan for detailed body measurements, aiding in personalized meal planning.
Crystal Aguilar presented various bee products, highlighting the health benefits of bee pollen. The Cahuilla Consortium promotes safety and wellbeing in Native communities, while Inter-Tribal Sports is facilitating softball signups and offering CPR and First Aid training.
For more information on services and events, visit MARs Whealthness, Nutrishop, and Cahuilla Consortium.
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