As part of our Monthly Wellness Corner, we continue to highlight the many ways wellness shows up across our Penny Lane community—especially through the experiences of our own staff. Wellness isn’t just something we encourage; it’s something we live, model, and share with one another. This month, we’re excited to spotlight a simple yet powerful practice that reminds us how meaningful it can be to slow down, reconnect, and care for ourselves from the inside out.
Recently, Biri and I had the pleasure of joining the CA Mission Walkers, a group dedicated to walking the historic El Camino Real—visiting one California mission at a time. What began as a small curiosity quickly turned into something much more meaningful. There’s something grounding about stepping onto a historic path, knowing generations have walked it before you, and allowing yourself to be fully present in the experience. In our day-to-day work, we often move quickly, balancing priorities and responsibilities, but this experience invited us to pause, breathe, and simply walk with intention.
The walks themselves are not just physical activity—they are an opportunity for mental clarity, reflection, and connection. Surrounded by California’s natural beauty and rich history, we found ourselves more aware, more present, and more appreciative of the moment. It was a reminder that wellness doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it’s as simple as putting one foot in front of the other, engaging in meaningful conversation, and allowing space for your mind to reset. These moments of stillness and movement combined can have a lasting impact on how we show up—not only for ourselves, but for the youth, families, and communities we serve.
Perhaps the most powerful part of this experience has been the sense of community. From the very first walk, we were welcomed into a group that embodies encouragement, curiosity, and connection. There is something incredibly restorative about being surrounded by people who are open, kind, and willing to share stories along the journey. It reinforced for us that wellness is not just an individual practice—it’s something that grows stronger when shared with others.
As we continue to build a culture of wellness within Penny Lane, we encourage everyone to find what brings you that same sense of peace, connection, and renewal. Whether it’s walking, journaling, spending time in nature, or connecting with others, these small, intentional acts of self-care matter. They help us recharge, refocus, and continue doing this important work with heart and purpose. If you’re interested in joining a future walk with the CA Mission Walkers, feel free to reach out to either of us—we’d love to have you be part of the journey.
-Alexandra Cifuentes & Biri Baez, Penny Lane Centers
Check out some more photos below!
