Health & Wellness

At Cornerstones we see health & wellness as part of a whole-person philosophy that incorporates healthy wellness habits into everyday life. This component of our program is based on the preponderance of research that has shown that healthy habits have an influence far beyond the physical realm. Practices such as mindful nutrition, exercise, and sleep maintenance, have a meaningful impact on negative emotions and improve mental health in general. A well-balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients for the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a key role in regulating mood. And regular exercise releases endorphins, known as “feel-good” chemicals,  offers opportunities for social interaction, boosting social connections and reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness. By adopting healthy eating habits and incorporating exercise into daily routines, individuals can experience improved mood, increased energy levels, and enhanced overall well-being.

Additionally, a healthy diet and physical exercise have a positive impact on cognitive function, including memory, attention, and executive functioning. Regular exercise increases blood flow to the brain, stimulates the release of growth factors, and promotes the formation of new neural connections, enhancing memory and cognitive abilities. By nurturing the brain through nutrition and exercise, individuals can optimize their mental capabilities and overall cognitive well-being.

The impact of nutrition and exercise on mental health is undeniable. By embracing a balanced diet and regular physical activity, individuals can reduce the risk of mental health disorders, alleviate symptoms of existing conditions, enhance cognitive function, and improve overall mood and well-being. Incorporating nutrient-rich foods and engaging in regular exercise not only nurtures the body but also supports optimal brain function and emotional well-being.

How we work with Health & Wellness at Cornerstones:

We require organized and intentional exercise activity for a minimum of three days a week and a client must schedule this into their calendar. We offer exercise options both inside the gym and outside in nature. All clients receive a membership to a local gym. Many of our clients supplement this core exercise regimen with yoga, dance, rock climbing, biking, trail running, surfing, skiing, and hikes into the surrounding mountains and beyond. 

On a weekly basis, our clients work with a registered dietician to learn about nutrition and develop a menu of recipes that they themselves prepare. They will also learn about the impact of different foods on energy and general health. 

Developing healthy and ​productive sleep habits is crucial to being productive and effective when you are awake. Many young adults struggle with developing a healthy and consistent sleep schedule. We work with our clients to institute habits around building a strong sleep schedule that they follow throughout our program. Incorporating healthy sleep habits for young adults can lead to improved focus, cognitive function, mood regulation, and overall well-being.

Our clients engage in weekly mindfulness and meditation groups. Meditation and mindfulness practices have tremendous health benefits that include amelioration of mental health symptoms and improvement in focus, concentration, cognitive flexibility, and organization. 

Our culture is replete with stories of people reconnecting with themselves through nature. A great deal of research has demonstrated that being in nature is a therapeutic process in and of itself. At Cornerstones, we recognize the importance of a meaningful connection with nature. We incorporate these natural areas into our program to expose our clients to the benefits of being in nature and to help them develop healthy habits that lead to emotional well-being. Spending time in nature can lead to reduced stress, improved mood, increased creativity, and enhanced overall mental well-being. 

Clients are encouraged to pursue passions and hobbies that may not directly relate to a client’s future professional or academic aspirations. At Cornerstones, each of our clients pursues hobbies, such as playing an instrument, dance, physical fitness, sports, art, sailing, and photography.  The pursuit of hobbies connects to the broader goals of personal growth and emotional well-being within the Cornerstones program.