In our fast-paced lives, it's quite common to get caught up in the constant grind, losing touch with our well-being and feeling like inner peace is a distant cousin. Thankfully these days, wellness has gone beyond just a trendy term to turnover turmeric; it's now a major focus for anyone seeking balance, health, and fulfillment. At a wellness retreat, you can experience that much-needed reset to focus on your balance and explore new avenues of relaxation and self-discovery. An Oasis of Serenity Picture this, you take a break from the daily chaos of life and allow yourself to walk through a stu ..read more

March marks Women’s History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the immeasurable contributions of women past and present. In this post, we take a look at a particularly poignant struggle that's happening in Iran—a quest for freedoms which Iranian women are bravely leading against formidable challenges. Women’s Rights in Iran Looking at the recent history of women's rights in Iran shows true resilience and unyielding courage of women who advocate for the fundamental right to self-determination. The current era starting vividly with the Green Movement in 2009, women's active participation in the ..read more

Imagine a place where the misty air of the Santa Cruz mountains gently nudges you towards inner peace and the whispering creeks guide you to deeper connections — not just with nature, but with the most intricate aspects of yourself.  Held April 19 through 21 2024, our men’s retreat is tucked away in the heart of the Jikoji Zen Center, we invite you to redefine the art of relationship through understanding your attachment style and nervous system. Our mission is to create an enclave for men's health, where personal development and relationship growth are encouraged and celebrated. Here, ag ..read more

Mental health is a journey that looks different for everyone, especially within Black and Brown communities where the need for culturally sensitive support is both profound and vital. In our shared pursuit of a world where mental well-being is accessible to all, we want to empower you with a helpful resource list. Navigating mental health can be a lonely trip, but it doesn't have to be. It's a journey best taken with those who understand and can offer support. Culturally Attuned BIPOC Therapists When finding the right therapist, it is essential to prioritize those who are trained and licensed ..read more

Throughout history, Black LGBTQ+ icons have left an unforgettable imprint on art, activism, and culture. Let's pay tribute to their enduring impact and work towards a future that embraces inclusivity. Alvin Ailey  A groundbreaking dancer and choreographer, shattered barriers with his poignant work that celebrated the beauty of the African American experience. His enduring legacy is embodied in the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, an institution steadfastly dedicated to fostering diversity, inclusion, and artistic excellence in the realm of dance. Audre Lorde A renowned poet and civil ..read more

As we celebrate Black History Month, we must honor the individuals who continue to impact our diverse communities profoundly. One such luminary is Honey Mahogany, an activist and politician whose work has reverberated throughout San Francisco, leaving a legacy of change and inclusivity. As residents of this vibrant city, as members and allies of the LGBTQIA+ community, and as humans advocating for equality, let's explore the powerful strides made by Honey and the indelible mark she's left on our hearts and society. Advocacy for LGBTQIA+ Rights Honey Mahogany has become synonymous with staunc ..read more

January marks a significant time for the health of women and AFAB folks — it is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month. This month is a dedicated period to amplify the message about the importance of preventing and detecting cervical cancer early, a disease that affects many but is often preventable. Today, we'll delve into cervical cancer, why prevention is crucial, how early detection saves lives, ways to spread awareness, and the channels available to support those affected. What is Cervical Cancer? Cervical cancer arises in the cells of the cervix, which connects the uterus and vagina. It's prim ..read more

It’s been over 40 years since the first official reporting of AIDS, the epidemic has undeniably left lasting ripple effects on the LGBTQ community.  While there is ongoing work to process the collective pain, hurt and anger surrounding AIDS, a silver lining is becoming more apparent. The heightened social stigma around the disease coupled with government neglect and injustices acted as the catalyst for various identifies- gay, queer, lesbian, bisexual and transgender, to come together in order to combat the AIDS epidemic. This collective action of caring is one of the reasons I am gearin ..read more

Greetings, Rouse community! As we bid farewell to 2023, we are delighted to present a retrospective look at our impactful journey at Rouse Relational Wellness. From enriching couples' sessions to enlightening workshops, we've had a remarkable year, and we're eager to share our achievements.  Join us for a thoughtful reflection on the strides we've made, celebrating the successes and growth within our therapeutic programs. Looking forward, we're excited to provide a glimpse into our upcoming initiatives for 2024, as we continue our dedicated commitment to fostering relational well-being. T ..read more

As the holiday season approaches, many of us are reminded of the importance of family and the warm memories of this time of year. However, this season can be a stark reminder of difficult family dynamics or even estrangement from relatives for some of us. This is where the concept of a "chosen family" becomes crucial. In this blog post, we will discuss what a chosen family is and why it is essential, especially for those who may not have a supportive or loving blood family. We will also touch on ways to connect with your chosen family this holiday season. What is a chosen family?  A chose ..read more