It was a quiet morning in my husband’s hometown in California. The past few days had been long and full of hard decisions. My husband kept mentioning that he wished we were home under better circumstances. His father had passed away, and we were there to attend the funeral. But for this morning, it was just him and me.

We got up early and drove to Silver Strand State Beach National Park, one of my husband’s favorite beaches. Sometimes being a military spouse means you live states away from the nearest beach, so as a person who grew up close to the water, this morning was a gift. Sitting in the sand watching the rolling waves and feeling the ocean breeze on our faces was tender and meaningful. For the first time in a while, it felt like we both were investing in true self-care.

Riding the Waves

As we sat in the sand, my husband rested his head on my shoulders. Although this was a difficult trip for both of us, we felt peace as we watched the seagulls fly overhead.At some point, we started walking along the shore, the sea foam tugging at our feet in the sand, seemingly calling us into the ocean’s embrace. Being able to connect with my husband in such a calming environment felt as if we were solely focusing on our wellness that morning.

I realized, as we eventually resumed our spot in the sand, that being able to slow down is a gift. Being a military spouse can sometimes feel like we have no control over many parts of our lives. But, watching the rolling waves take their time to make it ashore felt like a reminder that life takes time, and sometimes all we can do is ride the wave home. This reminder served as a mental reset for me, and in those moments, I wished I could share it with the entire military family community.

The Emotional Weight of Military Life

Military spouses and family members alike carry a great deal of silent weight on their shoulders. From spouses being without their partner for long periods of time to service members missing their family’s important milestones, the mental weight that comes with this life can be heartbreaking.

In the military family community, we tend to offer the most support to the children and the service members. While they are an important part of the community and deserve the support they receive, sometimes spouses are overlooked. Military family support is crucial for the overall well-being and mental health of all military family members.

The Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA) is a great example of providing support to military families, including military spouses. By offering educational programs for children, hosting community events, providing nutritional assistance, and more, ASYMCA promotes comprehensive support for military families and creates a safe space for those who need it.

Reconnect Through the Heroes in the Great Outdoors Giveaway

Silver Strand State Beach National Park brought us clarity and comfort when we needed it most. Now, your family has the chance to experience that same peace in one of America’s greatest wonders.
In honor of the sacrifices military families make every day, ASYMCA is partnering with the National Park Service for the second year in a row to give a heroic military family the chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming!

All active duty junior-enlisted U.S. military families (E-6 and below) are invited to enter the Heroes in the Great Outdoors: Military Family Giveaway. Simply share why your family loves the great outdoors, along with a family photo. The family’s story that receives the most votes will win an all-expenses-paid trip to Grand Teton National Park.

Prioritizing Wellness Through Nature and Rest

My trip to the beach with my husband reminded me that slowing down is not selfish and that we all deserve time to connect with the beautiful earth. Each and every one of us is connected to the earth more than we know, and sometimes, just taking time to connect with it provides what I call nature’s therapy.

You, military spouses and families, are stronger than you know. You accomplish the impossible daily, wherever you may be. You deserve time to connect with your body, your soul, and the earth. Use this as a reminder that self-care is a necessity, and you deserve rest, bonding, and so much more.

If you’re dreaming of family time somewhere quiet and beautiful, this giveaway is for you and all families who do so much and deserve to be recognized. It’s your turn to breathe deep and explore something beautiful.

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