đŸŒ· May Day markets, monthly soul skate, and Kodomo No Hi

Spring is in the air and there's lots happening around the corner - Mother's Day, graduations, and the monthly Soul Skate at Old A's in Kona.

Hello friends!

May is Mental Health Awareness month, and this year’s theme #MoreThanEnough is something we all need to remember:

Even if all you did was wake up today, that’s more than enough.

No matter where you are on your journey — regardless of your diagnosis, appearance, socioeconomic status, background, or ability — you are more than enough.

These words might seem fluffy or uncomfortable when you first start to say or read them, but it’s important to consider the narratives we tell ourselves:

Somewhere along the line, society taught us we need to work hard in order to achieve success and financial security.

And the false narrative that our worth is measured by our productivity creates burnout, stress, and mental health issues. We start feeling less than enough because of these narratives in our head, but the truth is that you are not alone, and you are more than enough.

Access to mental health treatment isn’t easy. Not only can there be a high cost, but there’s still a stigma around mental health issues
 and when you do finally get around to seeking help, you might still wait weeks for an appointment.

A lack of access to mental health services can contribute to outcomes like dropping out of school, going to prison, or even suicide.

So if you know someone who needs your support, being there is #MoreThanEnough. They might even need to hear they are #MoreThanEnough. And whatever you are going through, you are not alone.

Phew, typing got heavy for a second! Before I log off and hug my inner child, hereʻs whatʻs happening on the Big Island this week.

This is by no means an all-encompassing list, but a few ideas of events happening on Hawai’i Island.

May Day Markets (perfect for Mother’s Day shopping)

Food

Entertainment

Family + Community

Comedy

Music

  • Fri May 5: Lucky Tongue Rock & Roll, 7-10:30pm at GertrudeÊ»s Jazz Bar in Kailua-Kona. $10 cover.
  • Sat May 6: Lopaka Rootz, 6:30-9:30pm at Blue Dragon Tavern in Kawaihae. Tix are $12.
  • Sat May 6: Grand Slam RockinÊ», 6-9pm at Lava Lounge at KÄ«lauea Military Camp. Classic rock and blues. $10 cover.
  • Mon May 8: Weekly Jazz Jam, 6-9pm at Kukuau Studio in Hilo.

Volunteer Alert

P.S. Next Wednesday, May 10, Ê»Imiloa is screening the film Hometown Legends, which features five legendary HawaiÊ»i Island kĆ«puna who share their moÊ»olelo of life and how they see it changing in todayÊ»s age. ItÊ»s $5 for non-members at 5-7pm in Hilo. Click here to learn more!