by Andra B. Greene and Kelly L. Galligan

As lawyers, we understand the unique pressures and demands that come with our profession. The pursuit of excellence and the responsibility of serving our clients often leads to long hours, high stress, and little personal time. This is where the Lawyer Well-Being Committee steps in. Our mission is to promote wellness and balance within the legal community, recognizing that a healthy attorney is more effective, productive, and fulfilled. Embracing well-being is not just about preventing burnout; it’s about thriving in our personal and professional lives.

Summer is the perfect time to take a step back, recharge, and engage in activities that enhance our physical, mental, and emotional health. Our Committee has curated a list of fifteen fun and dynamic activities in Orange County designed to help you make the most of the season while prioritizing your well-being. So, let’s dive in and explore the opportunities this summer offers to reenergize and reconnect.
1. Yoga in the Park. Join the OCBA Lawyer Well-Being Committee and Mommy Esquire for a rejuvenating yoga session in the park on Saturday, July 6, in Corona del Mar’s Begonia Park. Yoga is a wonderful way to reduce stress, improve flexibility, and practice mindfulness. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a beginner, this event is a great opportunity to connect with colleagues while finding your zen.
2. Visit the OC Fair. Spend a fun-filled day at the Orange County Fair in Costa Mesa. The fair offers a variety of activities, including thrilling rides, engaging games, live entertainment, and a plethora of delicious food options. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some quality time with family and friends. For extra fun, bring a child with you and experience their joy at the fair.
3. Volunteer With the Community Outreach Committee. Giving back to the community is a rewarding experience that also boosts your well-being. Check the OCBA website (OCBAR.org) for volunteer opportunities such as beach cleanups, food drives, and other community service events. Volunteering not only helps others but also provides a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
4. Run (or Walk) a Marathon or Enter a Race. Challenge yourself by participating in local races such as the Surf City Marathon. Running is an excellent way to set fitness goals, stay motivated, and improve your overall health. Whether you’re running a full marathon or walking a 5K, the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel crossing the finish line is unparalleled.
5. Visit the Balboa Fun Zone. Relive your childhood at the Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach. Enjoy arcade games, boat rides, and the iconic ferris wheel with stunning views of the harbor. It’s a great place to relax and have some fun with family and friends.
6. Attend an OCBA Summer Social. The OCBA and its sections and affiliates host mixers throughout the summer, often moving events outdoors to enjoy the warmer weather. Take a break from work to connect with like-minded individuals, expand your network, and enjoy some fresh air and good company.
7. Visit the Sawdust Art Festival & Pageant of the Masters. Art is good for the soul. Experience the vibrant art scene at the Sawdust Art Festival in Laguna Beach. Additionally, attend the Pageant of the Masters for a unique presentation featuring live reenactments of famous artworks. These events are ideal for art enthusiasts and provide a wonderful cultural escape.
8. Go for a Duffy Ride. Rent a Duffy boat in Newport Beach and cruise around the harbor. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy the water with friends or family, complete with scenic views and fresh sea air. Bring along some snacks and beverages for a delightful time on the water.
9. Hiking. Explore the scenic trails in parks like Crystal Cove State Park, Santiago Oaks Regional Park, or Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, either alone or with friends and fur friends. Hiking is excellent for physical fitness and mental relaxation. Check the OCBA Calendar for hikes coordinated by the Young Lawyers Division or other groups and enjoy the natural beauty of Orange County.
10. Biking. Take a bike ride along the Santa Ana River Trail or the Back Bay Loop Trail in Newport Beach. Biking is an excellent cardiovascular workout and a fantastic way to enjoy nature. Gather some friends or family and make it a group outing for added fun.
11. Beach Time. Nothing beats a day at the beach, and Orange County boasts some of the best beaches in the nation. Visit popular spots such as Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Huntington Beach, or Laguna Beach. Whether you enjoy swimming, surfing, or simply relaxing by the ocean, the beach is a great place to unwind. As the day winds down, gather around a bonfire with friends or family, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves under the stars. The beach offers a perfect blend of relaxation and socializing, making it an ideal spot to recharge and rejuvenate.
12. Sunset Picnic. Pack a healthy meal and enjoy a sunset picnic at beautiful locations like Inspiration Point in Corona del Mar, Laguna Beach, Irvine Regional Park, Mason Regional Park, or Dana Point Harbor. Enjoy the fresh air, beautiful scenery, and a peaceful end to your day.
13. Kayaking/Paddleboarding. Rent a kayak or paddleboard at Newport Harbor or Dana Point Harbor. These activities provide a full-body workout and a serene way to explore the water. It’s a peaceful yet invigorating experience that allows you to connect with nature.
14. Outdoor Concerts and Movies. Attend summer concerts or outdoor movie screenings in parks across Orange County. Events like the Newport Beach Jazz Festival offer a perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy a show under the stars. There are also a variety of outdoor movies, dance lessons, and concerts at Segerstrom Center’s Julianne and George Argyros Plaza.
15. Explore Local Markets. Visit local farmers’ markets, such as the Irvine Farmers Market or the Laguna Beach Farmers Market. These markets offer fresh produce, artisanal goods, and a vibrant atmosphere. Supporting local vendors and enjoying fresh, healthy food is a great way to enhance your well-being.

This summer, let’s make a conscious effort to prioritize our well-being. Embrace the outdoors, try new activities, and connect with the vibrant community around us. Engaging in these experiences not only provides a much-needed break from the daily grind but also contributes significantly to our overall physical and mental health. From yoga in the park to a sunset picnic, every activity offers a unique way to relax, rejuvenate, and rediscover the joy in life. Imagine the sun setting as you lie on a picnic blanket at Inspiration Point, or the thrill of crossing the finish line at the Surf City Marathon. Picture yourself paddling through the serene waters of Newport Harbor, or laughing with friends around a beach bonfire. These moments of joy and relaxation help us reset, allowing us to return to our professional lives with renewed energy and a positive outlook.

Well-being isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. As attorneys, we are often so focused on our clients and cases that we forget to take care of ourselves. The Lawyer Well-Being Committee is dedicated to changing that narrative. By promoting activities that foster physical, mental, and emotional health, we aim to create a legal community that values balance and well-being as much as it does hard work and dedication. Taking time for yourself is not a sign of weakness; it’s a demonstration of strength. It shows that you understand the importance of self-care and are committed to maintaining your health and happiness. So, dust off your yoga mat, lace up your running shoes, or grab your picnic basket. Enjoy your summer, and see you at the next OCBA event!

Andra B. Greene is a mediator, arbitrator, and independent panelist with Phillips ADR Enterprises. When she’s not resolving disputes, you can find her perfecting her downward dog as an enthusiastic yogi or managing her dogs’ Instagram account. Kelly L. Galligan is a mergers and acquisitions partner at Rutan & Tucker. She’s a firm believer in the power of direct morning sunlight and the joy of long, contemplative walks.

Out of Office is an occasional column in which authors share ways to make life meaningful and fulfilling during and outside of the practice of law.