Corona Del Mar’s newly opened Wellness Space, dubbed the King’s Cove, is located in rooms 228 & 229. Instantly soothing in nautical colors and beach-inspired decor, King’s Cove may be the least overstimulating place in the whole school. Essential oils mist the air and a variety of seating options are scattered throughout the space, from cushy bean bags to a cream-colored egg chair from which to interact with the variety of sensory activities or enjoy the light of the rose-colored sun lamp.

Aimed to give students a five to fifteen minute break from the stress and constant movement of a day in high school, King’s Cove aims to destigmatize prioritizing mental health on campus. Jessica DeWilde, CdM’s resident social worker, explains the process. First, you ensure the space is open using the schedule on each classroom’s door. Then, students in class obtain a pass from their teacher, and check into King’s Cove using the QR codes. From there, they can choose to engage in sensory projects, talk to an adult, or even just appreciate the quiet for a few minutes. There are numerous activities to try, from journaling to kinetic sand, and writing thankfulness lists to playing with fidgets. DeWilde tells us that the goal is to accommodate all students in what they need that day, to help them “recharge, regroup, recenter; whatever that looks like for [them].”

According to the World Health Organization, one-in-seven teenagers experience mental health issues. Though part of King’s Cove’s mission is to assist those struggling with their mental health, it’s not just for them. The Wellness Space has been built to help anyone, even if it’s just someone having an off day. Sitting and soaking in the ambience of the Wellness Space as she spoke, Addie Briggeman, a senior and member of ASB’s Wellness Committee, says she hopes there’s no stigma around wanting or needing to come through King’s Cove. “You can come here for a variety of reasons, as opposed to strictly needing help.” Brookie Hahne, another member of the ASB Wellness committee, agreed, and informed Trident that her favorite thing in the Wellness Space was its collection of stuffed animals.

“Humans aren’t machines,” DeWilde reassures. “The idea that we should just be able to function at 100% all the time is just not realistic and I’m really appreciative that schools now are honoring that… We all need five to ten minutes sometimes. And that’s okay.”