METRO PEOPLE: HOBIE LONG ON ACHIEVING HOLISTIC WELLNESS
“Mental health is the foundation of our quality of life. It determines the strength of the relationship we have with ourselves and others. ”
Hobie Long has made it a life project to teach others the importance and benefits of working on all aspects of health (Holistic Wellness).
Finding time for self care can be difficult, but it’s crucial in our busy world. From physical to mental health, there are multiple facets in creating a healthy lifestyle. Spiritual and emotional health play an important role in our overall well-being.
Prior to his journey into meditation and health, Long worked in the commercial software industry for 10 years. He yearned for more balance in his life, and set out on a journey that not only bettered himself, but the lives of others as well.
Long developed a passion for all things meditation and created a program, based off the Chakra System, designed to help people find clarity and peace of mind. As a well versed health guru, he has various credentials pertaining to the wellness field. Long is a Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach with the National Academy of Sports Medicine, RYT 200 Hour Yoga Teacher, Certified Level 1 Swim Coach with U.S. Masters, Certified Chopra Meditation Teacher, Certified Breathwork Coach with XPT, and a LifeLine Suicide Counselor with The Trevor Project.
Blending his previous career in software and current work in the mental health field, Long created an app. The “Hobie Long Mental Health” app is a free resource geared towards adolescents and young adults. Long says, “The app is a response to the increasing reports of youth depression and mental health issues, as highlighted by the National Institute of Mental Health and the Surgeon General.” Studies have shown that meditation has proven clinical benefits for mental health including an increase in sleep, focus, and mood, along with improved brain function, immune system strength, and healthy aging.
METRO recently had an opportunity to discuss mental health and why it is so important for today’s teens.
METRO: What is so important about protecting our mental health?
Hobie Long: Mental health is the foundation of our quality of life. It determines the strength of the relationship we have with ourselves and others. Due to outside influences like social media competing for our attention, we now must be proactive with our mental, emotional, and spiritual health to achieve holistic wellness.
METRO: What was your inspiration for creating the app?
Hobie Long: My inspiration for making the Hobie Long Meditation app comes from my work as a LifeLine Suicide counselor with the Trevor Project. I listened to the mental health and wellness needs of the young people calling in times of crisis for support. I combined this with my own experience as a young adult in my teen years struggling with anxiety and depression.
METRO: Any fun plans for the holiday season?
Hobie Long: Spend time with family, friends, and pets and take time to enjoy this beautiful place we call home here in Tampa Bay.
METRO: What are some of your favorite places in Tampa Bay?
Hobie Long: The Edition Tampa, Northshore Pool, The Morean Art Center, Crunch Gym NE St. Pete, ro Hyde Park, and Paradeco Coffee Roasters
METRO: What are your goals for 2024?
Hobie Long: My two goals for 2024 are to help as many people as possible find clarity and peace of mind through the power of the Chakra System, and get married to my partner, Rhett.
— By Evan Parag