Hidden Gems: Meet Jennifer Nelson & Gracie Moreno of Rise Mindful Healing

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Nelson and Gracie Moreno.

Jennifer Nelson and Gracie Moreno, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

Gracie:
Rise Mindful Healing really began with our friendship. Jennifer and I met over a decade ago when our sons played travel baseball together. At the time, we were just two “baseball moms” navigating busy lives. But over time, hikes and gym sessions turned into something deeper, safe spaces where we opened up about our pasts and our healing journeys. We both came from childhoods shaped by trauma, abandonment, and emotional weight we carried into adulthood.

That connection, of being truly seen and understood, was life-changing. We realized we had been walking parallel paths for years, and that we shared the same longing: to create the kind of space we always wished existed. One that focused on nervous system regulation, emotional well-being, and real, accessible healing.

We had both traveled to find tools that helped us, things like yoga, breathwork, sound healing, red light therapy, but there was nothing like that close to home. And more importantly, when we did find those services, they often felt clinical or overly focused on fitness and aesthetics. They didn’t speak to the emotional weight we knew so many people were carrying.

That’s how Rise was born. We wanted to build a space where people feel safe to slow down, where healing feels approachable and deeply supported.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

Jennifer:
Not even close. Building Rise from the ground up has been one of the most rewarding and challenging things I’ve ever done. The construction process alone was brutal; we faced delays, budget stress, last-minute changes, we were in constant problem-solving mode.

But the emotional strain was just as real. When you’re pouring your heart into something this meaningful, every setback hits deeper. My biggest challenge was staying grounded in the chaos. I leaned heavily on meditation and reminded myself daily of the example I want to set for my kids. That kept me centered.

There were definitely moments where we worried that the stress might impact our friendship, but honestly, it only made our bond stronger. We’ve supported each other through every hard decision, every pivot. What gets us through the tough days is knowing that this space is already having an impact on people’s lives. That makes it all worth it.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Rise Mindful Healing?

Gracie:
Rise is a wellness studio in Old Town Newhall that focuses on nervous system regulation, emotional well-being, and mindful living. We offer a variety of services, from yoga and meditation to breathwork, sound baths, red light therapy, infrared sauna, and therapeutic bodywork.

What really sets us apart is the way we approach wellness. We don’t lead with aesthetics or performance, we lead with care, intention, and emotional depth. Every part of Rise was designed to feel calming and inclusive. Our team is trained to use science-backed practices that support both the body and mind, without pressure or shame.

We hear it all the time people walk in and say, “I’ve never experienced anything like this.” That tells us we’re doing something right. Whether someone’s here for a class, a sauna session, or bodywork, we meet them exactly where they are. Wellness shouldn’t feel intimidating. It should feel like coming home to yourself.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?

Jennifer:
We’ve always been inspired by LA, its creativity, culture, and the way so many spaces are designed to invite rest and self-care. That energy really influenced our vision for Rise.

But our hearts are rooted in Santa Clarita. We love this community and wanted to bring that same elevated, wellness-forward energy here to Old Town Newhall. Our building still has its original frontage and arched windows to honor the history, but the inside is intentionally designed to feel fresh, peaceful, and modern, like something you’d expect to find in LA or by the beach.

If there’s one thing we’d love to see more of in our city, it’s intentional gathering spaces. We hope Rise helps fill that need—a place where people can slow down, connect, and prioritize their mental and emotional health, just as much as their physical wellness.

Pricing:

• Wellness Classes, Red Light Therapy & Infrared Sauna Sessions starting at $25
• Custom Bodywork starting at $120

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.risemindfulhealing.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rise_mindful_healing/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Rise-Mindful-Healing-61553079792661/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rise-mindful-healing-santa-clarita

Image Credits
Photography by Nicole Martinez /nicolemartinez.co