Information provided by JMM Dance Co. Lea este artículo en español aquí.
Local Author & Dance Educator debuts healing-focused journal for youth. “My Emotions Dance Journal” invites kids to move through grief, big feelings, and self-discovery.
Veronica Vasquez, a Hollister-based nonprofit leader, dance educator, and wellness coach, is launching her debut book, My Emotions Dance Journal—a guided, movement-based journal created to help children and teens express, understand, and regulate their emotions.
“This journal was born from grief,” said Vasquez. “I needed a way to honor my dad while also creating something that makes emotional expression more accessible for young people—something that helps them feel safe, seen, and supported.”
The project is deeply personal. After the passing of her father, Juan Vasquez, a respected therapist and 30-year mental health professional with Santa Clara County, Veronica turned to the practices that had always grounded her: writing and movement. What began as a healing tool for herself became a resource for the next generation—particularly kids navigating trauma, loss, and big emotions in a world that often asks them to stay quiet.
Blending trauma-informed practices, social-emotional learning (SEL), and expressive movement, My Emotions Dance Journal features thoughtful prompts and physical exercises that help children move through feelings like sadness, anger, anxiety, and joy.
While the book stands on its own, it naturally aligns with the mission of JMM Dance Co., the nonprofit Veronica founded in her father’s honor. JMM Dance Co. offers inclusive, healing-centered movement programs for youth across California, with a focus on children with disabilities, trauma histories, or limited access to wellness services.
Proceeds from journal sales directly support JMM Dance Co.’s community programs, allowing more children and families to access free and low-cost emotional wellness classes, school-based residencies, and trauma-informed movement workshops.
“This isn’t about promoting a brand—it’s about creating tools and spaces for healing. JMM is how I carry my father’s legacy forward,” said Vasquez.
Where to Find the Book: Barnes & Noble, Amazon, BookBaby
Launch Events – Free & Open to the Public
Hills Bookstore – Hollister.
Saturday, August 30 | 11:00 a.m.
Free movement class, author reading, and journal signing
Barnes & Noble – Gilroy.
Saturday, September 6 | 12:00 p.m.
A family-friendly “Meet the Author & Movement Experience” with drop-in journaling, wellness activities, and book signings “We heal in motion. We grow when we are seen,” said Vasquez. “This journal gives kids permission to feel—and move—through their stories.”
Upcoming Speaker Series: Building Inclusive Communities:
In September, JMM Dance Co. will launch a free speaker series designed to support those who care for children—therapists, educators, guardians, and court-appointed advocates. The first session explores how movement and journaling can be used to help youth process trauma, family transitions, and identity.
First Session:
Wednesday, September 24, 2025 | 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Topic: Understanding and Supporting a Child’s Emotional World
Register Here