Yoga in Nature: Mindful Movement in Atlanta’s Green Spaces
Move, Breathe, and Be Outdoors
Taking your yoga practice outside may sound simple, but it’s a powerful way to connect with nature and yourself. From Piedmont to Grant Park and the BeltLine, Atlanta’s parks are beautiful and welcoming spots to lay down your mat and tune in to nature.
Why Practice Yoga Outdoors?
Practicing yoga in nature can help you feel more grounded and present. The sounds of wind, birds, and rustling leaves offer a calming backdrop that studios can’t replicate. Plus, it’s a great reminder that wellness doesn’t have to be confined to four walls—sometimes grounding in nature is just what the mind and body needs.
A Community Practice
Many local instructors offer donation-based or free outdoor sessions that center Black wellness and joy. These gatherings are often open to all levels and celebrate community over competition. You don’t need to be “flexible” or experienced—just open to showing up.
What to Bring
A yoga mat or towel, water, and sunscreen are all you need. Some folks prefer to go barefoot to really feel the earth beneath them—this is often called grounding or earthing, which is the practice of connecting your bare feet to the earth. Most outdoor classes take place in the morning or early evening when temperatures are cooler.
Find a Flow That Feels Good
Whether you’re stretching solo or joining a group, yoga outdoors is a chance to breathe deeply, reset, and be fully present. It’s not about perfection—it’s about pausing to care for yourself and connect with nature.
Urban Foraging in Atlanta: Connecting with Nature and Heritage
Rediscover the Land, One Leaf at a Time
Atlanta’s green spaces are full of surprises, especially when you start to look at them through a foraging lens. From winding trails in Cascade Springs Nature Preserve to pockets of greenery along the BeltLine, urban nature has a lot to offer for anyone interested in foraging.
Foraging as a Cultural Practice
For generations, Black communities have relied on the land for food, medicine, knowledge, and connection. Foraging wasn’t just a survival skill—it was a way of life, rooted in tradition and deep respect for nature. Today, more people are reconnecting with these practices as a way to nourish both body and spirit.
What Can You Find in Atlanta?
Common finds include:
- wild onions
- muscadine grapes
- blackberries
- dandelion greens
- and even edible mushrooms! 🍄⚠️
It’s important to note, however, that beginners should stick with expert guidance before harvesting anything, especially fungi. Local parks like Constitution Lakes, the South River Trail, and Arabia Mountain are great starting points for those just starting out and looking for guidance.
Getting Started Safely
If you're new to foraging, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Go with a knowledgeable guide or join a local walk.
- Use a field guide, and always double-check what you’re picking.
- Take only what you need, leave the space better than you found it.
- Be sure you’re in an area where foraging is allowed.
Bringing It All Back Home
Whether you’re gathering wild herbs for tea or learning about edible roots from a community elder, urban foraging is a chance to slow down and reconnect with the land, your heritage, and your environment.
Don’t Hit The Trails Before Reading This
Your Adventure Awaits! Just registered for an exciting hiking trip? Fantastic! To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience, preparation is key. Here's a quick guide to get you ready:
Before You Go: Preparation is Paramount
Fitness Check:
- Assess your current fitness level. If you're new to hiking, start with shorter walks and gradually increase distance and elevation.
- Focus on cardiovascular exercise and leg strength.
Gear Up
- Break in your boots—Don't wait until the trail! Wear your hiking boots on several shorter walks to prevent blisters.
- Check the weather forecast and plan your layers accordingly.
Know the Route
- Familiarize yourself with the trip's itinerary, elevation gain, and trail conditions.
- If possible, research the area and look at trail maps.
Pack Smart
- Create a checklist and start gathering your essentials.
What to Bring: Essential Gear for a Safe Hike
Footwear
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or shoes with good ankle support.
- Moisture-wicking socks to prevent blisters.
Clothing
- Layered clothing: a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating mid-layer (fleece or light down), and a waterproof/windproof outer layer.
- Hiking pants or shorts (depending on weather).
- A hat and gloves or a buff, depending on the weather.
Navigation
- A map and compass (if applicable) or a GPS device/hiking app.
- A fully charged phone (but don't rely on it solely).
Essentials
- A backpack suitable for the length of the hike.
- Plenty of water (hydration is crucial!).
- Snacks and/or lunch (high-energy foods).
- A first-aid kit.
- A headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries).
- Sunscreen and sunglasses.
- A small multi-tool or knife.
- A whistle.
- Trekking poles are very helpful for many hikers.
Pioneering Black Leaders in Portland
Portland, Oregon, a city known for its lush green spaces and vibrant culture, holds a rich and often overlooked history tied to Black pioneers and leaders. While enjoying its natural beauty, visitors can also connect with the significant contributions of the Black community.
Here's a glimpse into that history:
Early Presence:
- Black individuals were present in the Oregon Country from its earliest days, participating in trading expeditions and contributing as skilled laborers.
- It is important to remember that the history of black oregonians, goes back to the earliest explorations of the pacific northwest.
The Albina District
- The Albina District in North and Northeast Portland stands as the historic heart of the city's Black community.
- This area became a center of Black culture, business, and community advocacy, particularly after World War II, when a significant influx of Black workers arrived to support wartime industries.
- It is important to understand that redlining and other racist housing practices, forced many black citizens into the albina district.
Key Figures and Landmarks
- Recognizing the contributions of Black leaders is crucial. For example, Verdell Burdine Rutherford Park, named after a local Black leader, honors her work in advocating for civil rights, including her work towards the Public Accommodations Act of 1953.
- Learning about the history of the Black United Front, and their work in the Portland area, is also very important.
Continuing Legacy
- Today, Portland's Black community continues to shape the city's cultural landscape through art, music, and activism.
- Organizations like The Numberz, work to spotlight Black stories, voices, and music.
By acknowledging and appreciating these connections, you can gain a deeper understanding of Portland's history and the enduring legacy of its Black residents. This enriched perspective adds another layer of meaning to the experience of exploring the city's national parks and landmarks.
Uncovering Arkansas's Black History in National Parks and Landmarks
Arkansas's natural beauty and historical significance are undeniable, drawing visitors from across the globe to its national parks and landmarks. But beyond the scenic vistas and preserved battlefields lies a rich, often overlooked, history of Black pioneers, leaders, and their enduring contributions. Exploring these sites with a deeper understanding of this legacy will enrich your experience and foster a sense of shared pride.
Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site
This iconic landmark isn't just a symbol of the Civil Rights Movement; it's a testament to the courage and resilience of the Little Rock Nine. Their bravery in the face of intense opposition paved the way for desegregation and remains a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality. Visiting the site allows you to walk in their footsteps and understand the profound impact of their actions.
Fort Smith National Historic Site
While known for its frontier history, Fort Smith also holds stories of Black soldiers who served in the U.S. Army after the Civil War. These "Buffalo Soldiers" played a crucial role in maintaining order and protecting the western frontier. Explore the fort's grounds and learn about their contributions to the region's development.
Hot Springs National Park
Though often associated with its therapeutic waters, Hot Springs also has a vibrant Black history. Black entrepreneurs established businesses and contributed to the city's cultural life. Consider researching the history of the Black-owned hotels and bathhouses that once thrived in the area.
Arkansas Post National Memorial
While exploring the historical significance of the Arkansas Post, it is important to remember the enslaved Africans who were brought to the area during the colonial period. Their forced labor shaped the region's early economy and development. Further research into the agricultural history of the area can illuminate this aspect of the past.
By seeking out these stories, you can gain a more complete and nuanced understanding of Arkansas's history. This exploration fosters a sense of shared heritage and encourages continued appreciation for the state's national parks and landmarks. It is essential to remember and honor the contributions of Black Arkansans, ensuring their stories are woven into the fabric of our collective memory.
Trailblazing Women: Honoring Black Women Who Paved the Way in the Outdoors
This International Women’s Month, we’re celebrating Black women who have broken barriers, defied expectations, and paved the way for more inclusive outdoor spaces. From conservationists and mountaineers to environmental activists and outdoor educators, these trailblazers have shaped the way we all connect with nature today.
Their stories inspire us to keep pursuing our mission to change the narrative of who can recreate in the outdoors, re-strengthen Black connections to land, water, and wildlife, and ensure that future generations continue to thrive in the great outdoors.
Sophia Danenberg: Breaking Barriers on Everest
Sophia Danenberg is best known as the first African American and first black woman to climb Mount Everest, the world's tallest mountain.
While she always embraced new experiences and adventures, it wasn’t until 1999 after a friend encouraged her to try rock climbing that Sophia Danenberg became involved in mountaineering. A few short years later in 2002, Danenberg completed her first major climb summiting Mount Rainier.
Between 2002 and 2005, Danenberg continued to scale some of the world's most impressive peaks, including Mt. Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), Mount Denali (Alaska), Mount Tasman (New Zealand), and several others. In 2006, Sophia Danenberg took it to the next level when she summited the 29,000ft climb of Mount Everest, making history as the first Black woman and first African American to summit Mount Everest.
Her achievement shattered stereotypes and opened doors for more Black women in mountaineering. She continues to inspire climbers of all backgrounds to reach new heights.
Audrey Peterman: Champion for Public Lands
Tirelessly working to ensure that national parks and public green spaces are welcoming and accessible to everyone, Audrey Peterman is one of the leading advocates for diversity in public lands.
Born and raised in Jamaica, she was exposed to lush landscapes and the beauty of the outdoors, developing an early appreciation for the inherent connection between people and nature. When she moved to the United States, she was shocked to see a drastic lack of Black representation in national parks and conservation efforts.
Peterman swiftly set out to change the narrative, becoming a fierce advocate for diversity in public lands. She has spent decades traveling to, advocating for, and promoting national parks, speaking out about the need for inclusion, and pushing for policies that make these spaces more welcoming for all communities.
Audrey Peterman’s work has influenced policies and inspired countless others to engage with and protect natural spaces, ensuring that public lands truly belong to everyone.
Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson: Ocean Advocate and Climate Leader
Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson is a biologist, policy expert, writer, and conservation strategist dedicated to protecting our oceans and ensuring environmental justice for coastal communities.
Although Dr. Johnson grew up in Brooklyn, New York, it was her summers spent by the ocean that contributed to her lifelong love for marine life. She later earned a Ph.D. in marine biology, dedicating her career to protecting our oceans.
In 2018, she co-founded the Urban Ocean Lab—an organization that cultivates rigorous, creative, equitable, and practical climate and ocean policy for the future of coastal cities. It’s clear to see that Dr. Johnson is in love with climate solutions
Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson continues to inspire us to take action to protect our planet’s waters and fight for climate solutions that benefit everyone.
Dr. Carolyn Finney: Storyteller and Advocate for Representation
Dr. Carolyn Finney is a storyteller and scholar whose work has challenged mainstream beliefs about race and the environment, and pushed for more diversity in outdoor spaces.
Dr. Finney grew up on a farm in upstate New York, where she developed an early connection to nature. As her passion for nature grew, she noticed that Black narratives were often missing from conversations regarding the environment and outdoor recreation.
Her determination to change this drove her work as a writer, scholar, and cultural geographer studying the intersection between the environment and race. In 2014, she published a book Black Faces, White Spaces, expanding upon her advocacy work and challenging common narratives about who belongs in nature, pushing for greater inclusivity and representation in outdoor spaces.
Dr. Finney’s work continues to reshape the way we think about representation in the outdoors, inspiring deeper conversations about access and belonging.
Celebrating the Women Who Inspire Us
These are just a few of the many Black women who have made lasting contributions to the outdoor world. Their courage, determination, and love for nature continue to inspire new generations to explore, protect, and reclaim outdoor spaces.
This International Women’s Month, we invite you to celebrate the Black women who inspire you. Share their stories, honor their legacy, and join us in making the outdoors a space where everyone belongs.
Outdoor Afro Was Made for This Moment
In times of change, uncertainty, and even exhaustion, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The weight of the world’s challenges—whether social, environmental, or personal—can be relentless. But Outdoor Afro was made for this moment.
We have always been a steady refuge in shifting sands, not just reacting to the moment, but rising above it—rooted in something deeper. For years, Outdoor Afro has served as an oasis organization, not an activist organization. While activism has its role, our work has been about something just as powerful: renewal, restoration, and connection.
A Refuge from Burnout
The pressures of modern life can wear anyone down, and burnout is real—especially for those carrying the work of change, leadership, and community building. But we know that nature is the great reset button, offering space to breathe, to heal, and to remember what truly matters. Stepping outside isn’t just an escape; it’s a return to balance. This is why we exist.
Nature as Common Ground
Outdoor Afro has had many moments over the years—milestones, celebrations, and challenges. Through them all, we have remained a place where people can gather, reset, and find common ground. In nature, divisions fade. Differences become opportunities for learning, not barriers. A shared trail, a river’s edge, or a quiet forest moment reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves.
Gratitude for Our Community
Through every challenge, Outdoor Afro has thrived because of the unwavering support of our partners, volunteers, and participants. Your commitment, passion, and generosity have helped us build a movement that is both joyful and sustaining. No matter how the world changes, this network continues to grow, creating more spaces where people can find peace, strength, and connection.
Moving Forward, Grounded in Nature
This moment—whatever it brings—is exactly what we are built for. Not just to weather the storm, but to provide an enduring place of renewal. Outdoor Afro will continue to be the steady refuge, the bridge across differences, and the reminder that nature is in all of us.
We are grateful for the journey, for this moment, and for the many more to come. Let’s keep going—together.
Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Willie Franklin
At Outdoor Afro, our volunteer leaders play a vital role in shaping their local communities. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Willie Franklin, one of our dedicated Volunteer Leaders, to hear more about his journey with Outdoor Afro. In this Q&A, Willie shares his personal experiences with Outdoor Afro's Volunteer Leadership Program, the impact volunteering has had on him, and why he encourages others to get involved. Here’s what he had to say:
Q: Why did you join the program? What motivated you to become a volunteer leader, and what made you excited about the opportunity?
Willie Franklin, Columbus, Ohio, Midwest region of Outdoor Afro here to tell you about why I joined Outdoor Afro as a volunteer leader and what motivated me to enter into the program. For me, being in the outdoors truly feeds my soul. So to be immersed in a community of people who look like me, who have shared experiences, and sometimes very experiences that look nothing like mine, but it always felt like home every time I peruse the website. So when the opportunity to become a volunteer presented itself, it was a no brainer for me. I had to get involved.
There was so much of me that was already seated within the organization that stepping forward to volunteer as an Outdoor Afro volunteer leader was just a natural step forward. So that's me in a nutshell.
You know, as a volunteer leader, I became excited at the opportunity to not only fully engage with a community that just fed the core of who I am, but to organize people right here in Central Ohio to take part in being nourished by this incredible outdoor joy and to let folks from my community know that they belong here. They belong there. They belong over there. Whether it's fishing, kayaking, skiing, hiking, you name it. Getting outside, returning to the great outdoors, and feeding a portion of their soul is part of their being.
And personally, I think it would be selfish for me not to share that enthusiasm with others.
Q: What was your favorite moment or experience during your time as a volunteer leader? Can you share a specific story or moment that stood out to you and made your experience memorable?
You know, reflecting on one of my favorite moments, in 2024 to enroll or be accepted into the training program for outdoor Afro, volunteer leaders, there was a sense of scarcity, in the community that I grew up as far as black folks in the great outdoors, when in fact there's a huge level of abundance, and it's just a matter of seeking out those individuals. So when I arrive there in Shepherdstown, West Virginia and see this collection of beautiful melanated individuals who look like me and had that same level of passion, how could that not invigorate every ounce of my soul and just feed the need to get outside and fully immerse? So that was definitely a memorable moment as far as my immersion into outdoor Afro.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about applying for the program? How would you encourage others to join and take part in this opportunity?
You know, I've talked to friends and family about Outdoor Afro and shared my delight. And for some, they have been a little hesitant to venture out. So as I attempt to encourage them to take that next step in becoming an Outdoor Afro leader, I just basically ask them what excites them about the great outdoors. You know, what are their favorite memories? And from that, we build into this robust conversation of me listening to them and encouraging them, to recognize the fact that it's so easy to share that joy.
You know, start out with your best bud. Hit the woods. Go for a walk. Go for a fishing trip. Just do something that entails you're getting outside and enjoying what you naturally enjoy.
From there, your community grows. That one person becomes two, leads to four, six, and it goes beyond that. So for me, encouraging people to get out and taking that next step to become a volunteer leader is a matter of asking them what excites them about the great outdoors.
Q: What did you gain as a volunteer leader?
What did I gain? What have I gained as a volunteer leader with Outdoor Afro? Enormous power, power not to let fear be a barrier to getting out and trying new things. I would have never guessed that at 63 years old, I would be attempting to climb a vertical wall, on a climbing road. So, again, it's that sense of power, that sense of empowerment, that can do attitude that has been nourished by my immersion into outdoor Afro.
So for those who have the slightest hesitance, the slightest “I don't know if I can do that,” give it a try. I can guarantee you you will not be disappointed. And when you walk away from that experience, you will know that you made the right step.
You know, the other thing that I gained as a volunteer leader from Outdoor Afro is the sense of confidence that I can lead people, that I can organize outings, that I can create a plan of action, that I can survey areas that I'm totally unfamiliar with, gain confidence in that space. So when I invite others to join me, they have confidence in my ability and trust my ability to lead them, keep them safe, and assist them in exploring and enjoying the great outdoors. So, there's so much to be gained by volunteering an outdoor Afro. It's hard not to enthusiastically talk about it with friends and families and even strangers. So if I had to add anything to my repertoire, it would be carrying outdoor Afro business cards or some little trinket pocket trinket that I can hand to people and say, check out this website.
You're gonna love it. Better yet, join me on the next outing. You're gonna love it.
Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference in your community? The Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Program is more than just an opportunity to explore the outdoors—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and create lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about strengthening connections to nature and leading inclusive outdoor experiences, we want you on this journey with us. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership program and how you can apply, or share this with someone who you believe would make an amazing Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader!
Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Meet Michael Cheek
At Outdoor Afro, our volunteer leaders play a vital role in shaping their local communities. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Michael Cheek, one of our dedicated Volunteer Leaders, to hear more about his journey with Outdoor Afro. In this Q&A, Mike shares his personal experiences with Outdoor Afro's Volunteer Leadership Program, the impact volunteering has had on him, and why he encourages others to get involved. Here’s what he had to say:
Q: Why did you join the program? What motivated you to become a volunteer leader, and what made you excited about the opportunity?
I joined Outdoor Afro as a participant because I was really looking for a community of black people that enjoy getting outside and in nature as much as I do. One of my motivations for becoming a leader was really to help that community grow within the DMV. And one of the things that got me excited about the opportunity was that I would have the opportunity to share with a large group a lot of the outdoor locations and activities in this area specifically that mean so much to me.
Q: What was your favorite moment or experience during your time as a volunteer leader? Can you share a specific story or moment that stood out to you and made your experience memorable?
My favorite moment or favorite experience? It's honestly too hard to narrow down to just one. I've had so many wonderful times outdoors with my Outdoor Afro DMV family. I really just love seeing black people getting outside and connecting with one another in nature. But one thing that has made a lot of my events memorable to me is seeing participants get the opportunity to visit places that they've never been, to do outdoor activities that they've never done, and to learn things that they didn't know.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about applying for the program? How would you encourage others to join and take part in this opportunity?
So, if you're looking to apply to become an Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader, I'd say go for it. Becoming a volunteer leader is an amazing way to both impact and interact with your local community. And the beautiful thing is you can be yourself. Plan the activities that you wanna plan, explore the locations that you wanna explore, and share the knowledge that's meaningful to you. And Outdoor Afro as an organization supports this, and they'll be there to provide you with all the training, tools, and resources that you'll need to be a successful new volunteer leader.
Q: What did you gain as a volunteer leader?
What have I gained as an outdoor Afro volunteer leader? Three things immediately come to mind. Number one, I've gained confidence in my ability to lead and my leadership skills. Number two, I've further developed and strengthened my planning and organizational skills. And number three, which is the most important to me, I've gained a community of people that's like a second family to me.
So thank you, Outdoor Afro.
Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference in your community? The Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Program is more than just an opportunity to explore the outdoors—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and create lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about strengthening connections to nature and leading inclusive outdoor experiences, we want you on this journey with us. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership program and how you can apply, or share this with someone who you believe would make an amazing Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader!
Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Spotlight: Meet Dr. Wednesday Jones
At Outdoor Afro, our volunteer leaders play a vital role in shaping their local communities. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Wednesday Jones, one of our dedicated Volunteer Leaders, to hear more about her journey with Outdoor Afro. In this Q&A, Dr. Jones shares her personal experiences with Outdoor Afro's Volunteer Leadership Program, the impact volunteering has had on her, and why she encourages others to get involved. Here’s what she had to say:
Q: Why did you join the program? What motivated you to become a volunteer leader, and what made you excited about the opportunity?
I wanted to come on here real quick and kinda talk to you about Outdoor Afro, why I decided to join, more importantly, why I decided to become a leader. And it is real simple for me. Okay? I love the outdoors.
For those of you that know, when you're out there hiking, when you're out there camping, not too many people that look like us. Right? So [when] I found out about Outdoor Afro, I went on my first hike, and I was hooked. I could not believe it! I am out here in nature with people who look like me.
So when I found out that they had a leadership program, that was a no brainer for me. Because how could I not? How could I not share this wonderful experience that I got to enjoy. I'm in my first year. I am still excited.I hope you have an opportunity to join as well.
Q: What was your favorite moment or experience during your time as a volunteer leader? Can you share a specific story or moment that stood out to you and made your experience memorable?
Let me talk to you about one of my favorite moments as an outdoor Afro leader. I was up at Shenandoah National Park — one of my favorite all time parks — doing Doyle's River hike. It is beautiful.
A young lady that I'm hiking with, she turns to me and she says that Outdoor Afro saved her life. She's sharing some intimate details with me about the pandemic and how it was a dark time for [her], but she was able to get outdoors in nature. It was therapeutic for her, and it just kinda helped her through those times.
So to be a part of that, and know that I'm out here making a difference in people's lives—that will always stick with me. I'm hoping I'm able to do that a thousand times over, but that's one of my favorite moments.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about applying for the program? How would you encourage others to join and take part in this opportunity?
I'm gonna talk to you a little bit about OALT. That is our annual summit training—we all kinda come together as leaders.
Now when I tell you ain't nothing but melanin out there in nature, it is a beautiful thing. This is my first year. So I get there, and they are teaching me about how to host events, map compassing classes, camping, you name it! We have guest speakers about different things in nature, exposing me to so much.
So if you are thinking about becoming a leader, I tell you, it will open up a world in nature that you never even thought about. And the most beautiful thing is we are doing it with each other.
Q: What did you gain as a volunteer leader?
I gained a network. I don't care where I'm at—whether I'm in Jersey, whether I'm in North Carolina, whether I'm in Washington state, whether I'm in Arizona—I can pick up the phone and be like, “I'm in your city.” Whether it is a network of leaders, a network of participants, every day it grows.
And I have gained a village. I have gained a village [where] we can just say, “Hey, let's just go for a hike on Saturday or Sunday,” or if I'm in someone's city say, “Hey, let's put an event together.”
That is what I have gained; I have gained a village and it continues to grow every day. I hope to see you, too.
Are you ready to lead, inspire, and make a difference in your community? The Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader Program is more than just an opportunity to explore the outdoors—it’s a chance to grow, connect, and create lasting impact.
If you’re passionate about strengthening connections to nature and leading inclusive outdoor experiences, we want you on this journey with us. Learn more about our Volunteer Leadership program and how you can apply, or share this with someone who you believe would make an amazing Outdoor Afro Volunteer Leader!