Celebrating International Yoga Day with Decatur Parks & Recreation

June 21, 2024 Leave a comment

Happy International Yoga Day!

Every year on June 21st, people around the globe roll out their mats to celebrate International Yoga Day. Established by the United Nations in 2014, this special day aims to raise awareness about the many benefits of practicing yoga. Yoga, an ancient physical, mental, and spiritual practice that originated in India, has evolved into a worldwide phenomenon that transcends borders and cultures.

The Origins of International Yoga Day

The proposal for International Yoga Day was first introduced by India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, during his address to the UN General Assembly in 2014. He described yoga as an “invaluable gift of India’s ancient tradition” and emphasized its holistic approach to health and well-being. The resolution received overwhelming support from 177 nations, highlighting the global appreciation of yoga’s benefits.

At Decatur Parks & Recreation, we offer diverse yoga classes for all ages and skill levels. Join us to experience the joy and benefits of yoga firsthand:

Deep Stretch at Decatur Recreation Center
Balance and relax your body and mind with yoga poses held for longer periods. Suitable for all levels. Bring a mat and a yoga blanket or large towel.

  • Day: Thursdays
  • Time: 10 a.m.
  • Instructor: Cheryl Burnette

Slow Flow at Decatur Recreation Center
Start your day with gentle flowing sequences that link movement to breath, focusing on alignment, flexibility, and balance. Bring a yoga mat.

  • Day: Tuesdays
  • Time: 10 a.m.
  • Instructor: Cheryl Burnette

Kids Yoga at Ebster Recreation Center
Playful poses, mindfulness games, and strategies to self-regulate. Campers will learn a variety of yoga postures, meditation tools, and breath techniques.

Evening Flow at Oakhurst Recreation Center
Relax and rejuvenate with gentle stretches and soothing poses, suitable for all levels. Enhance your breath and movement connection in this peaceful evening session.

  • Day: Mondays
  • Time: 6:30 p.m.

Why Celebrate Yoga?

Yoga is more than just a series of physical exercises; it’s a practice that harmonizes the body, mind, and spirit. Here are a few reasons why yoga is celebrated worldwide:

  1. Physical Health Benefits: Regular yoga practice improves flexibility, strength, and balance. It also enhances respiratory function, cardiovascular health, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
  2. Mental Well-being: Yoga is known for its stress-relieving properties. It helps reduce anxiety, depression, and promotes a sense of inner peace and calm.
  3. Spiritual Growth: Yoga encourages self-awareness and mindfulness. It fosters a connection between the individual and the universe, leading to a sense of oneness and fulfillment.
  4. Community Building: Yoga brings people together, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Group yoga sessions and events create bonds among practitioners, promoting social harmony.

Celebrate International Yoga Day by embracing a practice that promotes well-being, tranquility, and community. Join one of our classes from Decatur Parks & Recreation and start your journey to a healthier, happier you! Namaste.

Filed under Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Exercise, Oakhurst Recreation Center, Yoga Tagged with ,

Juneteenth in Decatur

June 17, 2024 Leave a comment

Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates June 19th, 1865, when the enslaved people of Galveston, Texas, finally learned about their freedom. This momentous occasion came more than two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, highlighting the deep-rooted racism in the country as the South attempted to hold onto slavery long past its date of abolition. Juneteenth is celebrated to honor and remember a past that has often been erased and to connect that past to our ongoing efforts towards liberty and justice for all.

Traditionally, African American families celebrate Juneteenth with family gatherings, cookouts, and parades, focusing on the connections of family and community.

Celebrations in Decatur: The Praise House Project

In Decatur, celebrations include the Praise House Project, located on the greenspace at Commerce Drive and West Trinity Place. The Praise House Project is a community-based initiative by visual artist Charmaine Minniefield, featuring multimedia, site-specific public art installations that honor the African American histories of various areas.

In honor of Juneteenth, on June 23rd from 6-9 pm, The Praise House Project will partner with Historic Lilly Hill Baptist Church to celebrate the African American history of Beacon Hill and its legacy as a Freedman’s town in Downtown Decatur.

Extended interior viewing hours of the Praise House will be from 3-6 pm at 346 W. Trinity Place, Decatur, GA 30030. At 6 pm, a drum procession led by Giwayen Mata, an all-sistas African drumming, dance, and vocal ensemble, will guide attendees from Lilly Hill to the Praise House for a Juneteenth Family Reunion gathering on the lawn, featuring music by DJ Cozy Shawn.

Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and baskets with plenty to share with their neighbors for a potluck Family Dinner from 6-9 pm. Limited chairs and tables will be provided for the elders. The evening will conclude at sunset with an exterior projection onto the Praise House, making the structure glow with Beacon Hill history, led by digital media artist Kimberly Binns from 8-9 pm.

Join us in celebrating Juneteenth and honoring the rich history and enduring spirit of the African American community.

For more information visit: praisehouseproject.org

Filed under Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation Tagged with ,

Update on McKoy Pool Status

June 14, 2024 Leave a comment

The pool has not yet opened for the summer. As we were preparing McKoy Pool for the season, we repaired the expansion joints (allowing the pool to expand in hot weather), pressure washed the pool, completed the mechanical inspection and service of the equipment, and filled the pool. However, we discovered that the pool was losing water. A leak detection company thoroughly inspected the pool and identified the leak in the main drain.

The next step is to complete a pressure test and run a camera in the pipe to determine the severity of the leak. Once we have their report, we will be able to provide more information on whether this is a problem that can be fixed quickly or a capital project that will require more extensive work.

We apologize for the inconvenience. Please visit decaturga.com/aquatics for updates and for operating hours for Ebster, Glenlake and Oakhurst pools.

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation

Adventure Begins at Your Library!

June 7, 2024 Leave a comment

The Decatur Library Youth Summer Reading Program for 2024 is underway! This year’s theme, “Adventure Begins at Your Library,” encourages kids to explore new worlds through stories. Each child can sign up to track their reading over the summer and win prizes along the way. The library offers scavenger hunts with prizes, badges to be earned, and plenty of fun activities to keep kids engaged. It’s a great way to nurture a love of reading and keep your kids entertained during the summer break. Adults can also participate, play bingo, and win prizes!

Additionally, Scott Park, located right next to the library, is an excellent place for kids to read and play. Reading outside has been shown to lower cortisol levels and increase self-esteem for all ages. Spending time in the fresh air and sunlight helps regulate circadian rhythms, ensuring good sleep and high energy levels. Enjoying a good book outdoors is a low-stress, relaxing activity that provides these benefits. So grab a book and head to your favorite park to enjoy a reading adventure!

Filed under Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center

Celebrate Global Running Day – June 5, 2024!

June 5, 2024 Leave a comment

Get pumped and get those legs moving because the first Wednesday in June is Global Running Day—on June 5 this year. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a novice, this holiday is about inspiring each other to lead a more active lifestyle, no matter the distance covered. This celebration is open and free to everyone. Simply grab your running shoes, a bottle of water, and get moving!

The History of Global Running Day

Global Running Day began in the United States in 2009, initially known as National Running Day. The inaugural Global Running Day was held on June 1, 2016. On that day, over 2.5 million runners from 177 different countries participated, collectively running an estimated 9.2 million miles.

The Purpose of Global Running Day

This day aims to get everyone moving and more active, championing not just the physical health benefits of running but also the mental health benefits. Running can reduce anxiety, boost your mood, and improve overall mental well-being. Global Running Day encourages people to run more and lead more active lifestyles. While the day centers around running, it includes any form of movement—walking your dog, racing with your kids, or participating in marathons.

How to Participate

There are no time-honored traditions for this relatively new holiday, but as long as you are running and having fun, you’re doing it right! Here are a few ideas to get involved:

Solo Run: Take a solo run in your neighborhood or on a favorite trail. Enjoy the peace and focus on your personal best.

Group Run: Gather friends, family, or colleagues for a group run. It’s a great way to socialize while staying active.

Virtual Run: Join a virtual running event where you can track your progress and compare it with others worldwide.

Family Fun: Make it a family event by running with your kids, walking the dog, or having a fun race in the park.

Community Events: Check out local events or running clubs hosting special runs on Global Running Day.

Fleet Feet Decatur

Join our friends at Fleet Feet Decatur for their social runs and celebrate the spirit of Global Running Day with fellow enthusiasts. Fleet Feet offers a welcoming environment for runners of all levels, providing an opportunity to meet new people and stay motivated.

Couch to 5K Program

Keep an eye out for our Couch to 5K program starting back up September 9, 2024. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to rekindle your passion for running, this program is designed to guide you from the couch to crossing the finish line of a 5K race. Our structured program takes you through a gradual progression, ensuring that you build strength, endurance, and confidence step by step. We understand that starting a running journey can be intimidating, which is why our program focuses on making the process enjoyable and achievable.

Embrace a Healthier Lifestyle

Global Running Day is a fantastic opportunity to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle. Whether you’re an avid runner or just starting, this day is for you. Lace up your running shoes, grab some water, and hit the pavement. Remember, it’s not about how far or how fast you go—it’s about getting out there and having fun. Let’s make this Global Running Day the best one yet!

Filed under Adult Sports, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Walk Decatur Tagged with ,

Dive Into Summer: City of Decatur Pools Opening This Saturday!

May 23, 2024 Leave a comment

Summer is fast approaching, and we’re thrilled to announce that City of Decatur pools are opening this Saturday! Whether you’re looking to cool off or enjoy some fun in the sun, our pools are the perfect spot. For unlimited access, consider getting a pool pass for the season.

Important Update

Unfortunately, due to a mechanical issue, McKoy Pool will not be opening on Memorial Day Weekend 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience and will keep you updated on the status of repairs.

Pool Admission

Our pools cater to swimmers of all ages. Below are our admission fees for different age groups. Starting in the 2024 season, we will only accept cashless forms of payment. If you do not have access to a cashless method, we will accept exact change.

AgeResident Fee (with card)Non-Resident Fee
1 and youngerFree$4
2-13$4$6
14-64$6$8
65+Free$6

Digital Resident Cards

Resident cards are going digital! To receive the resident rate, all patrons must be verified in CommunityPass as City of Decatur residents. Bring a government-issued ID and proof of residency (lease agreement, closing statement, or utility bill) to any of our four centers: Decatur Recreation Center, Ebster Recreation Center, Oakhurst Recreation Center, or Glenlake Tennis Center. Physical resident cards will no longer be accepted.

If you’re already receiving resident rates for other activities, you’re verified in CommunityPass! Download a digital resident card to your smartphone or pick up a key FOB at any of our centers. Add the digital resident card to your smartphone wallet by signing into CommunityPass, selecting the appropriate resident card, and completing the transaction. You’ll receive a scan card via email for easy smartphone scanning.

Season Swim Passes

We offer convenient season swim passes for individuals and families. Once verified, you can purchase your season pass online through CommunityPass or at any of our centers. Passes are not available at the pool counters and are valid only at outdoor pool locations.

CategoryResident FeeNon-Resident Fee
Individual (2-13 years)$50$100
Individual (14-64 years)$75$150
Individual (65+ years)Free$100
Household (5 or fewer)$225*$450**
*Add $20 each additional member
**Add $40 each additional member

Swim Lessons

Dynamo Swim School will offer outdoor swim lessons at City of Decatur pools this summer:

  • Glenlake Pool: June 10 – 20, 9:00am – 10:00am
  • Ebster Pool: July 24 – August 11 (no class on July 4), 10:00am – 11:00am
  • McKoy Pool: July 15 – 25, 10:00am – 11:00am

Visit Dynamo Swim School’s website for registration information.

For more info on City of Decatur pools and how to get your pass, check the Aquatics page on our website. Don’t miss out on the best place to stay cool this summer!

Filed under Aquatics, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Glenlake Pool Tagged with , ,

3 Chair Yoga Poses For All Fitness Levels this Monday

May 20, 2024 Leave a comment

Chair Yoga Poses to Start Your Week

Yoga is relaxing. Plus, it helps stave off stress and anxiety, builds strength, improves cardiovascular health, and curbs low-back pain. Start your week moving with some chair yoga poses on Monday.

Adaptable to all fitness levels, anyone can do yoga. In a typical workday, it’s normal for tension to build up in your shoulders, neck, and back. Doing a few simple yoga moves can help relieve built-up tension. Chair yoga can reduce the strain and stress on your joints, can be done in the office or at home, and is highly adjustable for all the poses.

A few chair yoga poses to get you started:

Cow pose

Sitting in a chair without wheels, align your feet with your knees, place your hands on your knees, and sit upright. Then, gently flex your belly and move it forward, naturally rocking your hips forward, without moving the position of your head. This yoga pose relieves lower back and sciatica pain.

Cat pose

Sitting in a chair without wheels, align your feet with your knees, place your hands on your knees and sit upright. Without moving your hips or shifting in the chair, curl your head forward until you’re looking down, then your shoulders, and finally round your back. Think of a cat making a big stretch after waking up from a nap. This pose strengthens the spine.

Side angle

Sitting in a chair without wheels, bend over and place your right palm on the floor, outside your left foot. Extend your left arm up to the heavens. Turn your head to follow your left arm, to gaze at your left hand. Take a moment to feel the stretch, then do the opposite side. Place your left palm on the floor, outside your right foot. Extend your right arm up and follow it with your gaze to the right hand.  This pose improves the flexibility of your spine.

Synchronizing the breath with the asana allows you to stretch for longer plus reap the benefits of breathing: relaxation, calmness, tranquility, and a slower heart rate. You can destress and keep moving at the same time.

Filed under Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Healthy Monday, Monday Campaigns, Yoga Tagged with ,

Three Simple Steps for Mindful Walking On Monday

May 13, 2024 Leave a comment

Make Monday an occasion to try some mindful walking when you need to de-stress for a few minutes between activities.

Any style of mindfulness is a robust antidote to stress. Mindfulness engages your normal powers of awareness and is something you can do anytime, anywhere. Here are some steps to follow for a short and easy session of mindful walking:

  1. Pick a time in your daily routine to practice mindful walking for at least five minutes.
  2. Concentrate on the physical sensations of walking – the sights, sounds, and feelings of each step.
  3. If your mind wanders, gently return your focus by repeating “left, right” as you walk.

As you walk, pay attention to the physical experience of walking. Bring your attention to your feet, noticing the sensations of walking itself. Witness the heel, ball, and toe of each foot as it makes contact, over and over, in every step. Bring your attention to the breath and the rhythm of your stride.

Mindful walking is a form of mindfulness, which is a way to focus on the present and not get caught up in thoughts of the past or worries about the future, giving you a greater sense of well-being and relaxation. This naturally slows down your heart rate and lowers your blood pressure. Its benefits include: stress reduction, reduced rumination, and increased focus.

This Monday, no matter where you’re going or how fast you’re walking, use this tip to de-stress and slow down, yet keep moving.

Filed under Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Healthy Monday, Monday Campaigns, Walk Decatur Tagged with ,

Power Up Your Fitness this Monday with Group Activities

May 6, 2024 Leave a comment

Planks, jumping jacks, mountain climbers – when you do them together it can be more fun, more challenging, and science says, better for you. Build a routine on Monday with some fresh ideas for group fitness.

Need some ideas to get motivated?

  • Group Challenges – We’ve got five great group challenges to share. Do some jabs or high knees with your colleagues this Monday – it will bring you together and be a collective stress buster. Pow! It’s much better than an office water cooler.
  • Friends & Family – Get a friend or family member and schedule regular times to meet at the gym, work out at a nearby park, or follow along to a fitness routine in your living room. Even 30 minutes a few times a week will make a difference.
  • Take a Class – cardio, Tango, Zumba, strength training, swimming, yoga, Pilates, spin – the list of classes offered at a neighborhood gym or community center will surprise you. A good instructor will have a following and be a cheerleader, able to get everyone in the mood to stretch their limits, together.

In a study comparing results from group fitness and individual fitness, group exercise participants made greater improvements in all areas, including stress reduction.

Filed under Decatur Parks & Recreation

Celebrating Earth Day!

April 22, 2024 Leave a comment

Earth Day is a global event celebrated annually on April 22nd to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It serves as a reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and the need to address pressing issues such as climate change, pollution, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity. Earth Day provides an opportunity to raise awareness, inspire activism, and advocate for policies and practices that promote sustainability and conservation.

This past weekend, we had a fantastic time celebrating the Earth and alternative transportation in the City of Decatur. On Saturday, April 20th, members of the community, along with the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC), City Manager Andrea Arnold, Capital Projects Manager Hugh Saxon, Mayor Patti Garrett, Mayor Pro Tem Tony Powers, and Parks and Recreation Director Greg White, gathered to cut the ribbon and officially celebrate the new cycle track built throughout the streets of Decatur. We’re thrilled to have dedicated bike lanes as we continue our commitment to being the most bike-friendly city in Georgia. As the only Silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community in the state, Decatur’s dedication to enhancing cycling infrastructure shines brightly.

Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, we headed to the square to celebrate Earth Day with what the City of Decatur does best, a festival! The Earth Day Festival presented by the City of Decatur’s Environmental Sustainability Board and Park and Recreation Department was filled with community spirit, environmental awareness, and fun activities for all ages! The day kicked off with performances by the Atlanta Conundrums and Capoeira Maculelê, followed by inspiring words from Mayor Garrett about Decatur’s commitment to environmental awareness and sustainability. We also had the honor of congratulating our City Arborist, Kay Evanovich, who was named the Georgia Arborist Association’s 2023 Arborist of the Year!

Throughout the festival, the Quincy Carter Foundation presented scholarships to local area teens, and we enjoyed tunes from DJ K-KAT, one of our talented second graders and Animal Crackers participant.

Here are some additional ways to celebrate Earth Day today and throughout the year:

  1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimize waste and conserve resources by practicing the three Rs – reduce, reuse, and recycle.
  2. Plant Trees: Participate in tree-planting initiatives to improve air quality and provide habitat for wildlife.
  3. Clean up the Environment: Organize or participate in neighborhood clean-up events to protect wildlife and prevent pollution.
  4. Support Sustainable Practices: Choose eco-friendly products and support businesses that prioritize sustainability.
  5. Educate and Advocate: Spread awareness about environmental issues and support organizations working to protect the planet.

Earth Day is a time to reflect on our relationship with the environment and take meaningful steps to protect it for future generations. Let’s work together to make every day Earth Day!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Greenspaces, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Parks & Recreation Board Tagged with , , ,

← Older posts

Newer posts →