Metro Atlanta Cities Wellbeing Initiative

August 8, 2024 by Leave a comment

The City of Decatur is committed to fostering a community where every resident can thrive. That’s why we were proud to participate in the Metro Atlanta Cities Wellbeing Initiative, alongside other esteemed community leaders.

Participants from the City of Decatur included Mayor Patti Garrett, Clarity Fitness owner Abbey Griffith, Fire Captain Gary Menard, and Parks and Recreation Center Supervisor Jada Jordan. Together, they engaged in impactful discussions aimed at enhancing our understanding of wellbeing and informing policy action through data-driven insights.

Facilitated by ARCHI (Atlanta Regional Collaborative for Health Improvement), GMA (Georgia Municipal Association), and AWP (Athens Wellbeing Project), this initiative provided a platform for city leaders to delve into critical topics related to community wellbeing.

The initiative unfolded over eight months, encompassing various aspects of wellbeing-related issues. The first half focused on didactic sessions led by subject matter experts, covering topics such as stewardship, social determinants of health, health equity, systems thinking, and peer learning.

In the second half, participants applied their learnings to develop policy action plans, guided by the CDC’s policy process. They utilized a wellbeing glossary and metric factsheets developed by MACWI to create these plans, emphasizing data-driven decision-making.

Our participation in the Metro Atlanta Cities Wellbeing Initiative underscores our commitment to leveraging data and collaborative efforts to drive positive change in our community. We believe that by engaging in initiatives like this, we can better understand the needs of our residents and work towards creating a healthier and more vibrant Decatur.

To learn more about the Metro Atlanta Cities Wellbeing Initiative and our involvement, click here and read the full report. Thank you to all our community leaders for their dedication to improving the wellbeing of City of Decatur residents. Together, we can continue to build a community where everyone can thrive. Watch a video about Decatur’s part in the initiative by clicking below or for a full overview of all the cities involved click here.

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August is National Wellness Month!

August 5, 2024 by Leave a comment

Celebrate National Wellness Month this August by prioritizing self-care alongside your ambitions and goals. Work, school, and family obligations often take up the majority of our time, but during National Wellness Month, we encourage everyone to take some time for themselves! Whether it’s taking a walk around the neighborhood or completing a simple meditation, there are many ways to find a few moments for yourself throughout the day.

Caring for our mental health is just as essential as our physical health. This Wellness Month, we suggest simple activities such as breathing exercises, affirmations, journaling, or reading a book. Spending time outside has been proven to improve mental health. Fresh air and sunlight help regulate circadian rhythms, ensure good sleep, and boost energy levels. Enjoying a good book outdoors is a great way to get these benefits with a low-stress, relaxing activity. Spend the afternoon at your favorite City of Decatur park to improve sleep patterns and overall mental health!

The Parks and Recreation Department also provides endless opportunities for staying active and boosting physical and mental wellness. From casual jogging through the park to attending regular fitness classes, Parks and Rec offer activities that are both rewarding and fun. Check out our Playbook for a complete list of activities!

Sometimes the best thing for you is to be with others in your life. Community and relationships are essential parts of wellness. Connecting with supportive friends, family, and community members plays a huge role in mental health and wellness. Being around those who care for us and whom we care for strengthens our sense of belonging and purpose, lowering the risk of depression and anxiety. This Wellness Month, we encourage you to connect with your community by joining a walking group or volunteer organization with your friends to get involved!

Wellness Month is a starting place to incorporate small changes, like a yoga class or neighborhood walk, into everyday schedules in a way that these healthy habits can be maintained throughout the year. Happy Wellness Month!

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Parks and Recreation Month Week Two: “Fit” in Fitness

July 11, 2024 by Leave a comment

Welcome to Week Two of Parks and Recreation Month in Decatur, where we’re diving into “Fit” in Fitness! This week is all about celebrating the diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility of Decatur’s vibrant fitness opportunities. At Decatur Parks and Recreation, we’re dedicated to connecting every member of our community with programs and services that promote health equity, enhance health outcomes, and elevate overall quality of life.

Accessible Fitness for Everyone

Decatur residents are fortunate to be within a 10-minute walk of a park or trail at any time, making healthy fitness walks an easy and enjoyable option for everyone. Just a few minutes a day dedicated to fitness can deepen your connection with nature, improve interpersonal relationships, and boost mental well-being.

Community Engagement Through Fitness

Our offerings go beyond mere physical activity; they foster a sense of community through a variety of classes, events, and programs. Whether you’re participating in community fitness programs or taking a leisurely walk in your neighborhood, we encourage you to discover how you “fit” into our vibrant community of wellness.

Upcoming Events – Week 2: July 7 – July 13

“Fit” In – Clarity Fitness Pop-up Activity:

  • July 10: Yoga at 10 am – Decatur Square
  • July 12: Dance Fitness at 6 p.m. – Decatur Square, in conjunction with Rock the Mic: Karaoke Night

Join Us for Rock the Mic: Karaoke Night!

Don’t miss out on the fun! Join us this Friday at 6 p.m. on the Square for Rock the Mic: Karaoke Night, featuring a special free dance fitness class by Clarity Fitness. It’s the perfect opportunity to dance, sing, and celebrate community spirit!

Recap of Yoga on the Square

We had an amazing time on Wednesday with Clarity Fitness, practicing yoga on the Square. It was a fantastic way to unwind, stretch, and connect with our community. Thank you to everyone who joined us, and we look forward to seeing you Friday on the Square!

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Discover the Benefits of Tai Chi: Mind, Body, and Spirit in Harmony

July 8, 2024 by Leave a comment

Tai chi is a Chinese discipline that unites the mind, body, and spirit, strengthening both your physical and mental resolve. Its basic principles include integrating the mind and body, controlling movements and breathing, and generating internal energy.

Why Try Tai Chi?

A 45-minute session of tai chi may not leave you drenched in sweat, but it offers numerous benefits. Regularly practicing a variety of poses can strengthen both the lower and upper body, improve flexibility, balance, and aerobic conditioning, and help quiet unruly thoughts. Like introductory yoga poses, tai chi movements are simple, low-impact, and easier on the joints and muscles, making them generally safe for any fitness level. Even people with certain health conditions can participate with necessary modifications.

Getting Started with Tai Chi

Tai chi can be practiced from the comfort of your bedroom or living room. Search online for videos from experienced instructors to guide you through the movements and methods. Remember to start slow, as these movements may not be appropriate for all fitness levels. If you have concerns or a history of injury, consult your doctor first to discuss the appropriate course of action.

Tai Chi Opportunities at Decatur Parks and Recreation

We offer various Tai Chi classes to cater to different skill levels and needs:

TAI CHI/QIGONG

  • Level: Beginners/Hybrid class
  • Description: A 60-minute class to restore energy, using Qigong/Tai Chi to help with balance and relaxation while building strength and flexibility. Low impact and accessible to most everyone.
  • Days: Wednesdays and Saturdays
  • Time: Wednesdays at 12 p.m., Saturdays at 9:30 a.m.
  • Instructor: Neil Norton
  • Fee: $60 R/$85 NR

TAI CHI PRACTICE

  • Level: Midlevel practitioners
  • Description: Uses robust Qigong practice with Yang Style Short Tai Chi form for a full-body, brain, and energy workout. This practice cleanses the system, refurbishes chi, and helps create a flowing practice. Prerequisite knowledge of some Qigong and Tai Chi Tang Short form is required.
  • Day: Mondays
  • Time: 5 p.m.
  • Instructor: Steve Dorage
  • Fee: $60 R/$85 NR

TAI CHI FLOW (LEGACY PARK)

  • Level: Advancing practitioners
  • Description: Utilizes robust Qigong, Tai Chi, and other internal practices to cleanse and refurbish the energy system. Basic knowledge of Yang Style Short Form and some Qigong is mandatory. The goal is to create a breath, balance, and body flow for better meditation in motion.
  • Day: Saturdays
  • Time: 11 a.m.
  • Instructor: Steve Dorage
  • Fee: $60 R/$85 NR

Join us at Decatur Parks and Recreation to experience the profound benefits of tai chi, and embark on a journey toward improved health, wellness, and inner peace.

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Celebrate Parks and Recreation Month this July!

July 1, 2024 by 1 Comment

July is Parks and Recreation Month, a special time designated by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) since 1985. This month promotes the importance of parks and recreation in health, wellness, conservation, and social equity. It’s a fantastic opportunity to highlight the vital role our parks and recreation department plays in our community. This year’s theme, “Where You Belong,” celebrates how park and recreation professionals foster a sense of belonging by offering inclusive programs, essential services, and safe, accessible spaces for everyone.

During this Parks and Recreation Month, let’s unite to uplift the many reasons why parks and recreation truly embody the essence of belonging. Together, we can demonstrate why these spaces are “Where You Belong.”

Engage with Us All Month Long!

Throughout July, we will have photo frames posted in Decatur parks. Visitors can take pictures and share their moments on social media with the hashtag #whereyoubelong. The locations include:

  • McKoy Skate Park
  • Glenlake Tennis Center
  • Ebster Pool
  • Oakhurst Park Playground
  • Scott Park

We hope to see your posts with the hashtag #whereyoubelong!

Week 1: June 30-July 6

  • Kick-off – Popin’ Pools/Parks (Ally & Rec hand out popsicles)
  • July 3: 11:00am – Scott Park
  • July 3: 2:30pm – Glenlake Pool & Park

Week 2: July 7-July 13

  • “Fit” In – Clarity Fitness Pop-up Activity
  • July 10: Yoga, 10am – Decatur Square
  • July 12: Dance Fitness at 6 p.m. on Decatur Square, in conjunction with Rock the Mic: Karaoke Night

Week 4: July 21-July 27

  • A Kinship with the Land – Nature Walks and Rock Snake
  • July 23 & July 25: 10-11am – Glenlake (Campers and Community paint rocks with Kim)
  • July 23: 10-12pm – Decatur Cemetery (Meet at cemetery office)
  • July 24: 10-12pm – Legacy Park (Meet at main front building)
  • July 26: 10-12pm – Hawk Hollow, 2304 First Avenue, Atlanta 30317

On June 17th at the commissioner’s meeting, Mayor Garrett proclaimed July as National Parks and Recreation Month. Join us in celebrating Parks and Recreation Month at your favorite Decatur park, and be part of this incredible journey of community, health, and wellness!

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Celebrating International Yoga Day with Decatur Parks & Recreation

June 21, 2024 by 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 ,

Celebrate Global Running Day – June 5, 2024!

June 5, 2024 by 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!

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3 Chair Yoga Poses For All Fitness Levels this Monday

May 20, 2024 by 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 by 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 ,

Fuel Your Workouts with Positive Words of Affirmation

April 15, 2024 by Leave a comment

There’s a secret to staying active week after week, and it doesn’t come in a powder or a bottle. It’s actually all in your mind. For real.

Positive affirmations can help motivate you to pursue new healthy habits and overcome existing challenges by replacing that little negative voice in the back of your head with words of encouragement. Think of a positive affirmation as a mini, personal pep talk that you repeat to yourself in order to stay focused, driven, and inspired. These short phrases can be especially useful when attempting to recommit to an exercise routine or advance your level of fitness.

So how do you use positive affirmations to stay motivated? Although there is no set number of repetitions, saying your affirmation 20 times, 3 times a day is a good place to start. Other recommendations include repeating your affirmation for 5 minutes a few times throughout the course of the day. If you find it’s too much or too little, you can adjust to fit your own preferences.

We’ve assembled a collection of positive affirmations and inspirational words that will give you the clarity, belief, and ambition needed to tackle any obstacle and reach your fitness goals. Read the words below, and use this Move It Monday to harness the power of good thoughts.

For motivation

“As I exercise my body, my body will repay me with extra years of good health.”

“I am becoming closer to my true self every day. Every inch of physical progress brings me closer to that goal.”

“I am fit and healthy and I radiate happiness and love.”

For self-awareness

“My mission is to be the healthiest and happiest version of myself, I won’t allow myself to miss this opportunity to be physically active. I am doing this for me.”

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