Refill Your Tank: Simple Self-Care for a Happier, Healthier You

January 12, 2026 by Leave a comment

Sometimes we forget the toll that hard work can take on our minds and bodies. Between jobs, family, schedules, and the endless “just one more thing,” it’s easy to run ourselves on empty. But living with the needle stuck on E isn’t heroic — it’s exhausting.

Stress happens to everyone. Whether you’re working all day, caring for kids, or juggling both, the pressure adds up. When we don’t pause to recharge, even the smallest tasks feel heavier. The good news? You don’t need a vacation or a complicated routine to feel better. Small, intentional moments of self-care can make a big difference.

This Monday, take a moment to disconnect from stress and reconnect with yourself. Here are a few easy ways to do it.

Quick Self-Care You Can Do Right Now

Go for a walk.
Feel the air, notice the temperature, and let the warmth of the sun or the cool breeze ground you. Look up at the clouds. Even a short walk can reset your mood.

Take a breather anytime, anywhere.
Pause for a minute. Take a deep inhale that fills your belly, hold it for a beat, then exhale slowly and completely. Repeat for a minute and let your nervous system settle.

Try a yoga moment.
Stretch at your desk or in your living room. Reach your arms overhead, fold forward, and gently move your body. Even a few simple movements can release tension and wake you up.

Water works.
A warm bath or shower is one of the simplest ways to relax your muscles and take a break from screens.

Call a friend.
Sharing a laugh or catching up with someone you care about is a natural stress reliever.

Sleep.
Go to bed a little earlier. Read. Stretch. Let your body truly rest. Good sleep is one of the most powerful forms of self-care there is.

Take It a Step Further with Decatur Parks & Recreation

If you’re ready to turn these simple habits into something you can stick with, Decatur Parks & Recreation offers welcoming, low-pressure ways to build self-care into your week.

Wednesday Walks
Get outside, get moving, and connect with neighbors during our weekly neighborhood walks.

  • 2–3 mile guided walks through Decatur neighborhoods
  • No registration required
  • Drop-in Wednesdays at 10 a.m.
  • Meet outside the Decatur Recreation Center

It’s the perfect way to combine movement, fresh air, and community — three powerful stress-busters in one.

Deep Stretch / Yin Yoga
Slow down and let your body truly unwind with this gentle, restorative yoga class. Yin and Restorative poses are held longer with support, allowing you to release tension in your muscles, joints, and connective tissue.

  • Thursdays at 10 a.m.
  • Instructor: Cheryl Burnette
  • Bring a mat and a yoga blanket or large towel
  • Fee: $60 Residents / $85 Non-Residents, or $15 drop-in

Most poses are done seated or lying down, making this a wonderful option if you want a calm, supportive way to stretch and relax.

Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s how you keep showing up for the people and things that matter. This Monday (and every week), give yourself permission to refill your tank. A little movement, a little stillness, and a little community can go a long way toward a longer, happier, and healthier life.

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

Celebrating Our Crossing Guards: Decatur Honors the People Who Keep Us Moving Safely

November 17, 2025 by Leave a comment

Last week, the City of Decatur celebrated Crossing Guard Appreciation Week, and on Friday, November 14, we held our annual Crossing Guard Appreciation Breakfast to recognize the incredible individuals who keep our streets safe every day.

Decatur is proud to have 50 crossing guards, which is more than the number of police officers in our city. Their presence reflects our strong commitment to walking, rolling, and community safety. These dedicated individuals do so much more than help students cross the street. They help create the safe, welcoming routes that make Decatur a Gold level Walk Friendly Community and a Silver level Bicycle Friendly Community.

More Than a Job: A Daily Source of Safety, Smiles, and Support

Crossing guards are often the first friendly faces students see in the morning and a reassuring presence as they head home. They are trusted adults, smiling neighbors, and watchful protectors who help children feel confident walking or biking to school.

Their work also supports festivals, parades, and community events where they help keep people moving safely in every corner of our city. Their service is essential to Decatur’s culture of active transportation.

A Community Celebration

This year’s breakfast was made extra special thanks to the talented students in the Decatur High School Culinary Arts Program, who prepared and catered the meal. Their involvement reflects the same spirit of community connection and collaboration that defines our Safe Routes to School program.

We were honored to celebrate two special recognitions:

  • Joyce Washington, who marked 20 years of service as a Decatur crossing guard. Her dedication, warmth, and steady presence have touched generations of students and families.
  • Larry McCrary, who was named Crossing Guard of the Year. We received 78 votes from the community, and Larry’s selection reflects the positive impact he has on students, families, and school staff every day.

Thank You, Crossing Guards

To all 50 of our crossing guards: thank you for everything you do to keep Decatur moving safely. Your work helps our children walk and bike with confidence, and your presence strengthens our community.

We appreciate you not only during Appreciation Week, but throughout the entire year.

Filed under Decatur Parks & Recreation, Safe Routes to School, Walk Decatur, Walking School Bus Tagged with , , ,

Celebrate Car Free Day in Decatur: Choose Active Transportation and Make a Difference

September 22, 2025 by Leave a comment

Every year, communities around the world take part in Car Free Day to reimagine what our streets and neighborhoods could look like with fewer cars and more people walking, biking, or using public transit. Here in the City of Decatur, this day is a perfect opportunity to highlight the many ways our community supports active transportation and the environmental benefits that come with it.

Decatur is a city designed with people in mind. With an extensive sidewalk network, bike lanes, multi-use paths, and three MARTA stations, getting around without a car is easier than ever. Many of our neighborhoods are part of Decatur’s “10-minute community” vision, where schools, parks, shops, and restaurants are all within a short walk or bike ride. Choosing these options for even a few trips a week can make a meaningful impact.

Going car-free, even for a day, has real benefits. Every mile walked, biked, or taken by transit helps reduce air pollution, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and ease traffic congestion. On top of the environmental impact, active transportation supports personal health, encourages social connections, and creates safer, more vibrant streets for everyone.

Whether you walk your child to school, ride your bike to work, or hop on MARTA to meet a friend, Car Free Day is a reminder that the choices we make about how we travel matter. By embracing active transportation in Decatur, we not only help protect our environment but also strengthen the sense of community that makes our city unique.

So this Car Free Day, leave your car at home and take advantage of all the ways Decatur makes it easy to get around sustainably. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier, and more connected city.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Healthy Monday, Monday Campaigns, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , , , ,

Step Into Spring: Celebrating Walk to Work Day & National Walking Day in Decatur

April 4, 2025 by Leave a comment

April is off to a strong and sunny start here in Decatur—and what better way to kick it off than by lacing up your sneakers and celebrating two walking holidays in the same week?

On Wednesday, April 2, communities across the country marked National Walking Day, an annual reminder from the American Heart Association about the power of walking to improve our physical and mental health. Whether it was a stroll through your neighborhood, a walk to school with your child, or laps around the track, this day encouraged everyone to take the first step toward a healthier lifestyle.

And today, Friday, April 4, we’re keeping the momentum going with Walk to Work Day—a perfect opportunity to reimagine your daily commute. Even if you don’t live within walking distance of your workplace, there are creative ways to build a walk into your morning or evening routine. Try parking a little farther away, hopping off MARTA a stop early, or starting your day with a neighborhood loop before logging in from home.

Here in Decatur, we’re proud to be a city that supports walking year-round. From our tree-lined sidewalks to our growing network of greenways and crosswalks, walking is a key part of our vision for a more connected, healthy, and people-centered community. In fact, walking aligns beautifully with our Strategic Plan 2020: Destination 2030—especially the goal of creating 10-minute neighborhoods where residents can easily walk to parks, schools, shops, and services.

So whether you walked on Wednesday, today, or plan to head out over the weekend, this is your reminder that every step counts. Walking is one of the simplest, most accessible forms of exercise—and it’s also a great way to connect with your neighbors and your surroundings.

📸 Did you celebrate Walk to Work Day or National Walking Day? Tag us in your photos or stories (@decaturparksandrec)—we’d love to share your steps!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Walk Decatur Tagged with , ,

Bikeability and Walkability in Decatur: A City Built for Moving

February 11, 2025 by Leave a comment

This Valentine’s season, we’re sharing the love—Decatur loves you, and we love being active! Whether you’re walking hand-in-hand through our charming streets or biking to your favorite local café, Decatur is designed to make every trip safe, scenic, and enjoyable.

With over 60 miles of tree-lined and art-filled sidewalks in just 4.7 square miles, Decatur has earned an A+ walkability score and is officially designated a “Walker’s Paradise” by WalkScore. Whether you’re a long-time resident or just visiting, choosing to walk or bike is a great way to show love for your health, your community, and the environment.

Walk There! Decatur: It’s Closer Than You Think

Decatur’s “Walk There! Decatur” campaign encourages people to choose walking over driving whenever possible. Look for Walk There! Decatur signs along sidewalks and streets, showing estimated walking times to nearby points of interest. Each sign includes a QR code so pedestrians can get real-time walking directions on their smartphones. For those without a phone, a map is provided on the back of each sign.

Why Walk?

  • It promotes physical fitness – Show your heart some love with a little extra movement.
  • It’s a greener option – Walking helps keep Decatur beautiful and sustainable.
  • It supports local businesses – Walk to your favorite date night spot or coffee shop.
  • It enhances tourism – Visitors can easily experience all the charm Decatur has to offer.

Pedal Power: Decatur as a Bike-Friendly Community

For those who love biking, Decatur has invested in infrastructure to make cycling safe and accessible. The city features:

  • Bike lanes, sharrows, and bike boxes to improve safety on the roads.
  • Plenty of bike racks in business districts for easy parking.
  • Bike repair stations strategically placed throughout the city for quick fixes.

Thanks to these efforts, Decatur has been recognized as a Silver-Level Bicycle-Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists.

Safety Tips for Walking and Biking in Decatur

For Pedestrians:
✔ Use crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals.
✔ Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at busy intersections.
✔ Walk on sidewalks whenever possible—if none are available, walk facing traffic.
✔ Be visible at night by wearing light-colored or reflective clothing.

For Cyclists:
✔ Always wear a helmet and use lights when riding at night.
✔ Follow traffic laws—bikes are considered vehicles and must obey stop signs and signals.
✔ Ride in bike lanes when available or stay as far right as practical when sharing the road.
✔ Use hand signals to communicate with drivers and pedestrians.

For Drivers:
✔ Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and give cyclists at least three feet of space when passing.
✔ Watch for bikes when turning, especially at intersections.
✔ Be mindful of designated bike lanes and sharrows.
✔ Avoid distractions—stay off your phone while driving.

Decatur Loves to Move!

This Valentine’s Day, show some love for your health, your city, and your community by choosing to walk or bike. Whether you’re out for a stroll with someone special, riding to meet friends, or simply enjoying the fresh air, Decatur loves being active—and we hope you do too!

For more information about biking and walking initiatives in Decatur, visit our website.

Filed under Bike Decatur, City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Exercise, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , , , , ,

How to Stay Active for a Healthy Heart

February 3, 2025 by Leave a comment

A number of factors affect your heart health, with physical activity being one of the most important. Your heart is a muscle, and just like your biceps and quadriceps, it too benefits from a weekly workout. Because when your heart doesn’t get the care and attention it requires, problems can develop.

So how much exercise do you need to help your heart thrive? Not much!

The American Heart Association recommends that adults get around 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Some examples of moderate intensity workouts include fast-paced walking, water aerobics, dancing, gardening (it can make you happier, too), tennis (doubles), or biking. High-intensity aerobics, such as running, swimming laps, and hiking, are also beneficial, but make sure to consult with your physician before incorporating these exercises into your physical-activity routine.

Decatur Parks and Recreation offers fun, social ways to stay active while meeting your fitness goals. Check out these upcoming programs:

Wednesday Walks – Take a 2-3 mile walk with your neighbors around Decatur every Wednesday at 10 a.m. Meet outside the Decatur Recreation Center and enjoy the fresh air!

Water Aerobics – Stay active in the pool! Dynamo Swim Club offers water aerobics classes at the Oakhurst indoor pool.

REBEL Groove Dance Fitness – A full-body, interval-based workout that combines dance and cardio in a fun, no-rules atmosphere. Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Oakhurst Recreation Center.

Scott Park Garden Club – Gardening is great for your heart and mind! Join this organic community garden in Scott Park and enjoy greenspace therapy while staying active. Plots available for $75/year.

Beginner Tennis Clinics – Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your skills, this clinic covers forehands, backhands, serves, and more. Held Sundays at 12 p.m. at Glenlake Tennis Center.

Bikes & Brews – Enjoy a 6-mile, casual-paced bike ride around the city on the third Friday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Ride starts at Guild + Journeyman (115 Clairemont Ave). Helmets required.

Another important point to remember is that you don’t have to be “exercising” to stay active. Small adjustments to your day-to-day life, like sitting less or taking a few extra laps around the house, can contribute positively to your heart health. A great way to do this is to “habit stack,” or incorporate extra movement into your normal routine. Waiting for the coffee to brew? Walk up and down the stairs, do a quick set of squats, or get in a quick stretch.

This Monday, set a goal of getting in 30 minutes of physical activity, and try to keep it up for the rest of the week. If you don’t reach the 150-minute mark, don’t sweat it. You can always refresh your intensions the following Monday. Your heart will thank you.

Filed under Adult Sports, Aquatics, Bike Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Decatur Recreation Center, Exercise, Healthy Monday, Monday Campaigns, Oakhurst Recreation Center, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , ,

Walk There! Decatur

January 27, 2025 by Leave a comment

Pedestrian Safety Tips in the City of Decatur

Walking is one of the most enjoyable ways to explore the City of Decatur. With our tree-lined streets, bustling square, and vibrant neighborhoods, Decatur is committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for pedestrians. Whether you’re walking to school, commuting to work, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some essential pedestrian safety tips to help keep everyone safe on Decatur’s streets:

1. Use Designated Crosswalks

Always cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections. These areas are designed for pedestrian visibility, and drivers are more likely to yield to you. Be sure to wait for the “Walk” signal when available.

2. Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions

Keep your eyes up and avoid distractions like texting or using your phone while walking. Staying aware of your surroundings helps you notice approaching vehicles, bicycles, or other potential hazards.

3. Make Eye Contact with Drivers

Before crossing the street, make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you. Never assume a driver has noticed you or will yield the right-of-way.

4. Walk on Sidewalks

Use sidewalks whenever available. If a sidewalk is not present, walk on the shoulder of the road facing traffic to increase visibility and reduce the risk of accidents.

5. Be Visible, Especially at Night

If you’re walking in low-light conditions, wear bright or reflective clothing to make yourself more visible to drivers. Carrying a flashlight or using reflective accessories can also improve safety.

6. Follow Traffic Signals and Signs

Adhere to all traffic signals and pedestrian signs. Crossing against the light or outside of designated areas increases the risk of accidents and confusion for drivers.

7. Teach Kids Pedestrian Safety Rules

Ensure children understand basic pedestrian safety rules, such as looking both ways before crossing, using crosswalks, and staying close to an adult when near traffic.

8. Advocate for Safe Streets

Decatur residents are encouraged to advocate for pedestrian-friendly policies and infrastructure improvements. Whether it’s attending community meetings or participating in walkability studies, your voice helps shape a safer city for everyone.

How Decatur Supports Pedestrian Safety

The City of Decatur has made significant investments in creating a pedestrian-friendly community. Projects like traffic-calming measures, expanded crosswalks, and pedestrian signals at key intersections make walking safer and more convenient. Additionally, educational campaigns and events like Walk to School Day promote awareness of pedestrian safety.

By working together as a community, we can ensure that the City of Decatur remains a safe, walkable, and enjoyable city for all residents and visitors. Take these tips to heart, stay mindful of your surroundings, and enjoy all that Decatur has to offer—on foot!

Filed under City of Decatur, Decatur Parks & Recreation, Safe Routes to School, Walk Decatur Tagged with , , ,

This Monday Recommit to Your Routine to Reduce Your Stress Level

December 9, 2024 by 1 Comment

Recommit to Your Routine This Monday to Reduce Stress

Stress might feel like a part of life, but it’s often called a “silent killer” due to its negative effects on physical and mental health. This Monday, take charge by reconnecting with activities that help you stay active, balanced, and in control of your stress.

A full, busy life is a blessing, but it can also be overwhelming. You’re not alone—two-thirds of Americans report feeling stressed, with money and work being top triggers, according to the American Psychological Society. Even small disruptions, like a late night or missed workout, can throw us off balance. But there’s good news: research shows that intentional movement and mindfulness practices can significantly reduce stress.

Move Your Body to Calm Your Mind

Exercise:
Exercise is a proven stress-buster. Staying sedentary can increase stress levels, while movement can boost your mood, promote relaxation, and release feel-good endorphins. The Mayo Clinic highlights the mental health benefits of regular exercise, from improved sleep to a greater sense of calm. Even short bursts of movement—like a quick walk or stretch—can make a big difference.

Qigong and Tai Chi:
Looking for something low-impact yet powerful? Try Qigong on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. for a gentle movement practice that connects your mind, body, and energy. Or join the Tai Chi/Qigong Beginners Class on Wednesdays at 12 p.m. to enhance strength, flexibility, and balance in a calming environment. Both classes take place at the Decatur Recreation Center.

Take a Walk to Recenter

Walking is one of the easiest ways to combat stress and improve overall well-being. It’s also a great way to connect with your community.

Wednesday Walks: Meet us outside the Decatur Recreation Center for a 2-3 mile walk around the neighborhood. It’s a perfect midweek reset. Walks start at 9 a.m. (May-September) and 10 a.m. (October-April).

#MondayMile: Walk off stress by joining the Monday Mile! It’s a simple, social way to get moving—just grab a friend or coworker and walk a mile to kick-start your week.

Center Yourself with Yoga and Meditation

Yoga and meditation provide a calming way to reset your mind and body while releasing stress. These practices help increase flexibility, improve focus, and enhance overall well-being.

Flow Yoga: Ease into your week with this gentle practice linking movement and breath. This class includes flowing sequences and slower, held postures focusing on alignment, flexibility, and balance. Join us Tuesdays at 10 a.m.

Deep Stretch Yoga: Find balance and release tension with poses held for longer periods to relax muscles, joints, and connective tissue. Suitable for all levels—just bring a yoga mat and a blanket or large towel. Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Both Flow Yoga and Deep Stretch Yoga take place at the Decatur Recreation Center.

This Monday, commit to a routine that makes you feel good inside and out. Whether it’s yoga, Qigong, walking, or a simple stretch, make space to move, breathe, and rediscover your balance. Your mind and body will thank you.

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

5 Ways to Walk a Monday Mile Indoors

November 11, 2024 by Leave a comment

When the weather is sunny and delightful, taking a stroll through the neighborhood or exploring your local park is a terrific way to get your daily dose of physical activity. But gloomy storm clouds and frost-covered sidewalks can often discourage us from venturing outside.

On these frightful days, it’s best to take your Monday Mile walk indoors.

…But how?

Even if you can’t get to indoor facilities like gyms and shopping centers, there are still many ways to get in your weekly steps from the comfort of your own home. This Monday, get in your Monday Mile without stepping outdoors.

Stairs

Walking up and down the stairs is a surprisingly effective form of aerobic exercise. It burns more calories than jogging, and can also increase muscle strength, improve endurance, and preserve bone density. Although you may not go the same “distance” as if you were on a treadmill or track, you will still get in a tremendous workout.

Hallways

Fitting in fitness can be fun, especially if you’re stuck in the house all day. Put on some headphones and walk around the house listening to an energizing soundtrack. If you have a step counter or another wearable fitness device—even better! You can challenge yourself to beat your last week’s step total. Use breaks in the work day to take a few laps around the house or apartment. It will benefit your body as well as your state of mind.

Supermarkets

We’re not advocating that you use your local supermarket as a gymnasium, but if you have the opportunity to go grocery shopping during off-hours, you can actually manage to get a pretty good workout strolling up and down the many aisles. Pushing a cart around the perimeter of the store is a fun (and delicious) way to get in extra steps during the week.

Treadmill

This one is pretty obvious, but if you have a treadmill, you can easily walk at any time of day. Set it up in front of your television and turn on one of your favorite shows. Next thing you know, you’ll have effortlessly walked a couple miles by the time the episode is over.

Living Room

How can you walk a mile in your living room? Easy, just walk-in-place. Sure, it might sound silly, but walking in place is actually a great source of aerobic exercise that you can do during down time or commercial breaks. In a study published by the Medicine & Science in Sport & Exercise journal, participants who walked in place for an hour burned an average of 258 calories, compared to roughly 304 calories for people who walked on a treadmill.

Walking is one of the simplest ways to get more exercise for people of any fitness level and age. It’s good for your heart, bones, muscles, weight, and your mood. This Monday, don’t let anything stop you, not even the weather.

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

Walk to a Park Day: Celebrating Decatur’s 10-Minute Neighborhood

October 10, 2024 by Leave a comment

In Decatur, we believe that parks are vital community spaces, and ensuring accessibility to these green havens is at the heart of our planning. This year, we’re proud to celebrate Walk to a Park Day on October 10th, a day that recognizes the importance of access to parks and promotes walking as a key component of a healthy, sustainable lifestyle.

Mayor Patti Garrett officially proclaimed October 10th as Walk to a Park Day at the October 7th City Commissioners Meeting, where Decatur Parks and Recreation staff were present to witness this exciting moment.

What is a 10-Minute Neighborhood?

Decatur’s 2020 Strategic Plan, Destination 2030, includes a bold vision: the “10-minute neighborhood” (MB.02). This concept focuses on ensuring that people of all abilities can safely access local amenities and activity nodes—like parks, shops, and services—within a 10-minute walk or bike ride, without needing a car. In a 10-minute neighborhood, most daily needs, including groceries, restaurants, playgrounds, and libraries, are all easily reachable.

How Does Decatur Measure Up?

Decatur is proud to be a city where 97% of our residents and employees live within walking distance of a park, far exceeding the national average of 54%. With over 60 miles of sidewalks and charming tree-lined streets, Decatur makes it easy to get outside, get active, and enjoy the natural beauty around us.

As we mark Walk to a Park Day, it’s a perfect opportunity to reflect on how the 10-minute neighborhood concept plays a crucial role in our city’s design. By encouraging walking and biking to parks and other community spaces, we’re reducing our carbon footprint, fostering health and well-being, and building connections with our neighbors.

Why Walk to a Park?

Beyond the obvious physical health benefits, walking to a park promotes mental well-being, supports environmental sustainability, and enhances social interactions. Parks are where we come together as a community, whether it’s for a morning stroll, a weekend picnic, or an afternoon at the playground.

This October 10th, celebrate Walk to a Park Day with your friends and family by taking a leisurely walk to one of Decatur’s beautiful parks. Let’s continue to embrace the 10-minute neighborhood and enjoy the walkable, accessible, and vibrant community that we all contribute to.

Get involved. Get outside. And let’s keep Decatur moving!

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

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