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 , , ,

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!

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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 , , , , , ,

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!

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Where Will YOU Walk in April?

April 2, 2021 by Leave a comment

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Spring Has Sprung! Let’s Get Outside

March 31, 2021 by Leave a comment

Walking Book Club
Our first book is Vanishing Acts by Jodi Picoult. For our first meeting, read pages 1-52  or until the Andrew  chapter. 

The walk will be easy and approx. 1-2 miles.   Meet in front of the Decatur Recreation Center and be ready to walk at 9 am. Group size limited to eight. Registration and masks are required to keep COVID protocols. Group will meet every Saturday morning at 9 am.
Register here.

April Walk Challenge
Where will you walk in April? Complete the Walk Challenge Bingo and score a Walk There Decatur bandanna and a light to keep you seen at night.
Send completed bingo cards to Cheryl Burnette no later than May 1, 2021.

Third Friday Bike Ride
Join us on Friday, April 16th for a 6 mile ride around the city at a casual pace. Ride leaves from the front of the Decatur Recreation Center at 6:30 pm.  All levels of cyclists are welcome, however not recommended for children. Helmets and face coverings are required. For  more information contact Cheryl Burnette.

Free Yoga on the Square
Classes begin the week of April 12. Join us on Monday and Thursday mornings at 10 am and start your day off with a great stretch!  This is an all levels class taught by Cheryl Burnette. Class is limited to ten.Masks and registration are required. Register here. 

Wednesday Walks
Join us on Wednesdays at 9 am for this 2-3 mile walk around Decatur neighborhoods. Meet in front of the Decatur Recreation Center and be ready to step out at 9 am. At this time, masks and registration are required. Contact Sara Holmes to register. 

New! Trails and Ales
On April 29 we will introduce a new program, Trails and Ales. We will begin and end our walk at Three Taverns Brewery. The cost is $25; participants receive a special Trails and Ales t-shirt and a pint after the walk. For more information contact Sara Holmes.

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Show Us Where YOU Walk

January 1, 2020 by Leave a comment

Walk There! Decatur  

Show us where you walk and receive a free light!

#iwalkdecatur  #whereiwalk  @beactivedecatur

The City of Decatur, with its tree lined streets and more than 60 miles of sidewalks in 4.5 square miles, is a prime location for walking. WalkScore.com rates the City of Decatur as the most walkable city in Georgia with the highest walk score!

Take a photo of yourself or friends and family walking in Decatur and show us where YOU walk! Post the photo on social media and tag the photo with #iwalkdecatur #whereiwalk and @beactivedecatur; then show your post to the staff at the Visitors Center and receive a free Walk There Decatur! light so you can be seen when walking at night.

The Visitors Center is located at 113 Clairemont Avenue and is open Tuesday through Saturday. This promotion is from January until March, or until supplies last.

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Walk With a Doc is Saturday, June 10th

June 8, 2017 by Leave a comment

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Join Decatur Active Living on Saturday, June 10th at 10 am for this month’s Walk With a Doc. Dr. Reginald Mason from Kaiser Permanente is this month’s doctor. Dr. Mason is a pulmonary and critical care physician. Read more about him here.

Meet in front of the Decatur Recreation Center. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle and questions for the doc.

 

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Team Decatur Wants YOU!

September 8, 2015 by Leave a comment

team-decatur-2015-shirt-frontIt is NOT too late to register for the KP Corporate Run/Walk 5k so you can be part of Team Decatur!

Here is an EASY way to get right to the registration: https://runsignup.com/CorporateTeams/decaturrunskp.

We will have our Team Photo made around 6 pm the day of the race, and after the race we will gather in our Team Tent for catering from Zest, beverages courtesy of UJoint and Oakhurst Market and FUN!

Don’t miss out. For more info click here.

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Fourth Thursday Bright at Night Walk is July 23

July 20, 2015 by 1 Comment

June Walkers

June Walkers

Join the Pedestrian committee of the Active Living Board for a fun “Bright at Night” walk around Decatur on Thursday, July 23 at 6:30 pm. Meet in front of the Decatur Recreation Center  for a 3-mile walk through South Decatur neighborhoods.

Walkers receive a free Bright at Night light to wear when it gets darker.

If it is raining,  we will walk the track inside the gym.

Walk There! Decatur

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