The Transformative Power of Nature and Community with Toyin Ajayi

Welcome to another insightful episode of Embodied Justice, hosted by the phenomenal Dr. Judy Lubin. This week, we’re delving into the healing power of nature with the extraordinary Toyin Ajayi, founder of Outdoorsy Black Women. If you’re ready to explore the intersections of rest, nature, and social justice, you’re in the right place.

Toyin Ajayi shares her transformative journey of connecting with nature and the profound impact it has on rest, well-being, and resilience. A beacon for Black women who crave the tranquility of the outdoors, Toyin underscores the vital importance of rest in our lives, especially for those dedicated to social change and racial equity work.

Here are three pivotal takeaways from the discussion:

1. Nature Nurtures Patience and Presence: Toyin highlighted that one of the greatest lessons nature imparts is patience. The glacial pace at which trees grow, the gentle flow of rivers – all teach us that we are not in control of everything. This realization is not only humbling but also liberating, especially in the context of social change work where urgency and impatience often reign supreme.[15:42]: And to see value in us, like, working our fingers to the bone, so to speak. And so there’s been sort of like this revolution in the past few years with talk discussions about rest and, Racial Hershey, rest is resistance. And so I just would love to hear how you see nature, being really a part of, a rest practice. Whatever However we might choose to be engaging with nature, really, is like engaging with ourselves because we are nature. But what’s where does nature play or being outdoors play in in in us being able to rest.
2. Creating Safe Outdoor Spaces for Black Women: Through Outdoorsy Black Women, Toyin has been at the helm of creating safe, welcoming spaces for black women to explore and enjoy outdoor activities. Safety concerns, particularly in the face of racial threats, have long kept many black people from embracing the outdoors. Toyin’s efforts are reshaping narratives, dispelling myths about black women’s interest in outdoor adventures, and fostering a thriving community of over 7,000 members.
   [30:03]: Because people wanna overcomplicate things, and and that tends to deter people. Like, if somebody’s like, well, I I’m not a mountain climber. That’s okay. You don’t have to be a mountain climber. You could literally go for a walk in your neighborhood. And, you know, if you’re fortunate to have trees in your neighborhood, you could take in the trees and maybe even notice what colors they are, how they’ve changed, when the leaves are dropping, taking the fresh air. I say that because I I recognize that different people have access to different outdoor spaces.
3. Mindfulness in Nature: From journaling in the serene embrace of trees to experiencing adrenaline rushes through skydiving, Toyin underscores the value of mindfulness practices rooted in nature. Living in her RV for three years, she cherished the simple joys of walking barefoot, meditating by a river, or simply soaking in the vastness of the ocean – each moment a testament to the healing power of nature.
   [22:35]: Because you don’t wanna feel like you’re passing the buck for you’re not doing enough. And, you know, I would say with that, it’s a collective effort. Like, recognizing that you may only be we’re all part of and collective, so you can’t change everything. You’re not gonna be the one that changes every single part of this this the system that we are basically combating. But recognizing, you know, you you may have a small part to play, and that’s okay. Do your small part because if everybody does their small part, then we’re gonna be able to affect change. Mhmm.

Take Action:

Join the movement with Outdoorsy Black Women and the Center for Urban and Racial Equity by participating in our mindfulness practices and outdoor activities. Explore the healing and restorative power of nature through meditation, journaling, and exhilarating adventures like skydiving and fishing. Discover simple ways to enjoy the outdoors in your urban setting and become part of a community that ensures safety and inclusivity for black women. Visit outdoorsyblackwomen.com to connect and engage with us on social media, and take the first step towards reclaiming your rest, well-being, and a sense of belonging in nature. Together, we can affect change and build a more equitable society.

Learn More about Our Guest