The Transformative Power of Nature and Community with Toyin Ajayi

Embodied Justice with Dr. Judy Lubin

In this enriching episode of “Embodied Justice”, Dr. Judy Lubin converses with Toyin Ajayi, founder of Outdoorsy Black Women. The discussion navigates through Toyin’s inspiring journey of building a community for black women interested in outdoor activities, the transformational power of connecting with nature, and the imperative of rest in the zone of social change and racial equity work. Toyin passionately underscores the therapeutic essence of nature, the importance of mindfulness practices, and the critical safety measures necessary to ensure black women can freely enjoy and benefit from outdoor experiences.

In this episode you will learn about:

• The Restorative Power of Nature: Toyin Ajayi emphasizes the significant impact nature has on personal well-being and rest. Nature provides opportunities to wake up naturally, encourages patience, and reinforces the idea that one cannot control everything. This connection to the natural world can lead to a more restorative and balanced life.
• Safety and Community in Outdoor Spaces: Safety concerns, especially with respect to encounters with white supremacists, are a stark reality for black women in outdoor settings. Toyin discusses the steps Outdoorsy Black Women takes to create a safe community, including an exhaustive screening process for membership and stringent measures against potential threats.
• Mindfulness and Living in the Moment: Through practices like journaling and taking quiet moments, along with more adrenaline-pumping activities such as skydiving, Toyin underscores the importance of mindfulness. Recognizing the rapid changes in nature acts as a powerful reminder to live in the present and appreciate the moment. She encourages everyone, even city dwellers, to find simple yet meaningful ways to connect with nature.

Tune in to explore these profound insights and appreciate the significant interconnection between nature, well-being, and social justice work, as shared by the remarkable Toyin Ajayi. Join the conversation and learn how to bring these transformative ideas into your own life.

About Our Guest:
Toyin Ajayi is a visionary leader and founder of Outdoorsy Black Women, a vibrant community of over 7,000 women dedicated to reconnecting with nature and reshaping the narrative around black women's presence in outdoor spaces. With a deep passion for adventure and wellness, Toyin has transformed her personal journeys into a movement that emphasizes the healing power of nature, especially for overworked and trauma-affected individuals. Her diverse and exhilarating outdoor experiences, ranging from skydiving to walking barefoot in nature, underline her commitment to promoting holistic well-being. Toyin's dedication to creating safe, inclusive, and empowering spaces for black women in the outdoors stands as a testament to her leadership and advocacy in advancing racial equity and communal care.
Connect with Our Guest:
On the Web: outdoorsyblackwomen.com
On Instagram: @outdoorsyblackwomen/
On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OutdoorsyBlackWomen

Thank for spending your precious time with us!
This episode is brought to you by the Center for Urban and Racial Equity. To learn more CURE and the Embodied Justice Program and Retreat, head to https://urbanandracialequity.org/embodied-justice-program/