What's Happening?
Malika White, founder of Black Girls Do Hike, is advocating for eco-therapy as a means to improve mental and emotional well-being, particularly among Black women. White initially started hiking for exercise in 2018, forming a meetup group for Black female
coworkers. This initiative evolved into a non-profit organization after White experienced personal challenges, including job loss and financial uncertainty during the 2020 pandemic. She found solace and mental resilience through solo hiking, which she describes as eco-therapy. This practice involves interacting with nature to restore mental health, encompassing activities like forest bathing and nature meditation. White's organization now has nearly 2,000 members on Facebook and hosts hikes that often see over 100 participants annually. She incorporates reflective prompts and journaling into these hikes, leading to the creation of her guided hiking journal, 'Rooted & Rising: A Guided Hiking Journal for Black Women.' The group primarily hikes in local North Carolina areas such as Crowders Mountain and Reedy Creek Nature Preserve, but has also ventured to other parts of North Carolina and Tennessee.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is important because it addresses the underrepresentation of Black individuals in outdoor activities and provides a crucial platform for mental health support within this community. By promoting eco-therapy, Malika White is highlighting an accessible and effective method for stress reduction, anxiety management, and overall emotional well-being. The creation of a supportive community through Black Girls Do Hike fosters camaraderie and allows participants to discuss personal topics in a healthy, outdoor environment. This is particularly significant given the disproportionate impact of mental health challenges and limited access to mental health resources in some communities. The guided hiking journal further empowers individuals to engage in self-reflection and mindfulness, extending the therapeutic benefits beyond the group hikes. The growth of the organization demonstrates a clear need and desire for such initiatives, contributing to a broader movement of integrating nature into wellness practices.
What's Next?
Malika White is actively seeking volunteers and sponsors to support the continued growth and operation of Black Girls Do Hike as a non-profit organization. This support will be crucial for expanding the reach of eco-therapy and making it accessible to more Black women. White is also working on her memoir, 'The Space Between Falling and Rising: A Journey of Loss, Healing, and Becoming,' which is slated for release this year. The memoir will likely share her personal journey and the transformative power of hiking and nature, potentially inspiring more individuals to explore eco-therapy. The continued development of guided journals and structured outdoor activities could further solidify the practice of eco-therapy within the community. As the organization gains more recognition, there is potential for partnerships with mental health professionals or wellness programs to integrate eco-therapy into broader mental health strategies.
Beyond the Headlines
The work of Black Girls Do Hike extends beyond simply organizing hikes; it challenges existing narratives and stereotypes about Black people's engagement with the outdoors. By creating a visible and thriving community, White is fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. This initiative also subtly addresses the broader societal issue of environmental justice and equitable access to green spaces, which are often lacking in underserved communities. The emphasis on eco-therapy highlights a growing recognition of the interconnectedness between environmental well-being and mental health. As climate change and environmental concerns become more prevalent, practices like eco-therapy may become increasingly vital for coping with eco-anxiety and promoting resilience. The success of Black Girls Do Hike could serve as a model for other communities looking to leverage nature for mental health benefits, fostering a more inclusive and holistic approach to wellness.
