Nature Is for Every Body: A Reflection from the Radiant Woman Expo
On 11/7, at the Radiant Woman Expo, a few conversations stayed with me long after I left the studio. Several women shared that they weren’t sure if they could join one of my mindful walks or hikes because of their body image, their weight, or how they believed they “should” look to be active outdoors.
One woman said, “I hope I don’t offend you…”
But she didn’t. Because I completely understand.
I am a plus-size woman.
I am also an active woman.
I train 3–4 times a week at Orange Theory Fitness, and some days I work out and go for a hike. I tackle hard trails, climb rocky terrain, and spend hours outside. I’ve trained for long-distance hikes. I’ve written about this journey in my Nature Journey blog because it’s a part of who I am:
I can do hard things.
And while reflecting on the expo and scrolling through posts from the event, something clicked:
Maybe I need to share this more.
Because I am not the “typical” athletic body society expects to see outdoors.
But I am strong.
I am capable.
And I show up — in nature, in my work, and for my community.
And I want others to know:
You can show up exactly as you are, too.
Accessibility and Inclusion in Nature
When I lead mindful walks and community events, the focus isn’t on distance or endurance. It’s on connection, mindfulness, accessibility, and healing.
Need a slower pace? We slow down.
Need a shorter route? We adjust.
Walking feels too hard? You can sit on a bench, ground yourself in the grass, stretch, or simply breathe deeply in the fresh air.
You do not need to “earn” nature by being fit.
Nature meets you exactly where you are.
In a world that still glorifies thinness and tells us what a “healthy” or “acceptable” body looks like, it’s important to say out loud: all bodies are nature bodies. Everyone deserves to feel safe, welcome, and included in outdoor spaces.
What Nature and Community Have Taught Me
There were days I doubted my own abilities. I worried about keeping up on a trail or pushing my body. But step by step, in my own time, I discovered connection, strength, and joy.
I joined hiking groups. I met people who celebrated each step, each summit, and each moment. I found acceptance and encouragement — not because of how I looked, but because I showed up.
Nature therapy isn’t about pushing like a gym would. It’s about:
Moving the way your body wants to move
Learning your personal rhythm
Walking at your own pace and recognizing your strength along the way
And life, just like the trail, works the same way: each step counts, each effort matters, and showing up is always enough.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the year wraps up, I am carrying this intention into 2026:
✅ Opening doors for people who feel unsure, self-conscious, or hesitant about joining outdoor experiences
✅ Creating outdoor spaces where every body feels welcome
✅ Encouraging curiosity, courage, and connection
✅ Reminding everyone that strength isn’t defined by shape or size — it’s defined by showing up
You don’t need to be an athlete. You don’t need special gear. You don’t need to meet any societal expectations.
You just have to be willing to show up.
And I will meet you there.
Connect, Reflect, and Grow
If you’re curious about Walk & Talk therapy, mindful hikes, or small-group community offerings in 2026, I invite you to take the next step.
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Nature is for every body — and that includes yours.
