Do you live in Rochester and want to join the walking group? Contact Milena Nunez Garcia to register before June 18.
Extension “Walking in Nature” program cultivates health and community connection for Latino community members in Olmsted County.
There are many things to love about living in Minnesota, including an abundance of parks, trails and lakes spread throughout the most urban and rural places in the state. Science and lived experience show that spending time outside can be deeply healing for physical, mental and emotional health. However, not everybody knows about these free public resources, and some of the state’s newer residents don’t yet feel comfortable taking up space in these areas.
In Rochester, the University of Minnesota Extension “Walking in Nature” (WIN) program serves to break down the barriers that prevent Latino families from enjoying the outdoors and reaping the benefits of nature. This effort was initiated by SNAP-Ed* health and wellness coordinator Milena Nunez Garcia, who recognized the need within the local Latino population.
“We have so many beautiful trails and parks here,” says Nunez Garcia. But she was surprised to learn that many residents, including people who have lived here for years, were not aware they existed.
This realization inspired Nunez Garcia to act, and she created a six-week program for community members to
walk together as a group. WIN was adapted from the Walk with Ease curriculum, which helps people with arthritis gain confidence in their ability to be physically active, increase balance and strength, and reduce pain and discomfort.
Leading a group of 15 to 20 community members of all ages, Nunez Garcia creates an environment where participants can go at their own pace without judgment. Every session starts with warm-up exercises and ends with gentle stretching. People are encouraged to walk at their own pace, keeping the group together as much as possible.
While on the trail, Nunez Garcia stays at the back to ensure the group stays together and follows trail etiquette, especially when sharing the path with bikers. “Bikers mostly say their passing directions very quickly in English, and people are often confused and don’t know how to react,” she says. “So, it is important for me to teach them trail etiquette to make sure they stay safe.”
Building community on the trail
More than just a stroll, the program incorporates socialization as participants engage in conversations and make new connections. And it makes a difference.
“I enjoyed exercising while talking with friends, and that’s what kept my interest. It’s not the same to do it alone,” says participant Andrea Ruiz.
Beyond the social and physical aspects, walking offers mental health benefits, too. That’s why Nunez Garcia incorporates mindfulness activities during the sessions so participants not only explore their environment but also embrace their surroundings.
“The walking program was transformative,” says participant Dariale Rodulfo. “I experienced improvements in my physical and mental health. Connecting with nature gave me clarity and renewed energy.”
Even the Rochester mayor, Kim Norton, who leads broader health and well-being initiatives for the city like “Move with the Mayor,” has recognized the success of the WIN program. Working in partnership with the mayor and R-Neighbors Resource Center, Nunez Garcia hopes to make the program a year-round activity, where participants can explore the city’s community spaces in all seasons, even when walking indoors in the winter.
*Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education
Join the walking group
Register now
Permission is granted to news media to republish our news articles with credit to University of Minnesota Extension. Images also may be republished; please check for specific photographer credits or limited use restrictions in the photo title.