We had the good fortune of connecting with Magalie Remy & Sawanda Spinks and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Magalie and Sawanda, what matters most to you?
What value or principle matters most to us?

Undoubtedly self-preservation.

Why?

Before the pandemic, the answer would have been family, work, or relationships are what we value most. As we found ourselves inundated by the busyness of our own personal and career lives (i.e. taking care of home, others, leaders at work, and other chronic stressors that encompass burnout).

During the pandemic, when those stressors were at their highest, gyms were closed, and there was no “outlet” to manage our stress, we went hiking. What started as a walk between two co-workers and friends, evolved into what we now call mindful hiking. Mindful, being present in the (right now) moment or experience, and hiking, walking in and connecting to nature, became a “thing” for us, once sometimes twice a week! This one act of self-care caused an immediate increase in peace, calm, clarity, and overall well-being in our lives! Stress levels and blood pressure were reduced, and we gained a more positive outlook for the week.

We permitted ourselves to rest when the world kept telling us to GO and stay busy! We wanted to share this experience with other women, specifically women of color who may feel as if being busy is in our DNA (a.k.a. The Strong Black Woman Syndrome). We provide mindful hiking experiences to groups of women who want to temporarily escape the busyness of their lives and work, and want to connect with themselves, their community, and the beauty of nature, one mindful hike at a time!

“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” – Audre Lorde. This powerful quote reminds us that self-care is a radical act of survival and resistance. It’s about valuing yourself enough to prioritize your well-being.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Soul Sistas Hike Too is more than just a hiking group; it’s a sanctuary for women of color who seek peace, clarity, and community. What sets us apart is our focus on mindfulness and the specific needs of women, whether in the corporate sector, entrepreneurship, and caregivers. We understand the unique pressures these women face, and we curate hikes that allow them to step away from the busyness of life, reconnect with nature, and nurture both their physical and mental health. We’re incredibly proud of the strong, supportive community we’ve built, where women can not only engage in movement but also find a sense of belonging and empowerment.

Soul Sista Hike Too was born out of a shared passion for nature and a desire to create a space where women of color could decompress and recharge. The journey wasn’t always easy, balancing the demands of our own careers while building this community was challenging. However, we overcame these obstacles through persistence, a clear vision, and the unwavering support of our community. We stayed committed to our mission, adapting to the needs of our members and ensuring every hike provides a meaningful experience.

One of the key lessons we’ve learned is the importance of creating spaces where people feel seen and heard. We’ve also learned the value of consistency and how important it is to stay true to your vision, even when challenges arise. Additionally, we’ve discovered that when you lead with passion and purpose, others are naturally drawn to support and join your cause.

Soul Sista Hike Too is about more than just hiking—it’s about building a community where women of color can find peace, clarity, and connection. We want the world to know that our brand is committed to empowering women to take care of their physical and mental health in a supportive, mindful environment. Our story is one of friendship, shared vision, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of the women we serve. We believe that by nurturing ourselves and each other, we can create a ripple effect of positivity and strength in our communities.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friends came to visit Atlanta for a week, we’d create an experience that blends the city’s vibrant culture with its stunning natural beauty. We would start with brunch at one of our favorite spots before exploring some popular places like Piedmont Park, the High Museum, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. A stroll along the BeltLine would be a perfect way to soak in the local vibe, stopping for art, delicious bites, and a taste of Atlanta’s energy. Evenings would be reserved for unforgettable shows at the Fox Theatre or a candlelight concert at The Chapel.

We would have to complete our visit with immersing ourselves in Georgia’s beautiful outdoors. We’d spend a day hiking at Sweetwater Creek State Park or exploring the peaceful East Palisades Bamboo Forest, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature. By the end of the week, we’d have experienced the best of Atlanta—the lively energy of the city and the calming tranquility of its scenic trails—leaving us with lasting memories filled with both adventure and serenity.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Our shoutout is dedicated to the women of color who navigate spaces every day where they feel the constant pressure to keep going, even when rest feels out of reach. These women are our mirrors, our guideposts, and the source of strength that inspires us to continue spreading this message. We deeply value the efforts they pour into their families, friendships, entrepreneurial ventures, and workplaces. It is an honor to guide them in reconnecting with themselves by connecting with nature, offering moments of peace and mindfulness amidst the busyness of life.

Instagram: Soulsistashiketoo

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13052684/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085623343265

Other: https://heylo.group/soul-sistas-hike-too

Image Credits
Magalie Remy of JMRemy Photography

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