A growing women’s wellness initiative rooted in resilience and community empowerment returned to Lake Katherine Nature Center on April 25, bringing together movement, education and outdoor connection through the “SHE CAN! Yoga & Bike Mechanics 101” event.
The gathering was part of the broader She CAN! Movement, a wellness and empowerment platform founded by Palos Park resident Erin Stevenson. The initiative was born out of Stevenson’s personal journey living with multiple sclerosis while training for a Half Ironman, an experience that she has described as the catalyst for building a supportive community focused on strength, goal-setting and self-belief.
Since its launch, She CAN! has expanded into a series of events designed to help women “move, learn, connect and dream bigger,” combining fitness, mentorship and wellness education. The movement emphasizes that women are stronger together, building confidence through shared experiences and practical skills.
Saturday’s program reflected that mission.
The morning began with an all-levels outdoor yoga session designed to promote strength, mindfulness and physical awareness. Participants moved through a guided flow surrounded by the natural landscape of Lake Katherine, easing into a day centered on both personal wellness and community engagement.
Following yoga, participants shifted gears for Bike Mechanics 101, led by Mark Payares of Lotus 1 Multisport. The workshop provided hands-on instruction in basic bicycle maintenance, including safety checks, tire care and seasonal readiness tips aimed at helping riders feel more confident heading into spring and summer cycling.
Stevenson organized the event and said the combination of yoga and bike education reflected the movement’s broader philosophy that wellness includes both physical preparedness and mental confidence.
The event concluded with an optional group ride along the Cal-Sag Trail, where participants put their new skills into practice while riding in community.
Since its early gatherings, She CAN! has continued to grow as a network for women seeking encouragement, connection and practical tools for personal growth, with events that blend fitness, outdoor activity and peer support into a single shared experience.
Saturday’s session reinforced that message, leaving participants with both new skills and a renewed sense of momentum heading into the riding season.