I probably rely a little too heavily on my smartphone. As many of us can attest, they are used for way more than making phone calls these days. I know mine regularly serves as a pocket-sized computer for looking up information, a handheld gaming and entertainment device, and even a navigation system for car rides to new places. (And since I am new to the ATL, my GPS feature is used more frequently than ever!)

Another cool thing about these technological times we’re living in is how many apps are created with location-based audiences in mind. In fact, there are several that are designed specifically for Atlanta residents. Here are a few I’ve come across since taking up residence in Dogwood City:

• MARTA on the Go. This tool will help users find up-to-date Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) information, including schedules and route maps.
• Atlanta Baseball. Are you a diehard Braves fan? This app will keep you updated on the team’s latest scores and news.
• Falcons Mobile. Those rooting for a Falcons Super Bowl win will love having team updates sent straight to their mobile device.
• InstaCart. This service delivers groceries to those whose refrigerator may be a little bare, but don’t have time to make a trip to the supermarket.
• WSB Traffic. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t absolutely hate sitting in the middle of a traffic jam. This app from Action News 2 will help you find the best way to get from A to B.
• AJC.com. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has a mobile news app that will keep you informed of the latest headlines when you’re on the go.
• Fox 5 Storm Team. View current weather predictions as well as extended forecasts with this local weather tool.
• Atlanta XPLRR. This app will ensure that locals and visitors alike never run out of fun things to do in the A.
• Atlanta Channel. Visitors and city newbies can learn all about the exciting and entertaining attractions and activities Atlanta has to offer.

Do you use a handy Atlanta app that I’ve left off of this list? Please let me know, and I can share it with other Atlantans in a future post!

Being a career girl, I know the importance of building relationships. Professional relationships are, of course, important for client retention and working productively and peacefully with co-workers. But the connections we establish outside of our office with other industry superstars can help us grow professionally and may even present us with opportunities to spread our wings and move on to bigger and better things.

Building a professional network is especially important after relocating. Having recently moved to Atlanta, I looked into some of the networking opportunities that we have here. Here are a few I found that are worth checking out:

• Atlanta Under 40: This group is for young professionals looking to expand their reach with other like-minded individuals.
• Atlanta After Work: This local chapter of Network After Work holds events for members at various Atlanta hotspots.
• Metro Atlanta Chamber: MAC offers multiple monthly events designed to “enrich and enhance your professional life.”
• The Atlanta Professionals Business and Social Networking: This Meetup group promises to help you expand your professional horizons in a fun, friendly atmosphere.
• NetParty Atlanta Young Professionals: These events are known for emphasizing the fun factor while helping young professionals make meaningful connections.
• Atlanta Business League: ABL has been an affiliate of the National Business League since 1933. Its mission is to foster “the growth, creation and development of successful business enterprises owned, operated and managed by African-Americans in metropolitan Atlanta.”
• Eventbrite, Atlanta Event and Meetup: These websites offer up-to-date information on some of the local events going on that provide networking opportunities to Atlantans.

Whatever your profession—or even if you’re looking to dabble in something new—it can be extremely beneficial to give networking a try. If you know of a great group or meeting that’s open to new members, please let me know by leaving a comment below so I can share it in a future blog post!

I moved to Atlanta for work, and while I love my new job, I’m always in need of a little rest and relaxation by the time the weekend rolls around. As a wellness enthusiast, I understand the importance of finding ways to let your mind and body take a breather from time to time. Luckily, there are many great ways to unwind in Atlanta:

Meditation. As HeadSpace.com notes meditation has many benefits, including reducing stress, increasing creativity, and improving one’s ability to focus. There are several meditation centers in Atlanta. For example, Shambhala Meditation Center, Kadampa Meditation Center, and the Atlanta Soto Zen Center, all offer opportunities to learn more about meditation and to meditate in structured classes and workshops. You might also try one of the many meditation MeetUps the city has to offer.

Yoga. I’m a bit of a self-proclaimed yogi. I love yoga, yes, but more than that, I need to do it. It keeps me sane. For the uninitiated, like meditation, yoga is a great way to manage stress and anxiety, but it allows you to do so while also becoming physically stronger. One of the first things I did when I arrived in Atlanta was seek out a studio where I could continue my practice. If you aren’t sure where to go, CBS Atlanta offers its assessment of the city’s best studios. Here they are:

• Balance Yoga Atlanta
• Decatur Yoga and Pilates
• Stillwater Yoga Studio
• West Coast Workout

And if you’re a yogi on a budget, not to worry. DailyCandy.com provides information on locations around the city where local studios provide free classes and local studio, Nirvana Yoga, offers a $5 community class.

Sight-see. Whether you’re a newcomer like me or a local, there are many incredible attractions in Atlanta and some are surprisingly relaxing. For example, GAFollowers.com suggests visiting the Georgia Aquarium or Centennial Olympic Park, when you’re in need of some down time. Atlanta.net also offers some relaxing outdoor options. For example, you could stroll through the city’s botanical garden, watch the sunset from Jackson Street Bridge, or let the animals at Zoo Atlanta lift your spirits.

Atlanta is an amazing city, but sometimes city life can be stressful. When you seek out places to unwind, you can experience ATL with a whole new perspective.