About Third Ward Zen
Third Ward Zen is a nonprofit organization rooted in the Mississippi Delta and dedicated to fostering community well-being through holistic wellness practices, mindfulness, and nutrition. At the heart of our mission is a deep respect for the rich cultural traditions of the African Diaspora, which we celebrate and integrate into every aspect of our work.
We champion wellness
by encouraging mindfulness, movement, healthy eating, and self-reliance through growing your own food. Through this, we aim to cultivate connection, gratitude, peace, and wisdom in the communities we serve.
Our key initiatives—including the Delta Roots Festival, Cookbook Club Sunday Dinner, the Table & Plate
Project Delta Podcast, and our growing collection of publications—invite people to come together, learn,
& thrive.
“Everything we do is rooted in a simple goal: to foster
gratitude, peace, and wisdom in the community.”
Founder, Third Ward Zen
Born and raised
in Houston, Texas
Dr. Ellen Harris developed an early passion for food and nutrition in a home where meals were both flavorful and intentional. Her mother, a talented cook for some of the city’s wealthiest families, often served those same dishes at home—sparking thoughtful conversations about healthy eating and the importance of color and balance on the plate. This early exposure to food as both nourishment and culture set Dr. Harris on a lifelong path of service and scholarship.
Three Blessings
Yoga Farm & Wellness Center
In addition to founding Third Ward Zen, Dr. Ellen Harris also established Three Blessings Yoga Farm and Wellness Center—a sanctuary in Greenville, Mississippi, dedicated to supporting women on their journey toward physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Nestled in a serene natural setting, Three Blessings offers a peaceful space for women to explore yoga, mindfulness, and holistic living.
The Center hosts yoga classes, wellness workshops, Thai Yoga Bodywork, and gardening experiences—all designed to rejuvenate the body, calm the mind, and nourish the spirit. More than just a retreat, it’s a vibrant space for learning, reflection, and discovering your own path to Zen.
