Honoring ancient human practices of nature connection that are reflected in ancestral Indigenous Knowledge all over the world. A slow, immersive nature connection walk or gathering. You will be given directions, in the form of an invitation, that is meant to assist you in relaxing, and observing with all of your senses. Unlike a naturalist walk, it isn’t so much about knowing all of the names of the plants, as it is about noticing which plants that you feel pulled to. It is more about being “here” in the present moment, then it is about being “there”. You may begin to notice things in a way that you may not have ever noticed them before. An integrative mindfulness practice that can help us to let all of the miscellaneous fall away. Experience the health benefits of Forest Bathing. It is a kind of nervous system “reset”, and has been shown to lower stress hormone production, anxiety, influence immune defense, elevate mood states, creativity, and cognition. It has the potential to remind us of the Interconnection of All Things and our relationship to the Earth.
In celebration of "OAKtober" this Nature Immersion event will conclude with a ceremonial tree planting in the Taft Nature Preserve Oak restoration area.
Please:
- Avoid strong perfumes, as they can affect sensory perception of smells in nature
- Leave your dog at home
What to bring:
- Water
- Important medications (bring EpiPen if you are allergic to wasp, hornet, or bee stings)
- Comfortable closed toe walking shoes. (Boots that cover up the ankle are recommended during rattlesnake season in early spring and summer.)
- Comfortable layered clothing so you may adjust to weather and/or temperature as needed.
- A day pack, back pack, fanny pack, OR “easy to carry” bag in which to keep your things.
Optional considerations:
- You will be invited to sit on the ground at times. There may (or may not) be chairs or benches. It may (or may not) be damp in certain places. Some people like to bring something to sit on like a “lightweight folding camping stool”, a “sit-upon”, a yoga mat, or a towel that is easy to carry. Some people don’t bring anything at all. It is up to you.
- Insect repellent (seasons change, and opinions vary.)
- A walking stick if you find it helpful. Terrain may vary and be rocky or uneven.
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- A journal for writing or sketching