Would your community want to carve out times in their busy lives to simply be, breathe, and reflect? If so, please sign your Sacred Place up for a 90-minute immersion into a re-cultivation of mindfulness in nature.

We all came onto the planet alive, awake and connected to the splendor of the natural world. Unfortunately, over time, the pressures and conditioning of modern life dulls our senses and we “brush against the tree of forgetfulness” forgetting that inherent, inborn connection that we once knew. Finding time to connect with nature is an important aspect of self-care.

Furthermore, science correlates connecting to the natural world with positive psychological health and wellbeing (Mayer & Frantz, 2004).

Synthesizing principles and practices from ecopsychology, mindfulness, ontology, Chinese 5-element theory, sensory awareness training, and nature-centered contemplative practices such as Shinrin-yoku (Japanese forest bathing), you will be gently lead through exercises intended to connect you more deeply to the profound wisdom of the natural world, deepening your sense of oneness with all of life.

Over the course of our time, participants will experience:

• Mindful breathing techniques to help you center and become present,
• Mindful walking techniques to ground you on the earth,
• Sensory awareness practices to connect you to nature,
• Stillness and reflection exercises to increase your awareness and appreciation of your connectedness to the natural world.

Participants will receive a workbook and journal with 30 days of nature-based mindfulness practices to continue deepening their inquiry.

This program is now completed. 

This program is facilitated by Jill Wardell, Mindfulness Teacher/Coach and Wellness Coordinator, UMBC , supported by Sandra Abbott, Firesoul of the Joseph Beuys Sculpture Park, UMBC and funded by TKF Foundation’s Nature Sacred program.