Do you ever feel you need to show up a certain way in order to be loved or accepted, to have connection or be approved of. Have you ever felt it’s not ok to be your full authentic self? What if all of you was welcome? What if you didn’t have to worry about doing it “right”? Together we’ll create a container where you don’t have to hide. You get to experience the richness of both your inner and outer worlds in community as we calm our nervous systems in the healing embrace of nature.
Sign up through:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/659869085197
“You may imagine a walk in nature as hearing and seeing interesting facts about local flora and fauna. But you haven't yet taken a walk with Gregg. He includes the "deeper you" in his experiences. His gentle invitations prompt us to not only see nature from a different perspective but also just BE in nature and express ourselves from that place. With Gregg we become attuned together in nature. This is what is really special about walks with Gregg. We find ourselves tuning into the people we came with in delightful, unanticipated ways. Gregg's walks are ideal for families that are longing for simple ways to just be together without cell phone interruptions from young and old. Whether you're a group with members who know each other well or a group of people just getting to know each other, Gregg provides wonderfully connective experiences wrapped in Nature Herself.”
-Eric P.
We’ll increase our energy flow and state of happiness as we bathe our senses in the style of Shinrin-Yoku.
Our guided mindfulness-based walk will take us through Monterey Cypress Forests above the ocean at Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in Moss Beach. We'll also spend time on a beautiful secluded white sand beach as we connect with a blue mind experience. Each transition bringing new wonders and a deeper connection with ourselves.
Each ecosystem full of life filled with myriad delightful sights and sounds unique to that locale. You'll be guided through invitations to deepen your experience of nature in unique ways, which may be both playful and introspective. No need to worry about doing it "right" as you can make the invitations your own.
As we drop into the beauty and stillness of the forest and the sea, and we'll pause as a group to connect deeper through sharing our experiences both internal and external.
We combine elements of authentic relating, mindfulness and somatics to strengthen our connections with each other and the world around us.
Each time I embark on one of these adventures, I feel inspired by the group and what we create together.
From the shares that happen in the circles where we give each other permission to be our full authentic selves to the serenity of connection with the land in new and unique ways.
We'll literally get to drink in the forest. Our walk will end with tasty snacks and delicious tea made from foraged plants (with immune boosting and stomach healing properties) and served in handmade tea cups. A sense of calm and inner peace will be a gift we’ll take with us.
Other things to note:
All activity levels welcome—no hiking experience required. Dress in layers in case of cold, fog, or rain. We'll limit electronic use. Bring water, hiking snacks, a mask (all covid precautions are taken) and your sense of awe and wonder.
Come feed your soul and experience the joy and relaxation of getting to be your full self.
Sign up through:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/659869085197
"What are some of the benefits of Forest Bathing?", you ask. Well I'm so glad you asked!
Forest Bathing, also known as Shinrin-yoku, is an ancient Japanese practice that involves immersing oneself in the therapeutic atmosphere of a forest. It's not about hiking or intense physical activity; rather, it's a gentle, mindful way of connecting with nature. The primary focus is to absorb the forest's ambiance, breathe in its fragrant air, and engage all your senses to foster a profound sense of well-being.
A Symphony of Sensory Delights:
Imagine stepping into a serene woodland, enveloped by a lush green canopy above and embraced by the symphony of rustling leaves beneath your feet. The crisp, invigorating scent of pine wafts through the air, mingling with the gentle melodies of birdsong. Each breath you take is infused with the soothing essence of nature, calming your racing thoughts and grounding you in the present moment.
The Profound Benefits:
1)Stress Relief and Improved Mental Well-being: Forest Bathing is a powerful stress-buster. As you wander through the tranquil forest, surrounded by natural beauty, your cortisol levels decrease, and your body begins to relax. Studies have shown that this immersion in nature helps reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance overall mental well-being.
2)Boosted Immune System: The forest air is rich in phytoncides, natural essential oils emitted by trees, which have antimicrobial properties. Breathing in these aromatic compounds during your forest bathing experience can enhance your immune system, helping to ward off illnesses and infections.
3)Increased Energy and Vitality: Spending time in nature replenishes your energy reserves and revitalizes your spirit. The calm, soothing environment of the forest allows you to unwind and recharge, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle life's challenges with renewed vigor.
4)Heightened Creativity and Focus: Forest Bathing stimulates the mind, awakening your creativity and enhancing cognitive function. Research suggests that spending time in nature enhances attention span, memory, and problem-solving abilities. So, if you're in need of a burst of inspiration or struggling to concentrate, the forest is your ultimate muse!
5)Improved Physical Health: Forest Bathing offers numerous physical health benefits. Walking along forest trails provides low-impact exercise that strengthens muscles and improves cardiovascular health. The forest's clean air and negative ions promote better respiratory function, leading to improved lung capacity and overall lung health.
To embark on your forest bathing adventure, all you need is an open mind, comfortable clothing, and a willingness to immerse yourself in nature. Slow down your pace, engage your senses, and allow yourself to be fully present in the moment. Gently touch the bark of trees, listen intently to the sounds of nature, breathe deeply, and absorb the beauty around you. Unplug from technology and let the forest guide you towards a state of serenity and harmony.
Forest Bathing offers a transformative journey to a world where stress melts away, and a profound sense of calm and vitality takes its place. The beauty and healing power of nature await your embrace, promising countless benefits for your overall well-being. So, step into the embrace as we explore permission to be our full selves.