June 6-9, 2024 Yoga Journal’s #1 yoga festival you need to know about. Join us for four days of world-class yoga instruction, authentic connection and guided adventure in beautiful Bend, Oregon. You are welcome here.
As with all things in life, this schedule is subject to change. While it’s unlikely to happen, we invite you to practice aparigraha and santosha if it does.
All events are rain or shine; be prepared with layers for rapid temperature changes, with the exception of lightning, which if forecasted, may require cancellation of a paddle session.
This practice is based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku, meaninng "Forest Bath". Forest bathing is a practice that started in Japan where participants immerse themselves in the forest atmosphere. There is no water involved as the bathing refers to immersing oneself in Phytoncides, a group of chemicals which plants use to communicate. These chemicals have been shown to have a positive impact on our human bodies and mind by increasing immune response, reducing anxiety, depression, and fatigue just to name a few. During this walk you will be guided into presence through sensory based practices which will ease tension, rest your mind and body, and nourish your heart and soul. The goal of forest bathing is simple: fully experience the present moment while immersing your senses in the sights, sounds, and feels of nature. This is a walk with nature as opposed to a walk in nature.This experience is guided by Missie Wikler, a Certified Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy, ANFT.
We will walk a total of 1.5 - 2.5 miles during the 2 hour session at a slow pace. The trail is mostly flat with some rocks and uneven terrain.
Bring: Sturdy shoes and water; wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty.
We will meet in Riverbend Park where we will share introductions and chat about what we will experience today. We will walk onto the trail for a forest immersion meditation where we will ground down and connect with our Earth. I will offer a series of invitations, each to guide you in deepening your connection with our forest home through sensory practices. We will end with a Forest Tea Ceremony followed by a wander back to Riverbend Park.
