In June we have a series of opportunities from experiencing first time “Forest Bathing” walks, to further explorations of “Nature and Forest Therapy” for those who want more! These events will provide specific opportunities for individuals interested in discovering more of the science back of Forest Therapy as well as opportunities for those interested in nature writing and nature drawing in a “sit spot” of choice, ending in a tea ceremony.  Also, in June we will introduce our first of Sunday “sacred saunters” providing space for contemplation and reflection in nature, opening and closing with a sharing circle. Each of these offerings will be led by Mattie Decker and will allow plenty of space for individual exploration in ways that respect each person’s unique needs.

Sunday, June 27: 2:00 – 4:30 p.m. Sunday Sauntering

“People ought to saunter – not hike! Do you know the origin of that word ‘saunter?’ It’s a beautiful word. Back in the Middle Ages people used to go on pilgrimages to the Holy Land, and when people in the villages through which they passed asked where they were going, they would reply, “A la sainte terre,’ ‘To the Holy Land.’ And so they became known as sainte-terre-ers or saunterers. Now these [trees] are our Holy Land, and we ought to saunter through them reverently, not ‘hike’ through them.”- John Muir

Mattie is a certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide. She is also a Zen practitioner, an Episcopal oblate, and a retired education professor, and she is certified in wilderness first aid. This event is one of our monthly forest bathing walks. Forest bathing is a practice from Japan that has been gaining attention in the West. Forest bathing is not about getting exercise. It’s not about hiking to get somewhere. It’s about being present in the forest, taking it in. It’s about creating relationships between humans and the more-than-human world.

Registration is required.

A donation of $30 is suggested for forest bathing walks, for those who are able. Donations are not required and the amount of your gift is entirely up to you. Donations of $35 or more will include Conserving Carolina membership benefits.

Donate here

LEARN MORE ABOUT Forest bathing

RSVP Below

The RSVP period closes at 10AM on Friday, June 25th.