Winkler Botanical Preserve

Welcome spring growth and balance with nature therapy at Winkler Botanical Preserve, where you'll experience deeper connections with nature, yourself, and community during this special spring equinox weekend gathering! Also known as "forest bathing," this mindful practice, with certified nature therapy guide Ilana Rubin of Kindred Nature, invites you to immerse your senses in the natural world, release stress, and witness the awakening energy of early spring as new life emerges in the preserve.

About Nature Therapy

Nature therapy, also known as forest therapy or forest bathing, draws inspiration from the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. Through mindful and sensory nature connection invitations, we create space to slow down and reconnect—with nature, with ourselves, and with each other. This practice helps us rediscover our sense of belonging within the natural world and our community. Research shows that nature therapy naturally reduces stress, restores focus, boosts creativity and mood, and supports immune health.

Your Experience

During our time together, you'll be invited to:

• Relax into guided mindfulness practices
• Discover new ways to connect with spring's emerging energy through all your senses
• Witness the preserve's transformation as winter yields to spring
• Enjoy slow, peaceful walking in nature
• Reflect and share in a warm-hearted group
• Close with tea, light snacks, and gratitude

Each program offers a unique journey, co-created by the season, the location, the wildlife, and our group. We may walk about a mile or less at a relaxing pace, on a mix of terrain that can include both paved and unpaved paths. Every invitation is adaptable to your comfort level—no experience or special skills needed. Whether you're new to mindful nature connection practices or have joined us before, you're warmly welcomed to this experience.

Meet Your Guide

Ilana Rubin brings warmth and expertise as a certified nature and forest therapy guide and as the founder of Kindred Nature. Trained and certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs, Ilana established Kindred Nature in 2021 to replenish inner radiance, resilience, and belonging with nature and community through empowering and restorative experiences. She has guided many rejuvenating nature connection programs at NOVA Parks sites, as well as for diverse clients including the US Forest Service, the GW Office of Integrative Medicine and Health, families, couples, and individuals. Visit Kindred Nature to learn more about Ilana's work and philosophy.

Join Us!

• Registration: $35 per participant (ages 18 and up). All attendees are considered participants. Advance online registration required.
• Welcome: All adults are warmly invited - no previous experience or background needed!
• Meeting Point: Meet in front of Catherine's Lodge, the large wooden lodge a few minutes' walk from the parking lot.
• Bring: Water bottle, comfortable weather-appropriate clothing, and shoes for outdoors.
• Weather: Programs run rain or shine unless conditions are hazardous.
• Arrival: Please come 10-15 minutes early so we can begin our journey together.
• Special Requests: For dietary allergies or accommodation needs, please contact kindrednatureguide@gmail.com.