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Winkler Botanical Preserve

Winter Solstice Forest Bathing: Finding Peace and Belonging with Nature

autumn scenes in the woods and bird on a branch
Next Date
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This winter solstice, join us to reconnect with nature and yourself through a peaceful, stress-relieving forest bathing experience at Winkler Botanical Preserve!

Experience forest bathing to connect more deeply with nature, release stress, and enjoy winter in the park! Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing is a way to immerse your senses in the natural world. Slow down, relax, and join certified forest bathing guide Ilana Rubin of Kindred Nature for a guided slow wander with simple sensory and mindful activities.

 
Forest bathing, also known as forest therapy or nature therapy, is a practice of immersing ourselves in the natural world through our senses. Through a series of invitations - gentle mindful and sensory activity prompts - participants can slow down, tune into their senses and the present moment, and reconnect with nature. Through this practice, we can enjoy some of the many benefits of forest bathing, such as reducing stress, restoring focus, boosting creativity and mood, and supporting immune health.

 
This forest bathing program at Winkler Botanical Preserve will weave together several activities, including guided meditation, slow guided walking, local sustainably sourced tea, and individual and group activities that connect us with nature through sights, sounds, textures, smells, imagination, and feeling. The guide will provide invitations or prompts for nature connection practices such as new ways to learn about a tree or creating temporary nature art. All of the invitations are adaptable for each person to participate in the way that is best for them. The forest bathing walk will cover less than a mile at a slow pace on paved and unpaved gentle trails. All adults are very welcome to register and join us for this program. There is no background, experience, or skill level needed.


Registration Required

Enjoy three unique holiday experiences in Northern Virginia.

NOVA Parks' holiday light shows are NOW OPEN! Buy your tickets today to reserve your preferred date and time! *Meadowlark's Winter Walk of Lights, Vienna, VA *Bull Run Festival of Lights, Centreville, VA *Ice & Lights—The Winter Village at Cameron Run, Alexandria, VA