July 21st, 2024 | 10:00AM - 12:00PM
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

Nature play refers to the unstructured and creative exploration of natural environments, which fosters numerous physical, cognitive, and emotional benefits. Research has consistently shown that engaging in nature play enhances motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and cognitive flexibility in individuals. 

By immersing themselves in nature, participants develop a sense of connection and appreciation for the environment. Moreover, spending time outdoors allows individuals to exercise their senses and strengthen their immune system while reducing stress levels. This type of play taps into fundamental aspects of human nature – our innate curiosity, creativity, and need for connection with the natural world. Therefore, promoting and facilitating nature play not only supports holistic development but also nurtures a deep-rooted bond between humans and their environment.

August 18th, 2024 | 10:00AM - 12:00PM
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

Nature play refers to the unstructured and creative exploration of natural environments, which fosters numerous physical, cognitive, and emotional benefits. Research has consistently shown that engaging in nature play enhances motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and cognitive flexibility in individuals. 

By immersing themselves in nature, participants develop a sense of connection and appreciation for the environment. Moreover, spending time outdoors allows individuals to exercise their senses and strengthen their immune system while reducing stress levels. This type of play taps into fundamental aspects of human nature – our innate curiosity, creativity, and need for connection with the natural world. Therefore, promoting and facilitating nature play not only supports holistic development but also nurtures a deep-rooted bond between humans and their environment.

September 8th, 2024 @ 11:00AM & 2:00 PM
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

The mindful walking meet-up promotes inner peace, focus, and connection with the surrounding environment. This unique occasion draws upon the principles of mindfulness meditation, encouraging participants to engage in deliberate and conscious walking, fostering a deeper connection with nature and appreciation for the present moment. The mindful walking meet-up provides an opportunity for participants to recharge their minds, improve mental well-being, and develop skills that can positively impact both personal and professional aspects of their lives.

September 22nd, 2024 | 9:00AM - 12:00PM
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

The autumnal equinox is a significant celestial event that occurs when the plane of the Earth's equator passes through the center of the Sun, marking the beginning of fall in the northern hemisphere and spring in the southern hemisphere. Within this natural cycle, forest therapy and mindfulness practices can offer profound benefits for individuals seeking to connect with nature and nurture their mental wellbeing.

Forest therapy, also known as shinrin-yoku or forest bathing, involves immersing oneself in a forest environment to improve overall health. Scientific studies have shown that spending time in nature can reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, boost immune function, and enhance creativity. Moreover, when combined with mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing exercises and sensory awareness activities, forest therapy enables individuals to be fully present in the moment and cultivate a deeper connection with themselves and their surroundings.

October 2nd, 2024 | 10:30AM - 12:00PM
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

Information overload day is an important concept in today's technologically advanced society. With the constant bombardment of information from various sources such as social media, news outlets, and emails, individuals are faced with an overwhelming amount of data to process. This phenomenon can negatively impact mental health, productivity, and overall well-being. To combat this issue, practices such as forest therapy and mindfulness have gained popularity. 

Forest therapy involves immersing oneself in nature and utilizing its calming and therapeutic effects to reduce stress and promote relaxation. On the other hand, mindfulness emphasizes being fully present in the moment without judgment or distraction. Incorporating these practices into one's daily routine can help individuals manage information overload by providing a much-needed break from technology and fostering a sense of tranquility amidst the chaos. By taking deliberate steps to prioritize mental well-being through reducing information overload through activities like forest therapy and mindfulness we can achieve greater clarity, focus, and productivity in our professional lives.

October 6th, 2024 @ 2:00 PM
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

The mindful walking meet-up promotes inner peace, focus, and connection with the surrounding environment. This unique occasion draws upon the principles of mindfulness meditation, encouraging participants to engage in deliberate and conscious walking, fostering a deeper connection with nature and appreciation for the present moment. The mindful walking meet-up provides an opportunity for participants to recharge their minds, improve mental well-being, and develop skills that can positively impact both personal and professional aspects of their lives.

November 3rd, 2024 | 2:00PM - 3:00PM
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

The mindful walking meet-up promotes inner peace, focus, and connection with the surrounding environment. This unique occasion draws upon the principles of mindfulness meditation, encouraging participants to engage in deliberate and conscious walking, fostering a deeper connection with nature and appreciation for the present moment. The mindful walking meet-up provides an opportunity for participants to recharge their minds, improve mental well-being, and develop skills that can positively impact both personal and professional aspects of their lives.

November 29th, 2024 | 10:30AM - 12:00PM
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

Green Friday is a term used to describe an alternative shopping experience that encourages people to spend time in nature instead of engaging in the consumerist frenzy typically associated with Black Friday. It promotes spending time in nature as a means of fostering wellbeing and reducing stress during the holiday season. Forest therapy, also known as Shinrin-yoku, originated in Japan and involves immersing oneself in nature and mindfully connecting with the surroundings. 

Research has shown that spending time in natural environments can have numerous physical and psychological benefits, including decreased blood pressure, reduced stress hormone levels, improved focus, and increased feelings of relaxation and calm. Incorporating mindfulness techniques enhances this experience by directing one's attention to the present moment and heightening awareness of sensations, thoughts, and emotions. By embracing Green Friday and practicing forest therapy with mindfulness, individuals can prioritize their mental health while still celebrating the holiday season.

December 8th, 2024 | 2:00PM - 3:00PM
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

The mindful walking meet-up promotes inner peace, focus, and connection with the surrounding environment. This unique occasion draws upon the principles of mindfulness meditation, encouraging participants to engage in deliberate and conscious walking, fostering a deeper connection with nature and appreciation for the present moment. The mindful walking meet-up provides an opportunity for participants to recharge their minds, improve mental well-being, and develop skills that can positively impact both personal and professional aspects of their lives.

December 21st, 2024 | 1:00PM - 4:00PM
Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center

Winter solstice, also known as the shortest day and longest night of the year, holds significant cultural and spiritual importance worldwide. It marks a turning point in the natural cycle, where the sun's presence begins to slowly regain strength.

In recent years, individuals seeking reprieve from the hustle and bustle of modern life have turned to forest therapy and mindfulness practices during this time. Forest therapy involves immersing oneself in nature by mindfully experiencing its sights, sounds, and smells, which has been shown to reduce stress levels and promote overall well-being. Pairing this practice with mindfulness techniques further enhances one's ability to be fully present in the moment- carefully observing their thoughts, sensations, and emotions that arise without judgment or attachment.