On this meditative walk, you’ll observe wildlife, sit by a soothing waterfall, and be guided through mindfulness meditations.
We’re partnering with Thomas Memorial Library for an amble through the woods. Through this slow and mindful practice, you’ll deepen your relationship with yourself and the land you inhabit. After some guided breathing and gentle movement, we’ll amble along the trail, engaging our curiosity, awakening our senses, and enjoying the serenity of Robinson Woods. No previous meditation experience is necessary, all are welcome!
WHAT IS FOREST BATHING?
Forest bathing comes from the Japanese term, Shinrin-yoku. The phrase simply means “taking in the forest atmosphere”. The modern techniques of forest bathing as a preventative medicine were developed in Japan in the 1980s, though they were developed from the ancient arts of mindfulness and meditation.
IMPORTANT EVENT INFORMATION
This event will be held in all weather conditions. If the event needs to be canceled due to dangerous weather or temperature, you will be notified via email.
Choose footwear and clothing layers appropriate for the weather and uneven trails.
If you are able to sit on the ground, please bring a trail seat or blanket to sit on.
ACCESSIBILITY NOTE
Cost: This event has been generously sponsored by Thomas Memorial Library and is free for everyone.
Parking: We will be meeting at the Robinson Woods Trailhead. There is a small dirt parking lot right next to the trailhead.
Trail: This walk might be wheelchair accessible for some. It will be slow and meandering over a short distance, not a hike. In total, we’ll traverse about 1 mile, and throughout the practice, there will be many moments to rest. The path is a mix of hard packed gravel road and wooded trail. It has an average elevation of 13 feet with a maximum grade of 0%. There is a wide boardwalk-style bridge to cross the trail that is level to the ground. To preview the trail from the lens of a wheelchair-user, Enok Glidden wrote an article for Maine Trail Finder. We will be going to the pond area and then turning around.
Sensory Activities: Throughout the meditation, participants will be invited to explore the space using their senses of hearing, sight, smell, and touch. Participation in any of these activities is not required and can be adapted for those with sensory impairments or difficulties.
Restrooms: There is no restroom for this event.
About Kaneel
Kaneel offers guided mindfulness practices in natural settings throughout the state of Maine. It has grown out of a dedication to learning, sustaining, and celebrating all that the more-than-human world is willing to share with us. Through our offerings, we encourage people to connect with the natural world in meaningful ways so they may become active stewards of our planet.
Kaneel’s founder and owner, Davinica Nemtzow, is a Jewish educator, certified Mindful Outdoor Guide from the Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health, and a proud Mainer. She is dedicated to bringing together community in inclusive, fulfilling, and creative ways.