Sustaining Community Engagement: Nurturing Our Resiliency Through Nature-Connection

Forest bathing, which is characterized by slow mindful movement, opening the senses, and present-moment awareness, has been found to improve mood, increase energy, and foster resiliency. Whether we are involved in environmental education, conservation, invasive species removal, or working to increase accessibility for people with disabilities within parks, we all need to find ways to nurture ourselves within community. We will explore ways to increase our "window of tolerance" through nature-based mindfulness practices. Mindful Nature Connection research will be reviewed in this 2.5 hr virtual “nature retreat." This program is designed to be inclusive of and accessible for people living with disability/ chronic illness. You can participate indoors with a houseplant while reclining, on a balcony with a view of trees, in a garden, or in a park with internet access. You will be guided through a series of nature-connection practices to calm the mind and body. We will conclude with a cedar tea ceremony shared online. Following this program of nature connection activities, participants will be encouraged to use these practices at False Creek or an alternative accessible green space. Information on accessibility of False Creek Park, public transit and site highlights will be provided. To register, please email anwp@ecowisdom.ca referencing "ANWP: False Creek"