Upcoming Groups, Workshops & Retreats

Winter 2018

Reducing Anxiety and Depression: 10-week Mind-body therapy group for Teens (14-18)

Wednesdays, 4-6 pm, February 6 to April 17, 2019, in Markham

Offered through the Chrysalis Centre for Psychological and Counselling Services. Contact me for more information.

Winter mindfulness in nature offerings at the Kortright Centre for Conservation

Winter Forest Therapy Walks at Kortright

Held monthly on Sundays, 10:00 am to 12:30 pm

Upcoming walks: Sunday March 3rd and Sunday March 31st

Cost: $39+HST

Forest therapy is a concept based upon the Japanese practice of shinrin yoku (“forest bathing”), the practice of immersing yourself in nature – or more specifically the forest – and connecting with the forest in a deep, gentle way that allows for inner and outer healing.

A forest therapy walk isn’t simply a walk in the forest – it’s a slow, intentional journey – with various mindful and nature connection practices integrated – that engages every one of our senses, and allows for deep healing and connection. We don’t travel very far in this walk – we learn that a little actually goes a long way for us, and the importance of “slowing down.”

Each 2.5 hour walk is an immersive mindfulness experience in the forest, no matter what the season. The walks are guided and much of the walk is in silence. Different invitations and practices are inbuilt – in order to foster greater connection with the forest and with yourself – and you will also participate in walking and sitting meditation. However, everything is invitational and, as with all mindfulness practices, you are encouraged to take care of yourself and your needs.

Each walk ends with a ritual tea (or hot cocoa) ceremony and sharing of our experiences, to honour the collective experience and the land that supports us.

Yoga and Forest Therapy 3-hour Mini Retreat

Sunday, February 10, 2019, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

Cost: $49+HST

This 3-hour mini retreat will begin with a gentle hatha yoga practice (suitable for all levels) held indoors by a cozy fireplace – and then transition to a forest therapy walk outdoors. Feel restored, invigorated and nourished – inspired by the forest and by the process of connecting with stillness and balancing the body, mind and soul. No previous experience is necessary; designed for adults of all ages and abilities. Mature kids and teens are also welcome. Limited spaces available.

Mindfulness in Nature Silent Retreat

Sunday, February 24, 2019, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm

Cost: $59+HST

Spring 2019

Naturally Mindful: 6-week Introduction to Mindfulness meditation in nature

This unique 6-week course will help you to cultivate the practice and attitudes of mindfulness meditation in daily life by learning from your own experiences and from the wisdom of nature.

Spring course at the Kortright Centre for Conservation

Fridays, 10-12, March 29 to May 10, 2019 (Silent retreat: Sunday May 5, 10-3)

Cost: $299+HST

To register, visit: https://kortright.org/whats-on/calendar/ or call 905-832-2289

For further information please contact me.

Mindfulness and Compassion Group for Adults

Tuesday evenings 6:00 to 8:00 pm, March 26 to May 14, 2019

Silent retreat: Thursday May 2, 5 to 9 pm

Please see flyer: Mindfulness_Adultgroup_flyer_Spring2019

Upcoming offerings by friends

Mindfulness Everyday’s Upcoming SMART Education courses

http://www.mindfulnesseveryday.org/schedule.html#CoursesForEducators

Healing In Nature Bereavement Network

Offering nature-based walking groups in Rouge Park, for youth and young adults who have experienced loss

An innovative not-for-profit project that provides grief support using nature as a catalyst. I am very happy to support this amazing offering by co-founders Paula and Michael, and I feel humbled and grateful to have met these two lovely individuals and nature-lovers, who took my Naturally Mindful course at Kortright Centre in Fall 2017!

Please see their website for more information and details about their upcoming walking groups: http://bereavementnetwork.ca/