Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department’s Lifelong Recreation division is hosting a series of field trips into local Lawrence woodlands and nature preserves as a way to cleanse the mind and body.
The lifelong recreation program is collaborating with Shannon Gorres, certified forest therapy guide, for this six-week series of Forest Bathing walks. The Forest Bathing series is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, a research-based framework for supporting healing and wellness through immersion in forests and other natural environments.
The walks will be slow and sensory, with specific practices for relaxation, awareness and wholeness. There will be several opportunities to reflect with the group during listening circles, guided meditation, and closing teatime.
Walks are scheduled 1-2:30 p.m. Thursdays, Sept. 30-Oct. 14. Participants 50 years-old and older may register for individual walks at $18 each. Class will meet at the trailhead before each walk, and will receive specific directions following registration.
To enroll online, please visit: http://lprd.org/activity?n=427473 or stop by any Parks and Recreation facility including: the Community Building, 115 West 11th St.; Sports Pavilion Lawrence®, 100 Rock Chalk Lane; East Lawrence Recreation Center, 1245 East 15th St.; Holcom Park Recreation Center, 2700 West 27th St.; Lawrence Indoor Aquatic Center, 4706 Overland Drive; or Prairie Park Nature Center, 2730 Harper St.
For more information, please contact Gayle Sigurdson, recreation programmer, gsigurdson@lawrenceks.org, (785) 832-7909.