Nature is one of the greatest portals out of the busy, conceptualized, thinking mind and into Presence. Meditating in nature has a restorative effect on the mind, helps our bodies self-regulate, and can raise awareness and lower stress. It also opens us to a dimension/energy/resource much larger than ourselves that helps us to feel more grounded and connected.

This retreat is designed to help you to slow down, drop out of the thinking mind and into sense perceptions, connect with nature both within and around you, and become aware of the underlying presence that you are beyond whatever sensory experiences you might have.

Spend the morning in the beautiful Saratoga Spa State Park practicing mindfulness in nature with professionally certified and experienced mindfulness meditation teacher, Susan Meyer. In this small group event (limited to 8 participants), you will experiment with a variety of guided mindfulness practices to cultivate deep presence in nature, including:

• walking and standing meditation
• sensory awareness
• elemental connection
• artistic invitations.

We will alternate periods of walking at a slow or moderate pace with periods of sitting, standing, and mindful movement. There will be time available for mindful photography and/or journaling, to help you integrate and express your experience. We also will practice eating mindfully (BYO snack/lunch) and reflect on the morning.

This opportunity will be limited to 8 participants. The entire program will take place outdoors, and face coverings will not be required. However, we will space ourselves in accordance with CDC safety guidelines.

Please wear comfortable clothing, including footwear that can be removed easily and can get wet. Remember to bring a water bottle, sunscreen, insect/tick repellent, lunch, a notebook and pen, a camera (optional), and a blanket to sit on. We will be moving around, so carrying everything in a backpack is highly recommended.

Exact meeting location will be emailed to you upon registering and will NOT require you to pay the park entrance fee.

In case of rain, the event will be postponed to the following day (Thursday, July 8). A determination will be made by 7 AM regarding whether the event will take place as scheduled or be postponed.

Please register through Eventbrite or by sending payment via Paypal or Venmo. Cost is $30/person or $50/couple. (Couple pricing is not available through Eventbrite.) For addition payment options, email Susan.