POSTPONED—EcoWalk: Meditation in the Parks at Red Bug Slough

ATTENTION

Please note that this event has been postponed until further notice. For the safety and health of our customers, staff and community, UF/IFAS Extension and Sarasota County Government administrators have issued guidance that limits interaction with group settings in an effort to stem the coronavirus/COVID-19 outbreak. We are working on alternative course delivery methods, such as online/webinar offerings, and will provide information as it becomes available.

Join us for an exploration of finding peace within nature. We will draw upon many traditions and cultures for a non-denominational approach to connecting with ourselves and nature... and get healthier along the way! Register early through ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com to reserve your spot and receive notice of any changes.

If registration is full via ufsarasotaext.eventbrite.com, please try registering at the Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources events page at https://web1.vermontsystems.com/wbwsc/flsarasotawt.wsc/search.html. Scroll down to find "Nature Walks."

Many traditions use some form of meditation, focus, contemplation, reflection, or breath work to quiet the mind and center the body and spirit. Recent scientific research has shown that Shinrin yoku (a form of "forest bathing" practiced in Japan) decreases levels of cortisol- a stress hormone, lowers pulse rate and blood pressure, and decreases sympathetic nerve activity (our fight or flight response). Research also indicates being in nature increases brain alpha waves (relaxed awareness), improves concentration and problem-solving ability, improves self-esteem, and has immune system benefits that may decrease our risk for developing disease.

No prior experience needed. Recommended to wear comfortable, loose clothing and bring water and a portable chair or blanket to sit upon as we will stop to sit along the trail. Appropriate for ages 12-102. Be aware that there is limited parking at this location.

Instructor: Dr. Katherine Clements, UF/IFAS Extension Sarasotra County ecology and natural resources educator, or guest facilitator(s)

For questions or further information, please call 941-861-5000 or email sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu. If you require special accommodations to attend one of our events, please contact us in advance at 941-861-5000 or sarasota@ifas.ufl.edu.

NOTE: Classes and events may be canceled at any time due to low registration or other circumstances, with full refunds issued for paid events. Similar classes or events often are offered on future dates.

Keywords: EcoWalk, EcoWellness, nature, meditation, forest bathing