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Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
Autumn Equinox Morning Retreat: Nature Therapy, Story Weaving, and Herbal Wisdom
Next Date
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Reconnect with wisdom and creativity within you, nature, and community as we honor the balance of the equinox – between day and night, light and dark, growth and rest. Join us in the beautiful Meadowlark Botanical Gardens for a uniquely meaningful blend of multi-sensory mindful connection with nature, guided contemplative journaling and story weaving, herbal wisdom, and tea and light snacks.
What to Expect
- Nature therapy (forest bathing) invites us to reconnect with nature—and our own inner nature—supporting wellness, stress relief, creativity, focus, and belonging through mindful and sensory invitations.
- Story weaving blends contemplative journaling, deep listening, and gently guided sharing to craft new stories that honor our own and others’ voices. This practice is open to all. With no writing skill needed, story weaving can help us release perfectionism and honor authenticity.
- Herbal wisdom refers to the teachings that medicinal plants can offer us beyond the scientifically measurable effects on the human body. This includes potential emotional healing and traditional wisdom drawn from stories, mythology, and folklore.
- We’ll close our morning by savoring fresh tea and light snacks – including herbal culinary preparations – as we share reflections and a gratitude practice.
- We'll move gently—up to 1 mile on varied terrain—with every invitation adaptable.
- No experience needed; just bring your curiosity and presence.
Meet Your Guides
- Kay Sidahmed, PhD, MS, Clinical Herbalist, Forest Therapy Guide, and Founder of Cura Viriditas
- Ilana Rubin (she/her), MPA, Certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide, Story Weaving Facilitator, and Founder of Kindred Nature
Join Us!
- Registration: $60 early bird through September 1, or $70 starting September 2. Open to ages 16 and up. All attendees are registered participants, and minors must be registered and accompanied by a registered adult. Online registration is required.
- Arrival: We’ll meet at the Visitor Center and start check in 15 minutes before the program start time. Please give yourself time to arrive 10-15 minutes early so we can begin together.
Bring: A water bottle. - Wear: Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes for outdoors.
- Weather: The retreat will run rain or shine unless conditions are hazardous.
- Requests: For dietary allergies or accommodation needs, please contact Ilana at kindrednatureguide@gmail.com
- Location: Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is located off Beulah Road, at 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, in Vienna, Virginia.
