Meadowlark Botanical Gardens

Enjoy a grounding and revitalizing experience among the serene landscape of Meadowlark Botanical Gardens as the earth settles into winter. This restorative journey blends mindful movement with nature therapy to support both stability and renewal. Through gentle movement, guided forest immersion, and sensory awareness, connect with the steady presence of the earth below us while embracing the energy of the winter solstice.

Your Experience

Guided by Lauren Lang (Within Nature’s Embrace) and Ilana Rubin (Kindred Nature), you will be led through simple movements using all your senses to help you connect with yourself and nature followed by a warm-hearted group reflection and sharing. We may take a gentle walk of about a mile on a mix of paved and unpaved paths at a comfortable pace. The experience will end with tea, light snacks, and gratitude.

About Mindful Movement and Nature Therapy

This experience integrates the practices of mindful movement and nature therapy. Mindful movement is the practice of moving with awareness, intention, and presence. It encourages us to slow down, tune into our bodies, and connect with the present moment. Unlike traditional exercise focused on intensity or outcomes, mindful movement emphasizes how the movement feels in the present moment.

Also known as forest therapy, forest bathing or shinrin-yoku, nature therapy offers a restorative way to reduce stress, boost creativity, and rediscover your connection with the natural world. This experience is designed for all abilities and welcomes anyone seeking deep connection, inner peace, and a fresh start. 

Meet Your Guides

Ilana Rubin is a certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide, Facilitator, and Founder of Kindred Nature. Trained and certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs, Ilana founded Kindred Nature in 2021 to replenish inner radiance, resilience, and belonging with nature and community through empowering and restorative experiences.

Lauren Lang is a certified yoga instructor and ANFT Nature and Forest Therapy Guide inspired by the power of sensory engagement with nature, community building, and cultivating a deeper awareness of our inner wisdom. She loves to be outside no matter the weather and enjoys sharing this passion with others. As a lifelong educator, she has taught littles to adults and everyone in between in classrooms, out in nature, and on ski slopes. Visit Within Nature's Embrace to learn more about Lauren's work.

Registration

• For ages 16 and up. All attendees are considered participants. Advance online registration required.
• $60 Early Bird Special until November 20, then $70 regular admission starting November 21.

Know Before You Go

• Arrive 15 minutes early at the Visitor Center.
• Bring a water bottle, comfortable shoes and clothing for the outdoors.
• Refund Policy: Refunds available only if your space is filled from the waitlist. No refunds within 72 hours of the event.
• Weather: This program runs rain or shine unless conditions are hazardous.

Contact kindrednatureguide@gmail.com for dietary or accessibility needs.