Winkler Botanical Preserve

Release stress and deepen your connections with nature, yourself, and community. This mindful practice led by certified nature therapy guide Ilana Rubin of Kindred Nature invites you to immerse your senses in the natural world, release stress, and enjoy the changing colors of autumn trees in a hidden gem oasis of nature. This guided experience includes mindful slow walking, quiet seated reflection, facilitated sharing, light snacks, and tea. 

What to Expect

Slow down, awaken your senses, and explore the beautiful forests, meadows, ponds, and creeks. Nature therapy (forest bathing) invites us to reconnect with nature—and our own inner nature—supporting wellness, stress relief, creativity, focus, and belonging. Drawing inspiration from the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, nature therapy offers mindful and sensory nature connection invitations that can help us rediscover our sense of belonging within the natural world and community.

We'll move gently—up to 1 mile on varied terrain—with every invitation adaptable. All adults are warmly invited - no previous experience or background needed; just bring your curiosity and presence!

Each program offers a unique journey, co-created by the season, location, wildlife, and group. Every invitation is adaptable to your comfort level—no experience or special skills needed. Whether you're new to mindful nature connection practices or have joined us before, you're warmly welcome to this experience.

Meet Your Guide

Ilana Rubin (she/her), MPA, Certified Nature & Forest Therapy Guide, Facilitator, and Founder of Kindred Nature will share her warmth and expertise as she guides this restorative experience. 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. Visit Kindred Nature to learn more.

• Registration: $40 per participant. Open to ages 18 and up. All attendees are considered participants. Advance online registration required.
• Arrival: Meet in front of Catherine's Lodge (the wooden lodge located a few minutes from the parking lot) and begin check in 15 minutes before the program starts. 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: Programs run rain or shine unless conditions are hazardous.

For dietary allergies or accommodation needs, please contact Ilana at kindrednatureguide@gmail.com.