Come join us on Sunday, April 14th, 9 a.m. at Harrison Hills Park for a bird-watching walk. Our walk will be led by two graduates of Audubon Society of Western PA Master Birding Program, Jessica Lakari, and Dave Brooke. Jessica is an experienced hiker and became interested in birding four years ago after attending a Christmas Bird Count at North Park. She loves sharing her passion for the outdoors and birding with others. Dave got interested in bird watching by attending a guided walk at Harrison Hills 8 years ago. He saw a Hooded Warbler for the first time on that walk and began a lifelong passion for birding and bird photography. You can view Dave’s photography at DDB Photography. Please email kganster@verizon.net to let us know that you are coming by April 5th. Space is limited. Hope to see you there!
On Saturday, April 20th, SOE will be hosting Forest Bathing at 10 a.m., Emmerling Park, Indiana Township. What is forest bathing? As relaxing as the photo below looks, it isn’t taking a bath in the forest. According to Dr. Doug Jones, “Forest Bathing: The Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing in English) is a slow, sensory-based walk in the woods, during which we focus on the sights, sounds, smells, feels, and tastes of nature. This is neither a naturalist exploration nor a fitness trek; this walk is about soaking in the health benefits of spending relaxed time in nature. It’s also about tending and mending our relationships with nature, ourselves, and others. Join us and experience nature’s power to soothe, refresh, and open your heart. Who knows what surprises nature may have in store? There are no requirements – just come as you are.” Our guide, Douglas Jones, Ph.D., is an experienced guide, trained and certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs. We are super excited to host this program! Email kganster@verizon.net or text 412-377-8364 for more info. or to reserve a spot.
As always, all SOE programming is free for survivors, caregivers, and friends. Visit: www.survivorsoutdoorexperience.org for more information.
