Led by Holly Merker, Chesterbrook, PA (near Phila) in partnership with the Delaware Valley Ornithological Club / DVOC
Specific meeting location is the parking area closest to the All-Abilities Playground,
GPS coords: 40.073187, -75.455346
Your Leader, Holly Merker, will be the petite woman wearing an Eagles hat with binoculars and small spotting scope!
Holly is a Mindful Birding Practitioner trained in mindfulness meditation and is a certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide.
*Please register in advance due to limited space by contacting leader at: ornitherapy@gmail.com
Birding for Wellness Series: Accessible Mindful Birding
Mindful Birding pairs observing birds with mindfulness techniques, creating a practice that cultivates a heightened awareness and fosters connections. Labeling or identifying birds is not the primary focus, but instead the intention is slowing down and noticing, using birds as our guides. This style of birding is inclusive and accessible for people of varying abilities.
Through guided instruction, we'll practice simple mindfulness exercises to engage our sensory awareness while intentionally tuning into the birds surrounding us. Techniques and prompts will accompany the gently guided walk, which can enhance our observation skills, deepening our experiences with wild birds around us. This in turn amplifies the positive benefits birds provide to our overall wellness.
Participants will receive a take-home journal to foster observation and awareness and provide take-away techniques.
No experience with birding or mindfulness practice are necessary to attend. A few pairs of binoculars will be available to borrow from your guide. All are welcomed!
Accessibility information: This program has been developed to be inclusive and accessible. People with mobility disabilities are particularly welcomed to attend. Please contact leader in advance with any questions. This will be a slow-paced walk on wide and mostly flat paved trails, traveling less than two miles. There are no stairs or steep inclines. We might sometimes stand for short periods of time as we observe birds and share our experiences with birds. On-site indoor restrooms are available.
Space is limited. Register by contacting the guide at: ornitherapy@gmail.com