Winter Solstice Mindful Movement & Nature Therapy 12-20-25

Description

Winter Solstice Mindful Movement & Nature Therapy Saturday, December 20, 2025 | 1pm-4pmProgram Fee: Early Bird $60 (through November 20); Regular $70 (starting November 21)Ages 18 and olderAs the earth settles into winter, join us for a grounding and revitalizing experience among the serene landscape of Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. This restorative journey blends mindful movement with nature therapy to support both stability and renewal. Through gentle movement, guided forest immersion, and sensory awareness, we will connect with the steady presence of the earth beneath us while embracing the energy of the change of seasons. This experience is designed for all abilities and welcomes anyone seeking deep connection, inner peace, and a fresh start. Guided by Lauren Lang of Within Nature’s Embrace and Ilana Rubin of Kindred Nature .About Mindful Movement and Nature TherapyThis 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.Nature therapy, also known as forest therapy or forest bathing, draws inspiration from the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. Through mindful and sensory nature connection invitations, we create space to reconnect—with nature, with ourselves, and with each other. This practice helps us rediscover our sense of belonging within the natural world and our community. Research shows that nature therapy naturally reduces stress, restores focus, boosts creativity and mood, and supports immune health.Your ExperienceDuring our time together, you'll be invited to:Connect with yourself and nature as you are guided through simple movementsDiscover new ways to connect with nature through all your sensesRelax into guided mindful and bodyful practices to ground yourself in springReflect and share in a warm-hearted groupClose with tea, light snacks, and gratitudeWe may walk about a mile or less at a relaxing pace, on a mix of terrain that can include both paved and unpaved paths. Every invitation is adaptable to your comfort level—no experience or special skills are needed. Whether you're new to mindful movement and nature connection or have joined us before, you're warmly welcomed to this experience.Meet Your GuidesIlana Rubin brings warmth and expertise as a certified nature and forest therapy guide and as the founder of Kindred Nature. Trained and certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs (ANFT), Ilana established Kindred Nature in 2021 to replenish inner radiance, resilience, and belonging with nature and community through empowering and restorative experiences. She has guided many rejuvenating nature connection programs at NOVA Parks sites, as well as for diverse clients including the US Forest Service, the GW Office of Integrative Medicine and Health, families, couples, and individuals. Visit Kindred Nature to learn more about Ilana's work.Lauren Lang is inspired by the power of sensory engagement with nature, community building, and cultivating a deeper awareness of our inner wisdom. A certified yoga instructor and ANFT Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, she prefers to be outside no matter the weather and loves 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.Join Us!Advance online registration required. All attendees are considered participants. Welcome: All adults are warmly invited - no previous experience or background needed.Meeting Point: Meadowlark Botanical Gardens Visitor Center, 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna, Virginia.Bring: Water bottle, comfortable weather-appropriate clothing and shoes for outdoors, and comfortable for movement.Refunds available only if your space is filled from the waitlist; no refunds within 72 hours of the event.Weather: Programs run rain or shine unless conditions are hazardous.Arrival: Please come 10-15 minutes early so we can begin our journey together. Special Requests: For dietary allergies or accommodation needs, please contact kindrednatureguide@gmail.com .