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mindfulness + bird watching

  • Ayurvedic Wellness Center 900 Peeler Street Kalamazoo, MI, 49008 United States (map)

Mindfulness + Bird Watching
w. Seth Chapman

Mindfulness is the practice of bringing attention to what is happening in the present moment while letting go of judging the moment as good or bad. In practicing mindfulness, you choose to breathe into whatever may be happening right now, instead of distracting yourself from it. The practice of being mindful teaches us to be here now, with the earth as it is, allowing us to lean into pleasant experiences in nature and enjoy them fully.

Join Mindful Outdoor Guide and local birder Seth Chapman for a mindful outdoor experience in which you will be guided in nature, and invited to deepen and broaden your awareness of and connection to the living earth.

Working with the practice of mindfulness, we will systematically work through a mindful flow designed to soothe and settle the mind and nerves. With centered awareness, we will mindfully walk, absorbing the sights, sounds, smells, and textures of the forest, with an emphasis on birds. To close, we have council, where we will share our experience as a group while sipping on chai.

what you'll experience

  • Learn the importance of practicing mindfulness

  • Become more connected to and familiar with the living earth

  • Observe birds in their habitat

  • More intentional, meaningful connection to Self

  • Enjoy community connection and complimentary chai

benefits of participating

  • Decrease in the presence of the stress hormone cortisol

  • Decrease in sympathetic nervous system activity

  • Decrease in blood pressure and heart rate

  • Connect with others who share an interest in nature and wildlife

Investment:
Single class drop-in: $25
3-Class Pack: $60 (save 20% to commit to a three-session block)

Community Care Funds available for those who need support with tuition, contact us for support.

All Access Members receive an additional discount on this event.

If you have any questions about registration, please contact us at contact@ayurvedicwellness.center and we're happy to help.


FAQS

Who is this class for?
This experience is open to anyone curious about mindfulness, birding, or spending time in nature. No prior experience with either practice is necessary.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Bringing binoculars is encouraged but not required. We also recommend bringing a mug or thermos for the complimentary chai.

Do I need experience with mindfulness or birding?
No experience is needed. Seth will guide the group through each part of the walk, and the practice is designed to be accessible to complete beginners.

Is this event indoors or outdoors?
This is an outdoor experience held on forest trails, so it will take place rain or shine unless weather conditions are unsafe.

 

Seth's Yoga + Ayurveda journey began over a decade ago after attending a yoga class in Kalamazoo. He is a lifelong learner with a passion for nature, and an interest in learning new skills.

Seth has a lifelong passion for birds, and loves sharing his enthusiasm of the bird world with those around him. His interest in birds led him to begin his life list at the age of 10. Seth also volunteers at a local nature center where he monitors nestboxes, as well as volunteers at a bird banding station.