Second Saturdays – Forest Bathing

Is it possible to “feel” history? The layers of history at Stenton are many, visible, and profound. They are seen in its natural and human-made features. They are echoed in the sights, sounds, smells, and feel of the place. Through outdoor mindfulness, we will bring the practice of Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, to Stenton. Forest bathing has been shown to provide tremendous health benefits including stress reduction, improved immune function, and a greater ability to concentrate. At Stenton, we hope this embodied experience of history will cultivate a richer sense of understanding, connection, and belonging. The session will be approximately 90-minutes long and is conducted in relative silence. We begin with warm-ups, centering, and breathing exercises to connect participants to their bodies and the world around them. These are followed by a walk and an extended sit which encourages participants to become more fully open and present to their surroundings. We conclude with a returning ritual, a chance to reflect on the experience and understand how the practice can be used in daily life. This time in nature will not be strenuous; all skill levels and most abilities can be accommodated. RSVPs are required to participate in this session because space is limited!

This session will be guided by Susan West Montgomery – https://www.susanwestmontgomery.com/

About Stenton Second Saturdays – Stenton will be open for FREE tours, beginning on the hour from 12pm-4pm. Forest bathing spaces are limited, so RSVPs are REQUIRED for the session, but no RSVPs are required for the free museum tours.