This workshop will help you learn the Practice of Ornitherapy- a practice of mindful birding.
We will begin with an opening presentation explaining the concept of Ornitherapy, and how and why birds and nature help promote overall wellbeing. Through guided instruction, we'll learn simple mindfulness exercises to engage our sensory awareness while tuning into the birds and natural world surrounding us.
We'll use focused "Ornitherapy Explorations" using techniques and prompts in a gently guided walk and sit spot, enhancing ID skills and focusing on surrounding bird life, while promoting quality versus quantity of the experience.
Journaling practice – participants will use their Ornitherapy Journals (provided with program) to increase observation and awareness.
Debriefing our experiences in a group sharing exercise to inspire each other through our collective observations.
Benefits of Ornitherapy: Enjoy a reprieve from life stressors and pressures
Gain enhanced sensory awareness (sight, sound, smell, touch)
Better understand bird life through intentional observation
Sharpen your observation skills
Enhance your identification skills, while building a stronger foundation for overall bird ID
Increase self-reflection through birds and nature
Event details: 2 hour evening outdoor workshop
Group size: 12
What to bring: If you have binoculars, feel free to bring them. Water bottle or something that can be easily carried to stay hydrated. Sun protection is recommended, as are comfortable walking shoes. Please bring something to write with - you will be provided an Ornitherapy journal to use during our workshop. If you prefer not to sit directly on the grass, something portable like a cushion, beach towel, or lightweight yoga mat will work!
MIndful Birding
Watching birds is not only fun, but good for you!
Learn why getting your daily dose of Ornitherapy is just what the doctor ordered…. Ornitherapy leads to a more mindful approach to the observation of birds, benefitting our mind, body, and soul.
We’re pushed and pulled in many directions, no matter our age. If we allow birds and nature to slow us down, we are practicing a form of “selfcare”. Research shows that exposure to nature actively reduces stress, depression, and anxiety, while helping build a stronger heart and immune system. Birds are gateways into deeper experiences with nature, magnifying these benefits. Through observation, we can learn not only about birds, but gain insight into our own lives while exploring our connection to the world around us. This fosters stewardship and bolsters conservation.
Within the program, we’ll delve into our connections to birds, how to practice Ornitherapy for optimal benefits, and learn about the latest research in the power of nature for overall wellbeing.
Come listen to how watching birds can bring you more than just the enjoyment.
Thursday, June 6 | 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
This workshop will help you learn the Practice of Ornitherapy- a practice of mindful birding.
We will begin with an opening presentation explaining the concept of Ornitherapy, and how and why birds and nature help promote overall wellbeing. Through guided instruction, we'll learn simple mindfulness exercises to engage our sensory awareness while tuning into the birds and natural world surrounding us.
We'll use focused "Ornitherapy Explorations" using techniques and prompts in a gently guided walk and sit spot, enhancing ID skills and focusing on surrounding bird life, while promoting quality versus quantity of the experience.
Journaling practice – participants will use their Ornitherapy Journals (provided with program) to increase observation and awareness.
Debriefing our experiences in a group sharing exercise to inspire each other through our collective observations.
Benefits of Ornitherapy: Enjoy a reprieve from life stressors and pressures
Gain enhanced sensory awareness (sight, sound, smell, touch)
Better understand bird life through intentional observation
Sharpen your observation skills
Enhance your identification skills, while building a stronger foundation for overall bird ID
Increase self-reflection through birds and nature
Event details: 2 hour evening outdoor workshop
Group size: 12
What to bring: If you have binoculars, feel free to bring them. Water bottle or something that can be easily carried to stay hydrated. Sun protection is recommended, as are comfortable walking shoes. Please bring something to write with - you will be provided an Ornitherapy journal to use during our workshop. If you prefer not to sit directly on the grass, something portable like a cushion, beach towel, or lightweight yoga mat will work!
Location
Rushton Conservation Center
915 Delchester Road
Newtown Square, PA 19073
This event will be accessible for all mobility levels, and will be slow-paced, with some gentle walking and sitting on the ground. Limited chairs or benches are provided on site.
Cancellation Policy:
IF WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST (WCT) CANCELS AN EVENT
WCT may cancel events due to inclement weather or low registration. If an event is canceled, we will notify you of the rescheduled event date, and you will receive a full refund.
IF YOU CAN'T MAKE IT TO AN EVENT
If your cancellation is at least 72 hours in advance of the event date, you will receive a full refund. Please email events@wctrust.org or call 610-353-2562 to cancel. If your cancellation is less than 72 hours' notice and you DO NOT attend a event, your event registration fee will support the Trust's mission to save open space and connect people to nature.
Thank you for understanding. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Photography Policy:
Attendance throughout the programs and events with Willistown Conservation Trust gives consent to be photographed for use in print and electronic media.
Please notify Willistown Conservation Trust staff if you would prefer that your photo not be used for various multimedia or publications - land@wctrust.org.
