Opening to Wonder: Mindfulness in Nature

Join MNW and certified Nature Meditation teacher Beth Glosten in a half-day exploration of meditation in nature. Sitting outside offers sensory experiences that tune our attention to the present. The myriad sounds, sensations, smells, and natural colors offer portals into the richness
of every moment and awaken our natural ability to listen, feel, and sense.

Tuning to nature soothes stress, calms the body, and enhances well-being. Through this deliberate time outside we can embrace its lessons: impermanence, gratitude, patience, and connectedness; and gain inspiration from the challenges and changing dynamics of the natural world. Enjoy a deeper connection to nature– we are not separate!

This half-day session will be spent mostly in silence, with opportunities for questions and comments. As such, having some meditation experience will be helpful.

We will gather, rain or shine, at Seward Park in Seattle, WA, Shelter #2 (map). The shelter is open on all sides and includes picnic tables and benches on a concrete floor. A public bathroom is located a short walk away.

Parking & Access:
Shelter #2 can be reached from either the upper parking lot (the smaller lot on the hill) or the lower parking lot (south of the play area). If you park in the upper lot, there is a short hill to walk down. Seward Park is also accessible by King County Metro bus #50.

What to Bring:

• Footwear suitable for uneven surfaces and possibly wet grass (for walking meditation)

• Clothing and layers for the weather (raincoat, hat, blanket, sweater, etc.)

• A chair or cushion (consider placing it in a trash bag to protect from dampness)

• Optional: blanket for warmth during sitting practice

• Snack, lunch, and water (we’ll pause for a lunch break midday)

The picnic tables and benches are available for sitting, and if the weather is pleasant, we may also sit on the grass. Please note: Mindfulness Northwest is unable to provide additional chairs, mats, or refreshments.

Practice Format:
The day will include several periods of sitting meditation in the shelter and walking meditation on nearby paths and grassy areas.