Birds can be found in our neighborhoods and backyards, and can provide fascination and delight. In fact, a growing body of research tells us that tuning in to birds is good for our health and wellbeing. Join us for a gentle morning of observing birds and tapping into the grounding and peace they can offer us. Rather than focusing on identifying or locating as many species as possible, we will be using birds and nature as a mindfulness tool. After all, you don’t need to know the name of a bird to enjoy its colors, sounds or antics!

This event is for anyone; previous bird knowledge is not required. It will be led by Freya McGregor, an occupational therapist who works at the intersection of access, inclusion, disability and birding as a consultant, educator and researcher.

What to expect:

This session will be focused on building connections between participants, birds and nature. There will be a maximum group size of 10, plus two leaders. There will be no instruction provided about bird finding or bird identification, as that is not the focus of mindful birding.

We will begin by getting to know each other, then do some guided mindfulness using the birds as our guides. Because birds are wild creatures, we don’t know who might show up, and we may walk a short distance (no further than 300’ over mown grass) to get closer to some trees or shrubs. After this, we will spread out, spending some quiet time reflecting. Journalling during this time is encouraged, but not required. Finally, we will come back together to share and reflect, and resources for continuing this practice beyond this time together will be shared.

Throughout this event we will ask all participants to silence their cell phones, and encourage you to turn yours completely off. This is to minimize distractions for you and others, so that we each have the best opportunity to tune in to the natural world around us. We understand that turning your cell phone off entirely isn’t feasible for everyone, and the choice to do so will be your own.

We will spend most of the event seated, however you are welcome to stand if you prefer.

What to bring:

· Dress to spend time outdoors.

· A camp chair, stool, picnic blanket or yoga mat to sit on. We will have a few available to borrow.

· A journal or notebook, and your favorite pen or other writing implement. (Avoid relying on a smartphone or tablet for this activity if possible, to help reduce destractions.)

· If you have binoculars, you are welcome to bring them, however they are not necessary. We will have four pairs of binoculars available to borrow if anyone would like to use them. Please note that the emphasis of this time together is not on bird identiticiation, so we will not be dedicating any time to teaching basic binocular skills.

· Something to drink, such as water or a thermos of your favorite hot beverage.