This offering is a beginner friendly exploration of mindful breathing and movement medicine in a beautiful forested setting. We will meet and begin our practice at the parking lot, waking up our minds and bodies with walking meditation as we journey through the woods to the yurt together. Along the way, participants will be encouraged to step lightly to the pace of calm breathing while nurturing a connection to the land and witnessing the forest in its full, spiritual glory.
After arriving at the yurt, we will meet in a comfortable seated posture for a few rounds of pranayama, our mindful breathing practice. As we ground into our space, we will slowly ease into a gentle flow to warm up our bodies and align our breath with our movement. Dropping deeper into the flow, our practice will bring us to our feet for a slow standing sequence that will both stoke our inner fires and cultivate a sense of calm and balance.
We will wind down with postures that bring us back to the floor for longer holds, allowing our bodies to release tension and feel the support of the ground below us. Our practice will close with guided relaxation to integrate the medicine we created through breathing, movement, and presence into our minds and bodies.
This event is rain or shine. Blankets will be provided, but please bring your own mat. You are welcome to bring additional props like blocks, bolsters, and straps, but they are not necessary. Upon arrival, your belongings will be brought to the yurt for you so you can be distraction-free during our meditative walk. The schedule for this event is approximately 40 minutes for our ¾ mile walking meditation, 90 minutes for our breathing and movement practice, and 20 minutes for our final guided relaxation.
This offering will be facilitated by Jess Beneski, a 200 hour registered yoga teacher and rock climbing guide based in the Bar Harbor area. Jess received her yoga teaching certification at Asheville Yoga Center in North Carolina and is accredited through Yoga Alliance. One of her many passions is guiding experiences that allow people to strengthen their connection to themself, develop deeper self trust, and expand their perception of what their minds and bodies are capable of.