August 23, 2025
Winkler Preserve-Nature Therapy and Story Weaving 8/23/25
Winkler Preserve • 5400 Roanoke Ave Alexandria, VA 22311 Organized by NOVA Parks - Northern Virginia Regional Park AuthorityAbout this event
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Description
Nature Therapy and Story Weaving: Creating Wonder TalesDiscover and co-create stories of nature inspired wonder with this unique blend of nature therapy and Story Weaving at Winkler Botanical Preserve! This expanded morning experience with certified nature therapy guide and story weaving facilitator, Ilana Rubin of Kindred Nature, invites you to immerse your senses in the natural world while uncovering unique and shared stories that live within and around us.
About Nature Therapy:Nature therapy, also known as forest therapy or forest bathing, draws inspiration from the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. Through mindful and sensory nature connection invitations, we create space to slow down and reconnect—with nature, with ourselves, and with each other. This practice helps us rediscover our sense of belonging within the natural world and our community. Research shows that nature therapy naturally reduces stress, restores focus, boosts creativity and mood, and supports immune health.
About Story Weaving:Story Weaving is a delightfully simple yet profound way to uncover the stories that live within and around us. As the forest shares its own summer stories through rustling leaves and morning birdsong, we'll discover how our shared experiences weave naturally into the larger tapestry of life and then weave together unique shared stories. This isn't about "being a good writer" or "telling the perfect story"- its about opening our senses and sharing your voice with the natural world and warm community of the morning.
Your Experience:During our time together, you'll be invited to:Explore creative expression inspired by nature (materials provided)Relax into guided mindfulness practicesDiscover new ways to connect with late spring's vitality through all your sensesWitness the preserve's transformation as winter yields to springEnjoy slow, peaceful walking in natureReflect and share in a warm-hearted groupClose with tea, light snacks, and gratitude
Each program offers a unique journey, co-created by the season, the location, the wildlife, and our group. We may walk about a mile or less at a relaxing pace, on a mix of terrain that can include both paved and unpaved paths. Every invitation is adaptable to your comfort level—no experience or special skills needed. Whether you're new to mindful nature connection practices or have joined us before, you're warmly welcomed to this experience.
Meet your guide:Ilana Rubin brings warmth and expertise as a certified nature and forest therapy guide and as the founder of Kindred Nature. Trained and certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs, Ilana established Kindred Nature in 2021 to replenish inner radiance, resilience, and belonging with nature and community through empowering and restorative experiences. She has guided many rejuvenating nature connection programs at NOVA Parks sites, as well as for diverse clients including the US Forest Service, the GW Office of Integrative Medicine and Health, families, couples, and individuals.
Join Us!Registration: $45 per participant (ages 18 and up).All attendees are considered participants. Advance online registration required. Adults are warmly invited - no previous experience or background needed!
Meet in front of Catherine's Lodge, the large wooden lodge a few minutes' walk from the parking lot. Bring: Water bottle, comfortable weather-appropriate clothing, and shoes for outdoors. Programs run rain or shine unless conditions are hazardous Arrival: Please come 10-15 minutes early so we can begin our journey together.
For dietary allergies or accommodation needs, please contact kindrednatureguide@gmail.com
Participants are required to read and accept the Assumption of Risk and Indemnification Agreement during the registration process. Please click on the link below to view the document.
Age Category
Adult
Location
Meet at Catherine's Lodge
Age and Gender
Ages 18-255 · Co-Ed
Location
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