Access the world of birding in a supportive environment.
Registration is required. This outing is designed to be more accessible for people with mobility challenges and/or disabilities and, if applicable, their caregiver/personal support worker. Meeting location instructions will be provided to registrants.
Bring a chair (camp or wheelchair) to join us for an easy 90-minute introduction to a practice often called "mindful birding". No experience is necessary and all ability levels are welcome. This mindful birding group is designed to be accommodating to those who cannot go too far from a vehicle or navigate uneven terrain. Instead of focusing on the breath or ‘clearing the mind,’ we explore mindfulness through gentle and open awareness of the birds around us. Mindful birding is less structured than most meditation practices with more emphasis on enjoyment than discipline. There are infinite ways to adjust to different needs. For example, you do not need to sit completely still or in any particular position.
No birding skills or equipment needed, just dress for the weather conditions and bring your own chair. Consider bringing additional items such as a sunscreen, hat, snacks and water.
We will be on an accessible trail: Accessed from the parking lot, there is a small loop of accessible 8-foot-wide paved paths or compacted gravel path. All of the soft surface trails in the upper loops meet ABA Trails Accessibility standards. For more trail information visit the Riley Ranch Nature Reserve website: https://www.bendparksandrec.org/park/riley-ranch-nature-reserve/
Please reach out with any accessibility questions, including queries about mobility device access details.
About Sevilla:
Sevilla Rhoads is a local bird enthusiast who frequently offers nature-related programs and outings. Her background includes a thesis in mindfulness-based approaches for her psychology Masters degree, as well as mindfulness training at retreats with teachers, including Drs. Jon Kabat-Zinn (MBSR founder and author), Zindel Segal (MBCT), Sarah Bowen (MBRP), and Jan Chozen Bays (mindful eating). She has led mindfulness-based retreats and workshops and birding programs and outings. Sevilla is a Certified Access Birding Outing Leader. For more information visit her website at https://www.deifer.net/.
Questions? Contact laurelh@deschuteslibrary.org
AGE GROUP: | Adult |
EVENT TYPE: | Adult Program |
Meeting instructions will be provided to registrants.
