Warmth Within Winter: Reconnecting with Nature on Earth’s Perihelion

On January 4, 2025, Earth will reach perihelion—its closest point to the Sun for the year—a perfect moment to reconnect with the warmth and light that sustain us, even in the depth of winter. Join us for a mindful nature connection experience at Potomac Overlook Regional Park. Together, we will rekindle inner radiance, release stress, and embrace the nearness of the Sun through forest bathing, with certified forest bathing guide Ilana Rubin of Kindred Nature.

Forest bathing, or nature therapy, is a restorative practice of immersing yourself in the natural world through sensory experiences that engage your whole self. This experience offers a series of gentle activities to help you tune into the present, reawaken your senses, spark curiosity, and feel at peace.

Through mindful walking, guided meditation, nature connection invitations, and tea, you can enjoy benefits such as lower stress, increased mental clarity, and greater creativity. Tune in to yourself and the warmth of the sun in winter on this special day. This program combines individual and shared experiences, encouraging a sense of belonging with oneself, nature, and community.

All adults are welcome, and no prior experience is needed. The program may include less than a mile of slow walking along paved or unpaved, flat or sloped terrain, with all activities adaptable for each person to engage however feels right.

Our guide for this program, Ilana Rubin, is a forest bathing and nature therapy guide trained and certified by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programs. Ilana has been guiding forest bathing since 2021 when she founded Kindred Nature to replenish inner radiance, resilience, and belonging with nature and community through empowering and restorative experiences. She has guided for diverse groups and organizations including the US Forest Service, the GW Office of Integrative Medicine and Health, and multiple NOVA Parks sites.

Join for this unique opportunity to embrace the Sun’s nearness, even in the midst of winter, on this day of perihelion!

Important participant guidelines:

• $35 per participant for ages 18 and up. Any program attendee 18 years of age or older is considered a participant. No prior experience is necessary. Meet at the Nature Center.

• Arrive by 9:50am to ensure the program starts on time. Note that it takes a few minutes to walk from the parking lot to the Nature Center.

• Dress appropriately for outdoor weather with extra layers for warmth. The event will proceed unless hazardous weather is forecasted.

• Bring a water bottle and (optional) snacks for yourself.

• Notify us of any allergies or accommodation requests in advance by emailing kindrednatureguide@gmail.com.

• Registration ends two days before the program. A refund may be provided if your space is able to be filled from a waitlist. Refunds are not provided within 72 hours of the program. For any registration questions, please contact potomac@nvrpa.org.

• ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST PREREGISTER.