Connect with Nature- Guided Foraging (West LA) & Meditation

MEET AT THE BASKETBALL COURTS

What’s included:

• A deeper sense of calm, groundedness, and connection to nature
• Step-by-step instructions to identify 5–10 local wild plants or mushrooms (plus tips to avoid lookalikes)

• A pocket-sized zine about plants and people

• Insight into the cultural, medicinal, or edible uses of the plants you meet
• Simple tools to keep foraging safe, respectful, and beginner-friendly
• The comfort of knowing you don’t need to talk much, perform, or “know stuff” to belong here

Description:

Come join us as we learn about plants + fungi, hang with friends new and old, and nurture our relationship to nature and each other. First, your guide Jessica will lead a beginner-friendly & nature-themed meditation to encourage gentle openness. Then, she will lead the guided walking portion, where we'll talk about plants and fungi. Some examples include Chicken of the Woods, madrone fruit, prickly pear cactus, lemonade berry, lilly pilly, Natal plum, mallow, dandelion, nasturtium, mustard, and other delights. You will learn how to begin identifying these on your own, avoid poisonous lookalikes, prepare finds for functional use (eating, decorating, etc), and gain insight into Traditional Chinese Medicine and holistic health. Ultimately, you'll walk away with newfound respect and joy for the planet we call home.

Host:

Jessica Lin (she/her) is a forager and gardener, fascinated by natural delights like fun, curly vines and heart-shaped leaves. She is internationally known for her workshops and events, which offer a heartfelt alternative to club and party scenes. From Queer Board Games to Japanese Stab Binding (DIY Journal Making), you're sure to have a great time! Attendees have described her 5-star offerings as neurodivergent friendly, diverse, unique, authentic, and warm. Her inclusive and engaging workshops have been featured on TV (Spectrum and CBS/KCal), the LA Times, LAist, and more. To book a custom event or inquire about speaking, schedule a free consultation today! Email: queereventsnearme@gmail.com.

Parking:

FREE public lot & street parking (remember to read signs)

Accessibility:

• Uneven terrain, including wood chips, roads, & cement

• Benches along the path

• Image descriptions for visually impaired folks

• Experience working with folks who are autistic, disabled, deaf/hard of hearing, English language learners, etc.

• Kids 4 and under come free (one per paying/supervisory adult)

Notes:

- This workshop is only offered in American English at the moment.

- No refunds --> Please purchase a transfer ticket if you'd like to reschedule.

- By signing up, you agree to be added to the email newsletter, photographed at events, and indemnify Beyond the Body, Jessica T. Lin, and affiliates from any and all liability.

- To respect everyone's comfort level and preferences, please leave pets at home unless they're service animals.

--> LEASHED PETS ALLOWED AT THE HERMOSA BEACH LOCATION

Follow along on Instagram @queerfriendlyfuninla for the latest updates, giveaways, free tips, and more!