Our Fall Nature Walk was such an amazing experience, we're doing it again! If you missed it last October, we certainly hope you can make it!
John Bryan State Park 3790 Ohio 370 Yellow Springs, OH 45387
Over the past year, Safe Harbor has been exploring the world of "ecotherapy," a therapeutic modality that is based on the idea that humans are connected to and impacted by their natural environment. Did you know that there are a host of scientific studies that have measured and documented the positive effects of “forest bathing,” as the Japanese call spending time in nature? Being in nature reduces stress; improves short-term memory and concentration; relieves depression, anxiety, and ADHD symptoms; and of course, has a myriad of physical health benefits.
Last fall we invited all of our champions to join us in this exploration of ecotherapy, and we hosted an outdoor event called "Go the Distance: A Nature Walk Focused on Ecotherapy & Empathy." This was such a worthwhile event that we've decided to host it again, incorporating new insights we've gained over the last 6 months. So, on May 15th (with a 'rain date' of May 22) we’re inviting YOU to “step into the survivor journey” and join us for a therapeutic, compelling, and family-friendly walk at John Bryan State Park! Our goals are to educate individuals on the survivors' experience and needs, teach about innovative nature-based healing modalities, and raise funds for operations and capital improvements for the Safe Harbor program.
EVENT DETAILS: Starting at the Orton Picnic Area at John Bryan State Park, walkers can choose one of 2 paths based on difficulty level and how long they'd like to walk. The main path is approximately a 1 mile walk. It's a very walkable path, but do bring those hiking shoes! The second path is about a quarter of a mile walk and is completely flat.
Arrive anytime between 10am and 5pm; the walk is self-paced. We suggest allowing for 60 - 90 minutes for the total experience, which will include several stations to stop and reflect. We hope you'll snap some photos along the way, and tag Safe Harbor on Facebook or Instagram! We're using the hashtag #gothedistancewithsurvivors for the event.
As this is a fundraising event, registration is a suggested donation of $25/adult, in advance or day-of. And feel free to bring those kiddos; they walk for free!
DIRECTIONS: You will turn off of Rt. 343 onto Rt. 370 to head toward John Bryan State Park. After approximately one mile, turn LEFT at the entrance to John Bryan (you will see a large sign). Then take the first left, at a sign that says, "New South Gorge Bridge." Follow the road for 1.2 miles, past the Day Lodge, until it dead ends. There is a sizable parking lot at the dead end. That's where you'll find us!
E-mail carin@safeharborhouse.org with any questions. We hope to see you there!