“One touch of nature makes the whole world kin.”

- William Shakespeare

Tactile experiences are often overlooked but touch helps us understand what we are seeing. Today, you will connect to nature on a deeper level through the spirit podcast. Through exploration and journaling, you will notice how there are many textures existing together within the same natural environment. 

*Before you start your journey you should watch the video on exploring touch and the video on plants not to touch.

What you will get out of it: 

The purpose of today’s lesson is for you to engage in your own tactile experiences in nature by touching the plants, soil, and rocks.

What you will do:

Today you will take a walk in nature and practice making observations using your sense of touch.

• • • Listen to a spirit podcast and strive to focus on the different sensations and textures you find in nature while you walk.

    • Take part in 12 minutes of mindful reflection.

    • Complete an entry in your journal in which you try to describe with detail the sensory experiences of touch from your walk.

    • Engage in 15 minutes of movement.

    • Make a sketching or rubbing that accurately captures the textures and feelings of that area using natural materials.

    • Reflect on your hike today and the things you have learned.

Recommended Nature Walks:

• • Easy:

• • 1. Hidden Lake (PA) 1.9 mile loop ( Hidden Lake Directions, Hidden Lake Map )

    2. Van Campens Glen (NJ) ( Van Campens Glen Directions, Van Campens Glen Trail Map  )

• • Medium Short:

• • 1. Hornbecks Creek (PA) 1.9 miles one way ( Hornbecks Creek Directions , Hornbecks Creek Trail Map CLOSED)

• • Medium Long:

• • 1. Cliff Trail (PA) 2.8 miles one way ( Cliff Trail Directions,  Cliff Trail Map )

*We recognize that nature walks are not possible for everyone so, while the hikes are highly recommended, they are not required. Spending time in nature, even the nature found in a park or your own backyard, is absolutely fine.

"boy wearing green bubble zip-up jacket holding tree trunk" by Annie Spratt