"The act of smelling something, anything, is remarkably like the act of thinking. Immediately at the moment of perception, you can feel the mind going to work, sending the odor around from place to place, setting off complex repertories through the brain, polling one center after another for signs of recognition, for old memories and old connection."

– Lewis Thomas

There are so many different smells in the forest, some good and some bad.  At times, we focus so much on walking, talking, and looking that we forget to notice what we are smelling while we are outside.  

What you will get out of it:

The purpose of today’s lesson is for you to “stop and smell the roses”.

What you will do:

• • Listen to a spirit podcast and strive to focus on your sense of smell as you walk in nature.

  • Take part in __ minutes of mindful reflection. 

  • Record and describe fragrances in your journal. 

  • Engage in 12 minutes of movement.

  • After your walk, sketch your observations of smells you encountered.

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

Recommended Nature Walks:

Easy:

• • 1. Pond Loop Trail (PA) .7 mile loop ( Pond Loop Directions , Pond Loop Trail Map )

Medium Short:

• • 1. Tumbling Waters Trail (PEEC) (PA) 3 mile loop ( Tumbling Waters Directions,    Tumbling Waters Trail Map )

Medium Long:

• • 1. Ridgeline Trail (PEEC) (PA) 4.5 mile loop ( Ridgeline Directions ,  Ridgeline Trail Map )

    2. Blue Mountain Lake Trail (NJ) 5.9 mile loop ( Blue Mountain Lake  Directions,   Blue Mountain Lake 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.

"woman in green sweater holding blue flowers"" by Yaya Favela