Sensory Wander

About the Event
Join us for our first outdoor Open Practice: a Sensory Wander through the Arboretum. We’ll connect with nature and each other through shared silence, mindful walking, and creative activities. Inspired by Joanna Macy’s spiral practice (The Work That Reconnects), Open Practice includes movement, song, and space to cultivate meaningful connections. Come as you are — this is a welcoming space to land and build community. Facilitators include yoga teachers, educators, organizers, and ecotherapists. Today's event will be facilitated by Christopher Laursen, Sally Ludwig and Jess Sgrignoli.

Jess Sgrignoli is an Expressive Arts Therapy Student at the CREATE Institute and this group is part of her practicum. She is under the supervision of a Registered Psychotherapist.

Arrival
Meet at 9:30 - 9:50 AM at the Hales-McKay Shelter near the Arboretum Centre parking lot. We begin at 10:00 AM. Please be on time, friends.

What to Expect
You’ll receive a printed Sensory Wander map with route info. We’ll begin at the Gazebo with a welcome and grounding meditation through sound, visualization and breath. This will be followed by a guided attunement to further sharpen our senses and body awareness. A 30-minute solo or small group wander follows, where you may record nature sounds, interacting with the environment, stories, or songs. We will re-gather for shared creative time to close our time together.

Audio Recording
Use your phone (on silent/Do Not Disturb) or another device to record. Instructions and a QR code for uploading your audio will be on the map. Submitted digital recordings will be compiled into a soundscape for an upcoming indoor Open Practice.

Accessibility
The route includes flat, maintained paths through meadows and forest (1–2 km). Benches are available, and you may bring your own chair or blanket. The map highlights shaded (green) and sunny (red) paths to help you navigate.

Getting There
Parking is limited—please consider carpooling. The Arboretum is accessible via College Ave E. by car or from the University Bus Loop (a 1.8 km walk). Bike racks are available near the shelter.

Reminders

• By registering and attending, you accept that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. Volunteer co-facilitators will be available to assist participants. 

• Please stay home if feeling unwell.

• Dress for the weather; postponement info will be emailed if needed. (Our Rain Date will be scheduled for Sun, June 8th)

• Bring: phone, water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent.

• Adults only; no pets, please.

We look forward to being with you for this morning of immersion in sensing the natural world.

Any questions? Please contact [email protected]