Over these last couple of weeks, a group of 13 seniors met to connect with nature and learn how to observe the world around them in a more intentional way. In partnership with Senior Coastsiders, the Coastside Land Trust offered two nature journaling workshops taught by naturalist, Elexis Padron. Within these two sessions, participants learned how to slow down, observe one’s natural environment, and translate those observations into a beautiful nature journal incorporating writing, drawing, numbers, measurements, painting, and even poetry. The first session took place at the Senior Coastsiders center, where participants learned and practiced with the basic skills and tools. The following week participants traveled to Wavecrest Open Space to put these skills into practice in the field.
Participants shared that the sun came out for the field session, and that they saw an abundance of wildlife, including some of the more elusive pacific tree frogs and garter snakes. Another participant shared that she had never spent so much time examining one thing at a time, explaining that these practices have helped her to move beyond a habit of “just taking a photo and moving on.” She has learned how to slow down and become more present in nature.
If you are interested in taking part in a future Nature Journaling workshop with Senior Coastsiders and the Coastside Land Trust please contact Hope Atmore at hatmore@seniorcoastsiders.org. This is a free intergenerational activity, and all are welcome. All supplies will be provided. Space is limited.
