Educator Wellness

A nature-inspired and immersive Professional Development (PD) experience that empowers Educators to be the best version of themselves both in and out of the classroom. This PD is rooted in ecotherapy practices, outdoor learning, and indigenous ways of knowing. Programming emphasizes resiliency through hands-on activities, reflective practices on teaching identity and stress level, and exploration of holistic activism for self and students. Educators can expect to walk away with essential skills and strategies for incorporating nature-based teaching into their personal and professional lives that enhance the wellbeing of all.

  • A focus on gratitude, generosity, storytelling, collective (rather than individual) wellbeing, and a reciprocal relationship with Nature to name a few.

  • We prioritize a culture of connection, breaking down the walls of isolation and loneliness that negatively contribute to health & wellbeing.

  • The bridge that connects us to the natural world. Builds skills of mindfulness, grounding, and gratitude.

  • Whether it’s simple movement, or green exercise, moving our bodies is essential.

  • Giving a voice and outlet to emotions, an essential component of the resiliency process. Gardening, music, art, and dancing to name a few.

  • Just like physical exercise strengthens the body, reflection strengthens the mind and builds self-efficacy.

Sample Schedule

9:30am – 9:45 Warm welcome   

Housekeeping

Hyperlocal refreshments

In-circle introductions

9:45 – 9:55 Kickoff

Land Acknowledgement: people, and today

SHINE story

Threshold crossing and intention setting

"Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished." -Lao Tzu

9:55 – 10:20 Engaging the Senses Walk & Talk

Cultivating mindfulness and perspective taking

Birdsong (proven stress reducer)

Figs, persimmons, lavender, compost, garlic planting 

10:20 – 10:30 Mindful movement and moments

Earthing

Movement/yoga

Guided mindfulness

Holding noncompetitive and nonjudgmental space to empower change

10:30 – 10:55  An Object from Nature Writing Workshop

Nature allies- the more than human support

Creative writing prompts

10:55 – 11 Threshold crossing into Woods

Example poem: A Special Day

11 – 11:15 Storytelling

Sharing knowledge

Sparking creativity, building interconnection

11:15 – 11:25 Inspiration for Educators

Music by the group’s thought-leader

11:25 – 11:30 Closing

Gratitude exercise

Journaling

Parting gift

Book recommendations

GROUP PICTURE