Come discover the regenerative power of mindful engagement with nature. The Japanese tradition of Shinrin-Yoku, forest bathing, is a practice of using all of your senses to connect with nature. Many studies have found it to be helpful in decreasing stress, increasing immune system functioning, and improving concentration, creativity and mood. In a slow-paced two-hour session, certified Forest Therapy Guide Stephanie Campbell will offer a sequence of gentle invitations designed to help you immerse yourself in deeper connection with nature, ending with a forest-based tea.
Plan your visit to include a stop in the Discovery Garden for this special opportunity to meet the keepers of the bees, chickens and incredible edible plants. Stop by to meet and learn from staff members who specialize in caring for this engaging garden area beloved by learners of all ages.
Calling birders of all skill levels to build your observation skills on a slow stroll through Duke Gardens as you gather a list of different birds that use the Gardens, in celebration of International Migratory Bird Day. If you have ever found yourself wondering about the birds that are flying or singing around you, bring those questions with you to learn together as a group. You’ll leave with an appreciation for the global communities of life that migration facilitates. Bring your own binoculars if you have them (not required) and a sense of curiosity.
Participants will confirm the relationship they hold with plants that brings life to mind, body, and soul. This workshop will provide the opportunity to explore the benefits of garden herbs commonly used in the kitchen and reflect on the intuitive wisdom gained from interacting with them. This program is designed specifically for BIPOC adults (18+ years old). Participants will receive a garden kit that includes herbs, soil, one planter, seeds, journal and herbal guide to take home.
Between television commercials promoting green, healthy lawns and online influencers trumpeting climate-savvy lawn alternatives, the average gardener or homeowner would need a bushhog to cut through the noise. Join us for a stroll through the gardens to learn how we develop turfgrass and groundcover solutions that balance our commitment to climate-resilient gardening and our passion for high-impact beauty – and how you can too!
Join tree expert Matt Archibald from Leaf & Limb for a walk to wonder at the beauty of trees and learn fascinating facts about various species, their ecological importance and their role in our environment. Matt Archibald is a huge nerd for trees and nature. He is an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, Tree Risk Assessment Qualified and a veteran in the industry for 10 years and counting. Coming from a rock climbing background, Matt discovered his passion and purpose in life when he started learning about trees and their ever-expanding universe of information. The more we learn, the more we realize how little we know!
Learn about the transformative positive power of gardening on mental health in this conversation with Sue Stuart Smith, together with Emily Bernhardt, about the lessons Sue has learned through her work and in sharing her message with the world. Sue Stuart Smith is a psychiatrist, psychotherapist and author of The Well Gardened Mind, listed as one of the 37 best books of 2020 by The Times and gardening book of the year by The Sunday Times. In a powerful combination of contemporary neuroscience, psychoanalysis and brilliant storytelling, The Well Gardened Mind investigates the magic that many gardeners have known for years – working with nature can radically transform our health, well-being and confidence.
Plan your visit to include a stop in the Discovery Garden for this special opportunity to meet the keepers of the bees, chickens and incredible edible plants. Stop by to meet and learn from staff members who specialize in caring for this engaging garden area beloved by learners of all ages. Drop-in activity for all ages. Adult chaperone required for minors.
Build your bird observation skills on a slow stroll through Duke Gardens as you gather a list of different birds that use the Gardens. If you have ever found yourself wondering about the birds that are flying or singing around you, bring those questions with you to learn together as a group.
Forming a land-based relationship with place is an ongoing process, whether you live and garden on your own land, in an apartment or another setting. Together you’ll explore what it means to arrive in an ecosystem, become a part of it and take responsibility for your shared future.
