Mindful Nature Immersion with Richard Bonk at Bush Lake

At Bush Lake Izaak Walton League,

7515 Izaak Walton Rd W, Bloomington, MN 55438, USA

Connect with the Natural World and your Inner Nature!

Mindful Nature Immersion (MNI) with Richard Bonk

Mindfulness Nature Immersion (MNI) utilizes mindfulness to connect with and explore the outer natural world as well as our inner nature. In this program participants will be taught basic mindfulness practices, then guided in an immersive experience in nature to practice those skills. These experiences broaden awareness, sharpen focus, engage the senses and open the heart, so that one may experience a deeper connection and appreciation for nature, its flora, fauna and ecosystems, as well as developing a sense of compassion for those other beings, including other humans and ourselves.

Details: We will meet at Bush Lake Izaak Walton League, 7515 Izaak Walton Rd W, Bloomington, MN 55438, do a brief orientation with introductions, then move out into nature on the grounds. After a guided mindful senses experience, participants will transition to mindful nature walking, then a longer period of connecting with a natural element, such as flora, fauna or landscape. Time for journaling, debriefing and sharing will be included. 

This activity takes place outdoors, please dress for the weather, bring water, snacks, bug repellant and portable seat if needed. Also a journal if you'd like to write or sketch. There is a lodge onsite as well as a restroom.

Bring a bag dinner if you want to picnic with others afterward. There is space in the lodge to store it.

Richard Bonk has a Masters of Education in Counseling degree and has worked in healthcare for over 30 years. A longtime member of our Common Ground Meditation community, he has practiced mindfulness for over 40 years and has developed and facilitated programs for various organizations and communities. Richard is also a lifelong naturalist, including working at the Toledo (OH) Zoo and brings these interests together in this programming.

Common Ground offers all programs freely in the spirit of generosity. If you'd like to learn more about how we operate or want to volunteer or donate, visit https://commongroundmeditation.org/the-practice-of-generosity. The leaders/facilitators for this program are not acting in a formal teaching role. As such, all donations made in support for this program can be made out to Common Ground’s general fund (i.e. not designated to a particular teacher or fund).