Observing Nature: Inward and Outward

A deep, personal experience in learning to still the mind, open the heart, open the eyes, and use our higher senses to observe within ourselves and around us at all times.

This popular program is now in its fifth year, designed and led by Peter Del Vecchio, sharing his decades of training and life experiences as both a keen observer of the natural world and yogic mindfulness guide.

Instructor-led activities include simple and powerful mindfulness and deep relaxation techniques, nature walks (some silent), journaling, discussions, and cell phone nature photography – a favorite!

The serene forest environment of the School of Conservation is the perfect place to accomplish this! Once we come in touch with our true self within, it is so much easier to navigate the world to attain our goals.

Throughout our lives from early childhood, we are guided toward intellectual learning: facts, dates, calculations, etc. Observing Nature: Inward and Outward offers a practical, deeper type of learning to help free us from that “mental gerbil wheel”. We learn to focus inwardly in order to better focus outwardly. The benefit is a much cleaner, happier, giving, and more fulfilling life.

This program is designed for ages 12* to adult (*children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). No prior experience is required – just a love of nature and learning. Here’s what previous participants have had to say:

• “Thoroughly enjoyed the program with Peter at NJSOC. Made me appreciate how important it is to practice being present and practice mindfulness on a daily basis.”

• “I loved the focus on ‘love and forgiveness’”.

• “I would recommend this program to anyone who has anxiety or other mental health struggles, as you learn a lot of coping strategies and how to be present.”

• “At first, I wasn’t sure about coming to this program because it didn’t sound like something that would be beneficial to me. However, after coming here, I can say that I have learned a lot about myself, what I need to work on, and how to do it.”

Refund Policy:

Your event fee, minus Eventbrite Fees, is fully refundable if cancelled 7 or more days before the event. In the case of a multi-day event, you must cancel 7 or more days before the first day of the event. No partial refunds are given if you cannot attend all days of the event.

While we appreciate being notified if you are unable to attend an event, refunds are not given for cancellations within 7 days of the event.

For events that are weather-dependent, a raindate/reschedule date is included in the event description. We do not offer refunds if an event is rescheduled for the specified date.

If we must cancel an event, your registration fee, including Eventbrite fees, will be refunded.