Observing Nature: Inward and Outward

Free yourself from your mental gerbil wheel and experience the peace and focus that come from simply being present! The peaceful forest environment of the School of Conservation is the perfect place to accomplish this! In “Observing Nature: Inward and Outward,” you’ll learn how to still your mind, open your heart, open your eyes, and open your higher senses to take in what is going on within and around you at all times. The practical skills you learn to strengthen your own powers of observation will help make it easier to navigate the world and its unexpected surprises in order to succeed at reaching your goals.

This program is designed for ages 12* to adult (*children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult), and no prior experience is required– just a love of nature and learning. Instructor-led activities will include simple, yet powerful, mindfulness techniques, deep relaxation instruction, nature observation walks (some silent), private journaling, and cell phone nature photography,

This popular program is now in its third year and is led by Peter Del Vecchio, using his training and life experiences as both a keen observer of the natural world and yogic mindfulness guide. Here’s what previous participants have had to say about Observing Nature: Inward and Outward:

• “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.