The Adventure:
Unplug and connect with nature on a mindful hike in the inspiring Lake Tahoe basin. This adventure is designed for 8- to 13-year-old children and is a technology-free event. All participants should have a fitness level enabling them to hike outdoors over uneven terrain with a light backpack for approximately 1 hour, with frequent breaks. All equipment is provided. We are honored and delighted to have this hike guided by the Tahoe Rim Trail Association and the Tahoe Institute for Natural Science.
Why Mindfulness Hiking?
Hiking encourages mental clarity, connectedness to nature and serenity.
Hiking provides opportunities for introspection, increased awareness and knowledge of one’s self and the environment, connectedness to others and relaxation. It promotes moving meditation, encouraging mindfulness of the present moment and peacefulness of mind and body - building respect for the environment, gratitude, perspective and skills for stress reduction.
Consider for:
Children who struggle with tension, nervousness, worry, or stress
Children who struggle with loneliness, isolation, or negative thinking
Children who struggle with withdrawal, avoidance, or low mood
Children who struggle with adjustment, adaptability, or transitions
Natural Elements:
The mindful focus of each event will center upon the natural elements available. Consistent with mindfulness-based therapies, each element embodies a quality which can promote emotional stability and well-being. Hiking offers:
Flower: Qualities of openness, flexibility, perfection and beauty as is.
Promotes feeling fresh, energetic, & resilient.
Water: Qualities of reflecting, tranquil, & seeing things clearly as they are.
Promotes feeling calm, still and quiet.
Mountain: Qualities of a solid, calm, & unwavering nature.
Promotes feeling strong, confident, and determined.
Open Space: Qualities of freedom, openness, & welcoming of all.
Promotes feeling free, light, relaxed and peaceful.
Environmental Policy:
At The Courage Project, we seek to promote environmental stewardship and self-efficacy through Leave No Trace policies. Consistent with this vision, we ask that no single use plastic bottles be brought to the event. Each participant will be provided with a water bottle and snack. Please pack out all items you packed in and strive to leave the natural environment untouched.