Rooted in Nature
Connect with Nature by hiking a trail, exploring a park, kayaking or canoeing, picnicking in the park, birding at a PCC natural area, registering for a Rooted in Nature program. Take time out and enjoy nature at one of 23 Polk County Conservation parks and natural areas.
Wellness Programs
Research has proven time in nature lowers blood pressure, improves depression, anxiety and decreases cortisol levels. Trees and plants in nature give off chemicals called Phytoncides. These forest chemicals boost the immune system, improve mental health, and self-esteem. Many doctors are now prescribing nature to improve the patients overall health and wellness.
Dr. Suzanne Bartlett Hackenmiller, Integrative Physician and one of the first certified forest therapy guides in Iowa says, “There’s just been an explosion of interest in this in the last coop couple of years, and an increasing understanding that this is real medicine, both by people who practice it and in health care.”
One example of the Rooted in Nature programs is Shinrin-Yoku. Shinrin-Yoku, a Japanese term meaning, “forest bathing”, is a guided mindful nature practice where participants are invited to explore their natural surroundings via various sensory experiences. Research finds that time spent in nature, in this way, offers health benefits ranging from improved mental well-being and memory to reducing cortisol levels, fighting cancer, and improving heart health.
Watch these videos to learn more about Shinrin Yoku and Sunset Yoga.
Hike for Health
May 19, 2025 - 9:30-10:30am at Easter Lake Park
June 16, 2025 - 9:30-10:30am at Fort Des Moines Park
July 21, 2025 - 9:30-10:30am at Thomas Mitchell Park
August 11, 2025 - 9:30-10:30am at Brown's Woods
Why walk the mall when you can be enjoying the great outdoors? Hike along with this friendly group of nature lovers who walk the trails each month for exercise and fun.
REGISTRATION: Required
DEADLINE: The day before
COST: Free
AGES: 10+
Sunset Yoga
June 3, 2025 @ 7:30-9pm at Easter Lake Event Center
June 16, 2025 @ 8-9:30pm at JPNC
July 1, 2025 @ 8-9:30pm at Easter Lake Event Center
July 21, 2025 @ 8-9:30pm at JPNC
August 5, 2025 @ 8-9:30pm at Easter Lake Event Center
August 11, 2025 @ 7:30-9pm at JPNC
Take time to unwind as the sun sets on outdoor plaza of the Jester Park Nature Center or the beach at Easter Lake. This gentle yoga class will focus on creating a mind and body nature connection as the sun sets. This Rooted in Nature program is offered in sponsorship with Unity Point. Items to bring: yoga mat and block, comfortable clothing and water bottle.
REGISTRATION: Required
DEADLINE: One day before the program
COST: $15
AGES: 12+
Forest Bathing (Shinrin Yoku)
May 4, 2025 from 1-3pm at Jester Park, Shelter #5
August 3, 2025 from 9-11am at Fort Des Moines Park
Explore the natural healing path of Shinrin Yoku or Japanese forest bathing with Brandy Case Haub, a certified forest guide. This mindful nature exploration will invite you to use your senses to enhance your well-being. Enjoy a 2-hour nature retreat and reconnect with nature. This Rooted in Nature program is offered in sponsorship with Unity Point.
REGISTRATION: Required
DEADLINE: Day before
COST: $20
AGES: 13+
Sunset Paddle at Easter Lake
Join us for a relaxing evening on the lake! Learn the basics of kayaking before hitting the water to explore Easter Lake and watch the sunset on the water. All equipment will be provided. We will meet outside of the Easter Lake Event Center at the listed start time. Please bring a water, and dress in clothes and sturdy shoes you do not mind getting wet.
REGISTRATION: Required
DEADLINE: The day before
COST: $20
AGES: 12+
Hike for Health
May 19, June 16, July 21, August 11
Sunset Yoga
May 19, June 3, June 16, July 1, July 21, August 5, August 11
Forest Bathing
May 4, August 3
Sunset Paddle
June 13, June 25, July 11, July 23, August 1, August 13
