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.
Mindfulness & Movement
April 9, 2024, 6:30-7:30pm at Jester Park Nature Center
Sometimes we forget we are part of nature, sharing water and air with all other beings on the planet. Controlling our breath and moving our bodies in focused ways can bring back a connection with the natural world. This class will offer ways to connect with breath, body and the earth, regardless of experience with yoga. Instructors will vary each month. Bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothes. This Rooted in Nature program is in sponsorship with Unity Point.
REGISTRATION: Required
DEADLINE: January 8, Feb. 11, March 4, April 8
COST: $15
AGES: 12+
Shinrin Yoku (Forest Bathing)
April 13, 2024, 1-3pm at Brown's Woods
May 11, 2024 - 1-3pm at Jester Park, Shelter #5
June 8, 2024 - 9-11am at Brown's Woods
August 24, 2024 - 9-11am at Fort Des Moines Park, Shelter #3
Explore the natural healing path of Shinrin Yoku or Japanese Forest bathing with Brandy Case Haub, a certified forest guide. This mindful walk will invite you to use your senses to enhance your well-being. This Rooted in Nature program is one of many being offered in sponsorship with Unity Point.
REGISTRATION: Required
DEADLINE: Two days prior
COST: $15
AGES: 12+
Shinrin Yoku and Kayaking Combo
July 12, 2024 - 1-4pm at Jester Park, Shelter #5
Enjoy a combo afternoon of mindfulness and kayaking. Participants will explore the natural healing path of Shinrin Yoku or Japanese Forest bathing with Brandy Case Haub, a certified forest guide. The first portion of class will be a slow, mindful walk through the woodland. The second part will be floating in a kayak on Discovery Pond and enjoying the restorative power of nature and water. No experience needed as this is a great introductory to kayaking. Paddles, life jackets and kayaks provided for the class. This Rooted in Nature program is offered in sponsorship with Unity Point.
REGISTRATION: Required
DEADLINE: July 10
FEE: $35
AGES: 12+
Hike for Health
April 22, 2024, 9:30-10:30am at Jester Park Nature Center
May 20, 2024 - 9:30-10:30am at Thomas Mitchell Park, meet at pond parking lot
June 17, 2024 - 9:30-10:30am at Easter Lake Park, Shelter #4
July 22, 2024 - 9:30-10:30am at Fort Des Moines Park, Shelter #3
August 19, 2024 - 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
May 20, 2024 - 7:30-9pm at Jester Park Nature Center
June 24, 2024 - 8-9:30pm at Jester Park Nature Center
July 23, 2024 - 7:30-9pm at Jester Park Nature Center
August 19, 2024 - 7-8:30pm at Jester Park Nature Center
Take time to unwind as the sun sets on the outdoor plaza or the Jester Park Nature Center. The class will begin with a short nature hike to give participants a chance to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The yoga class is perfect for beginners. The focus is on creating a mind and body nature connection as the sunsets. Items to bring: Yoga mat and blocks, hiking shoes, comfortable clothing, water bottle. In case of inclement weather, the class will be in the Nature Center.
REGISTRATION: Required
DEADLINE: Two days before the program
COST: $20/person
AGES: 12+
Animal Guide Meditation
June 28, 2024 - 6:30-8pm at Jester Park Nature Center
Each animal in our world offers powerful messages, healing and wisdom simply by being itself. Join Kara Simons for a guided meditation and discussion honoring our energetic and physical connections with animals as teachers and guides. Reframe your perception and explore the rich symbolism of animal characteristics and attributes, from birds to mammals to reptiles, amphibians and insects.
REGISTRATION: Required
DEADLINE: June 26
COST: $15 per person
AGES: 12+
Mindfulness and Movement
April 9
Shinrin Yoku
April 13, May 11, June 8, August 24
Shinrin Yoku & Kayaking Combo
July 12
Hike for Health
April 22, May 20, June 17, July 22, August 19
Animal Guide Meditation
June 28
Sunset Yoga
May 20, June 24, July 23, August 19
