Did you know that spending time in nature has incredible benefits for all of us? 

It's true! When we have regular opportunities to explore the outdoors, we develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for the natural environment. Plus, it's so much fun!

Being outside helps us improve our coordination and motor skills, and it allows us to assess our own abilities and take safe risks. This, in turn, boosts our self-confidence and self-awareness. And interacting with nature in gentle ways also teaches us empathy, self-control, and ignites a sense of wonder within us.

In this class, we're not aiming for a super formal, academic science course. Instead, we're creating a space where teens like you can connect with others who share a love for the outdoors. Together, we'll embark on a mindful exploration of nature and tap into our creativity.

This is an ongoing, weekly class, so you can join at any time! We're always excited to welcome new students into our group.

We won't follow a strict "weekly schedule" because each class will stand alone and be student-led. We'll have casual group discussions and sharing sessions. As your guide, I'll ensure kind and caring social interactions, encourage collaborative exploration of each other's discoveries, share my own experiences in nature, and provide a safe and inclusive space where we can build friendships, ignite our creativity, and freely share our ideas and questions.

When we gather online each week, you'll have the opportunity to share your journal entries, show us the items you've collected from nature, talk about your hikes and adventures, ask questions, and practice active listening and respectful sharing. It's a chance for us to discuss our outdoor explorations and truly get to know each other!

Before each class, I encourage you to spend at least an hour each week outdoors, exploring your backyard, a local park, or any natural setting nearby. It doesn't have to be the same day as class, and the space doesn't need to be large. Even a small patch of earth and open sky will do! But the more diverse the terrain, the more exciting the exploration!

Here's a suggested routine: Start by sitting quietly for about 10 minutes. Listen to the sounds around you, observe the beauty of nature, and then make a record of your experience in a nature journal. Let your creativity flow! You can include drawings, rubbings of nearby textures, pressed flowers and leaves, or simply write about what you see, feel, and feel. Don't worry about how much or how "well" you journal—just do your best and express your personal creativity. You can even use a digital camera or your phone to take pictures of your discoveries that can't be brought inside for sharing in class, although it's not required.

After your journaling session, spend the rest of your time outdoors exploring, collecting (except for living creatures—they're happiest in their natural habitat!), wondering, imagining, and engaging your whole being—body, mind, and spirit. It's a time for you to fully experience the outdoors. And for those who enjoy outdoor activities like walking, hiking, biking, and boating, try adding mindfulness to your practice. Be present and aware of your surroundings along the way.

Remember, all of this is optional and open to interpretation. Spend your time in nature in the ways that work best for you, and come to class ready to hang out and chat with others who share your love for being outside!