All too often we are so busy sweating the big stuff that we lose sight of the small things that can centre us in everyday life; the sound of birdsong, the feel of leaves crunching under our feet as we walk, the smell of flowers in bloom. Evidence is mounting that time spent in nature has multiple benefits, for physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. Kathy Whitta from Gawler Environment Centre will introduce the evidence base for the benefits of time spent in nature, take us on quick tour of cultural practices for connecting with nature, and outline some simple ways you can maintain nature connection in your daily life. Jasmine Hornby from Riverdell Spiritual Centre will then lead a grounding earth yoga flow, which will be followed by a break for a plant based healthy high tea. Following the break local artist and Gawler Environment Centre volunteer Gem Congdon will take us on a journey of nature based observation and creative inspiration through nature journaling (journals provided). Join us for an afternoon of place-based bliss!
Please bring a water bottle & an open mind & heart.
Meet Our Facilitators:
Kathy Whitta:
Kathy Whitta is the Coordinator at Gawler Environment Centre, a local not-for-profit with a mission to collaborate with community to create thriving environments and sustainable lives. The GEC runs workshops on everything from plant propagation to beeswax wrap making, and manages events and projects such as the Understorey native plant sale, the Sustainable Living Festival, and the soon-to-launch Gawler Repair Café.
Jasmine Hornby:
I have been practicing yoga for around 5 years (minus my childhood years with mum in front of the VHS) Initially I pursued yoga as a physical practice but as I continued on my path I realised that practicing yoga was so much more than the physical.
In 2016 I completed my 200 hour Hatha & Yin Teacher Training at the Yoga Barn in Ubud, Bali through the School of Sacred Arts. Since then I have completed my Pre-Natal teacher training and have just arrived home completely inspired from Peru after completing my advance 300 Hour Teacher Training with the Kula Collective.
I love my practice and teaching as it allows me space to soften, become present, digest and explore my experiences, sensations and thoughts.
I teach to provide individuals with a greater sense of self, moving back into their bodies and bringing the mind, body and breath back into union. I teach not just help the physical but the mental and emotional. I love watching people leave class feeling recharged and calm.My practice has helped me grow stronger both on and off the mat, and serves me as a daily reminder to live each moment more mindfully. Since my initial teacher training I have taught in many settings, in the local community through Bend and Mend, True North Yoga, Riverdell Spiritual Centre, Falls Festival and Well-Being programs in local schools and organisations.
