“Nature of YOU” ~ Mindful Nature Connection Experiences
Step into the sacred embrace of nature and reconnect with the essence of your being—your own true nature.
Public and custom private events throughout SLO County
Nourished and Nurtured by Nature
Join us for holistic mindfulness-based nature experiences:
Meet up in serene locations for a variety of experiences ranging from mindful nature walks to half or full day retreat experiences— in the quiet of the forest, by the calming sea, under a full moon, or witness sunrise! !
Let nature be your guide – it’s a wellspring of inspiration for self-care and personal growth.
Unlock deeper insights into your own inner landscape. Feel nature’s wisdom nourish the deepest depths of your heart and soul.
Through simple, yet profound practices, you’ll nurture a healthy, balanced, and wholesome YOU!
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- The practice of mindfulness
- Practice in nature
- The practice of silence
- Practice in solitude
- The practice of sharing in community
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Practice of Mindfulness:
Nature connection offers a unique opportunity to explore and deepen the art of mindful living. Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, aware of what you are thinking, feeling, and doing, without being swept away by it.
In each moment, you are invited to stay with your experience as it naturally unfolds. Whether you are walking to the bathroom, washing your hands, drinking water or tea, or listening to the sounds around you—everything can be practiced with mindful attention. Observe the details of your surroundings: look, listen, and let go.
Notice how you feel, breathe it in, and allow yourself to become fully present—where your mind and body unite as one. True mindfulness is when you are completely here, connected to each moment.
To support deeper immersion in mindfulness, participants are encouraged to unplug from digital devices and limit distractions. This helps cultivate a greater connection with yourself and your surroundings, enhancing the retreat experience.
No prior experience with mindfulness or meditation is necessary—beginners are warmly welcomed and encouraged to join! Simply bring your curiosity and an open heart. You will leave with renewed intentions and inspiration, equipped to respond to life’s ups and downs with grace and skill.
Practice in Nature:
Our experiences in serene, natural settings, offer the perfect environment to disconnect from daily distractions and reconnect with the tranquility of nature. These peaceful surroundings create space for deeper reflection and personal growth.
Re-discover the lost treasures of harmony, balance, and inner peace through the wisdom teachings of the whisper of the wind, the warmth of the sun, and the grounding touch of the earth—each offering infinite inspiration to those who take the time to be still and listen.
Depending on the type of outing, participants often enjoy free time for personal reflection, journaling, or simply soaking in the calm and beauty of the natural world. Nature invites you to slow down, be present, and cultivate a sense of peace and balance.
Practice of Silence:
We will spend much of our time in “the sweet territory of silence”, allowing for deeper inward reflection and meditation. This sacred silence helps foster a heightened sense of awareness and presence.
In silence, the body has an opportunity to settle, the mind begins to clear, and awareness naturally sharpens. As distractions fade away, space opens for insight, clarity, understanding, discernment – the qualities for wisdom and personal growth to emerge.
Wait, listen, repeat.
Practice in Solitude (Kind of):
Though we gather as a group, each of us is also practicing solitude. Solitude is not about isolating ourselves in a distant cave; rather, it arises from a stable heart that remains unmoved by sorrows of the past, worries of the future, or excitement in the present.
While we participate together, we are also exploring our own inner world. It may feel unusual at first to refrain from socializing, but allow yourself the opportunity to explore your inner terrain in this safe and supportive “container.” Take refuge in your mindful breathing.
Returning to the present moment is like returning to the beautiful, serene island within each of us. The presence of the group offers support, reminding us of our own capacity for mindfulness. Embrace this practice as a return to your inner sanctuary, where you can cultivate peace and insight.
Practice of Sharing in Community:
Our group gatherings provide a sense of community and shared experience, where participants are invited to share and reflect on their mindfulness practice—whether it’s joys, insights, challenges, or questions. When sharing, we encourage everyone to speak from their own personal experiences rather than abstract ideas or topics.
By expressing both the happiness and difficulties we encounter in our practice, we contribute to the collective insight and understanding of the group. Sharing is a valuable opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences, often revealing that many of us face similar challenges.
Practicing deep listening when others share fosters a calm, safe, and supportive environment for everyone. As we sit, listen, and share together, we begin to recognize our true connection to one another.
Please remember that whatever is shared within the group remains confidential. If someone discusses a personal difficulty, respect their boundaries—acknowledging that they may or may not wish to continue the conversation outside of the group sharing time.
Retreat and Unplug from the noise of everyday life!
Getting out in nature is the perfect place to retreat and take a mindful, peaceful pause from the demands of life. It’s a journey inward to reconnect with the sacredness and meaning of life.
Mindful Meet-up Walks: In recent years our YOUniversity mindfulness-based Nature Connection Experiences have been in the form of Mindful Meet-up Walks following the principles and practices outlined above.
Half or Full day Retreats: We may return to our half/full day retreats as we have in years past (but the venue I used is no longer an option). I am open to collaborating with others. We can engage in a variety of activities which may include any combination of these options:
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- Mindfulness-based nature-connection experiences – where the ocean or trees breathe with you and the “wisdom teachings” from nature unlock deeper insights into your own inner landscape;
- Sensations and Sound Immersion Journeys that resonate with the very core of your being — emotional entanglements loosen, stress melts away, revitalizing energies emerge, and your body balances and harmonizes with its natural, healthy vibrational state — your true nature!
- Drumming that connects you with the primal heartbeat and rhythms on all of life.
- Creative expression through art and/or movement to allow your spirit to merge with the elements.
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Your Guide ~ Dee DiGioia
I am honored for the opportunity to assist you in cultivating mindful self-care practice through a deeper connection to nature. Make this the year your “well” of well-being stays abundant and full!
Navigating and flowing through life in healthy, balanced, and positive ways requires a holistic approach that integrates various practices and teachings. By combining science, psychology, nature, and ancient wisdom, you can build a foundation for strength, resilience, health, and happiness.
This holistic approach is crucial in helping you achieve balance and fulfillment in your life. By integrating these practices and principles into daily life, you can learn how to navigate life’s challenges more skillfully and transform your life into harmony with your true nature. ~Dee DiGioia
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WHEN and WHERE?
Public and custom private events – San Luis Obispo County, CA
Request a PRIVATE custom mini-retreat
Inquire about a PRIVATE custom mini-retreat for resilience and well-being (couples, families, friends, co-workers). Your place or mine. Retreats may combine and include any of our other offerings – Sound Immersion Journeys / Drumming Circles / Rhythm & Song Circles. Collaborations welcome!
