Walk, Meditate, Forage, Create. Listen, see and feel what is coming up through the surface of the earth. Go inward while connecting with nature and others. First we “forest bathe” by engaging in a meditative walk through Central Park. We forage for what speaks to us, sketch and journal what inklings of life are emerging for us. Then we head back to the beautiful studio space at 57 West 57 and move intuitively, create eco-prints, nature structures, and share what emerged and is emerging. We end with a collective community ritual. The theme is EMERGENCE. The light is getting longer. The earth is coming to life. What is coming up for you? Is it connecting with those around you? Join us at this workshop and find out.

Art & Nature for Positive Psychology

Nature is a prescription for wellness. When we connect to the seasons, the natural cycles of the earth, observe natural objects with intention, research shows it shows fires endorphins, lowers blood pressure, and brings the body systems to homeostatic equilibrium. Eco-therapy or even nature walking has been prescribed for the alleviation of many long-term ailments by medical doctors. In this workshop, we will get green, forage, feel and create with nature’s bounty. Every session is different depending on the seasons: one can make an eco-sculpture, another an herbal infusion and essential oils, in yet another we can recycle paper and leaves to make baskets or an eco-print.

Rumi is the poet of mystical love. In this workshop we open our souls to the mystic intensity of Rumi’s verse and combine it with the Sufi tradition of whirling dervish dancing. Using his poetry as inspiration, we will go into a “trance-like state” to uncover the love within us, dance with the universe, and laugh with the knowledge that we are connected in Love that transcends time, culture, and ego. Awaken your soul to the Divinity of Love!

This workshop includes:

-introduction to the life and work of Rumi

-journaling, visual and verbal, to some of the most poignant verses of his compendium

-aromatherapy of love: creating rose essential oil bath bombs with goat milk, rose petals, rose water, organic coconut oil

-get into a trance with whirling dervish dance the mystical dance of the Sufis

-synthesis ceremony combing short verses, visual art, and dance inspired by The Master

Where: 57 West 57th Street, Chelsea Bizub Penthouse

When: March 15th, 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm

Who: Eirene, teacher/writer/poet and expressive arts consultant/educator with professional training by the International Expressive Arts Association established by Natalie and Carl Rogers.

Life is a journey. In this workshop we are inspired by maps, both physical and fantastical, to create our own maps through our lives. At the end of the workshop you will gain a deeper insight into your life journey; reflect on what the journey in all its twists and turns has meant for you; gain clarity as to which direction you are heading. You will engage in journaling and visual map making to create a symbolic visual map that you can return to for understanding and insight.

All materials included with facilitation by a professional teacher, artist, and consultant following the practices and ethical standards of the International Expressive Arts Therapy Association.