Dear friends, on Monday June 16th we are proposing a day of “forest mindfulness” with a (mostly) silent hike on stunning Dharug and Gundungurra country in the Blue Mountains.
We have two possible routes, to be decided depending on weather conditions: The first is atmospheric traverse of the Grand Canyon walk, meeting at Katoomba airstrip. If the day is warmer and/or windy, we’ll likely choose this walk. The second option is the Lockley Pylon walk, more exposed, but with spectacular views. If the day is still and/or colder we’ll likely opt for this one.
Both walks are around 7km, and while are mostly on formed tracks, may include some rougher sections, steps, and steep climbs. The weather will also be wintry (“but as they say in Norway, “Det finnes ikke dårlig vær, bare dårlig klær!” no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes”!) So a good level of fitness is recommended. In both cases we will meet at the trailhead at around 9 am, and in the Grand Canyon case, arrange a shuttle to collect us at the other end around 4pm.
Our day will include a session of Qi-gong mindful movements before we walk. Br Tenzin will share some brief reflections on the practice of “mindful hiking” before we depart. We will find some places to enjoy a snack and short sits in silence along the way, as well as a beautiful spot for lunch. The walk will be self-catered, but we can help with logistics getting there and away for those who opt to use public transport to get to the mountains for example.
COST: We ask for a contribution of $25 per person towards our costs for the event, including our affiliation with Bushwalking NSW and our insurance. IMPORTANT: If you are keen to join but don’t have the means to offer this amount, please let us know. We always try to make our events as accessible as possible, and a concession may be available. If you have the means to offer more, please consider doing so, as your contribution may help another, now or in future, to join such an event. Teachings and facilitation of all Gaia Forest events are offered on a dana (donation) basis, as is the buddhist tradition, with opportunities to offer on the day or later electronically.
We will aim to have a manageable group size of maximum 10 people, so please contact us ASAP if you are interested. _/\_
