Tending to your body and mind
As summer bows out and a new season emerges, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is inviting guests to slow down, spend time in nature, and focus on wellbeing. This fall’s slate of education classes includes a sold-out Yin Yoga Experience (held on Sept. 7), forest therapy walks, and art classes that connect the artist with seasonal showstoppers like the Garden’s popular Dahlia collection.
With classes starting at $20, and scholarships available, a ticket covers the class and admission to the Gardens. Educational offerings are available for both adults and children.
Classes do sell out quickly. Here are a couple of not-to-miss opportunities:
Finding Wonder: Nature Journaling and Field Sketching, Saturday, Oct. 4
Maine artist, author/illustrator, and naturalist Rebekah Lowell will teach an introductory nature journaling workshop. Participants will explore what nature journaling is and the many ways it can deepen a relationship with the natural world. No art experience is necessary; nature journaling is for everyone.
Visible Mending: The Value of Repair, Sunday, Oct. 5
Empower yourself with the skills to mend clothing and give new life to well-loved garments through the beautiful and sustainable practice of Visible Mending. This gentle and fun workshop will explore the basics of visible clothing repair – an artful approach that not only fixes what is torn but also adds beauty in the process.
Painting Architecture and Botanicals in the Fall Gardens, Monday-Wednesday, Oct. 6-8
Guided by Maine artist Susan Bartlett Rice, you’ll create your own paintings inspired by the stunning autumn surroundings. No prior experience is necessary—just bring your creativity and a love for art and nature!
Golden Hour: Nature Writing Workshop, Friday, Nov. 8
Visit the Gardens after the official close of the season for a Nature Writing workshop with writer and poet Andy Juele. Learn how to develop a writing practice that deepens your connection to the natural world. This workshop will explore themes of the environment, self, and community, with time spent outside in the Gardens and trails for inspiration.
All classes are available for online registration at mainegardens.org or by calling 207-633-8000.