Mindful Birding

Mindful Birding
Friday, May 1, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Instructor: Topher Stephens

Mindful Birding is a practice of heightening our awareness and opening our senses—and our hearts—to the beauty of the natural world. Unlike traditional bird walks where identifying and listing species is the primary goal, this workshop invites participants to slow down and experience birds in a more attentive and reflective way.

Throughout the day, we will move slowly through the landscape, allowing ourselves the rare opportunity to observe individual birds with patience and curiosity. While we will certainly help participants spot birds and notice some of their distinctive characteristics, our focus will be on presence, observation, and connection rather than checklists.

Using birds as our guides, participants will explore ways to deepen their relationship with the living landscape while also becoming more aware of their own internal experiences of awe, joy, and wonder in nature. Through quiet observation, guided reflection, and gentle discussion, this workshop creates space to engage with birds—and the environment around us—in a more mindful and meaningful way.

Mindful Birding is designed to be welcoming and accessible to everyone. No experience with birding or mindfulness practices is necessary. In fact, we will all be cultivating a “beginner’s mind,” approaching the natural world with openness, curiosity, and fresh attention.

This workshop offers a unique opportunity to slow down, tune in, and rediscover the simple yet profound experience of being present in nature.

Please Bring

• Binoculars if you have them (loaner pairs will be available if needed)
• A lightweight Crazy Creek–style camp chair or small foam pad for sitting
• Weather-appropriate layers and comfortable outdoor footwear