Conestee Nature Preserve hosts monthly ‘Mindfulness with the Meadow’ gatherings

Upstate residents seeking a reflective outdoor sanctuary can step into nature this weekend during Mindfulness with the Meadow, a monthly gathering dedicated to guided meditation, ecological reflection, and community connection.

The upcoming session will take place Sunday, Sept. 20, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Henderson Meadow within Conestee Nature Preserve, with parking designated at 601 Fork Shoals Road. The gathering operates on a suggested sliding-scale donation of $10 to $25, with a portion of each contribution directly supporting the preserve’s land conservation initiatives. Attendees are asked to RSVP through Meetup to reserve a spot.

Designed for individuals of all faith traditions or no spiritual background, the program draws inspiration from indigenous wisdom practices, the eco-spiritual teachings of Bill Plotkin, and Victoria Loorz’s book Church of the Wild. The gathering offers an alternative to indoor religious services, encouraging participants to form a direct, grounding relationship with the outdoor landscape.

The sessions are led by Andrea, an ordained Interfaith Minister, 500-hour yoga instructor, and Hakomi-informed somatic practitioner. Each monthly meetup follows an unhurried cadence that includes an opening welcoming circle, a four-directions land acknowledgment, and a brief grounding exercise before opening into a 30-minute “sacred wander and sit.” During this solo period, attendees explore the meadow at their own pace using gentle mindfulness prompts. A ceremonial drum calls participants back to close the morning with an open sharing circle and a communal song.

Organizers recommend wearing weather-appropriate layers and walking shoes suited for dirt trails, grass, and uneven ground. Attendees are also encouraged to bring drinking water, a sit pad or small blanket, sun and insect protection, and to leave mobile phones silenced or stored in their vehicles.

Following the September meetup, the series will continue with scheduled Sunday gatherings through the end of the year on Oct. 11, Nov. 15, and Dec. 20.

For additional details, registration, or questions, contact organizers via email at [email protected].