Practicing in Nature
Sunday August 3, 2025
9:00am - 2:30pm
Ragle Ranch Park
500 Ragle Road, Sebastopol
We will walk, sit, create, and otherwise immerse ourselves in the beauty that surrounds us with gratitude and wonder.
Meet at the Lions Grove Picnic area, Ragle Ranch Park (directions at bottom of page).
Dana is gratefully accepted.
The day will begin with an opening ritual as we set our intention for the day, followed by mindful silent walking on mostly flat and shaded trails, for about a mile and a half distance (about 90 minutes of walking). We have planned 8 stops along the way where there is space for a brief opportunity to gather/drink water/arrange clothing/sit if a bench is available. Returning to the picnic area, we will have a short break to attend to personal needs and light snacks will be provided, followed by an Earth-honoring Service.
There will be a role for a few folk who feel unable to walk but want to be a part of the day, who will stay at the picnic area, which is mostly shaded.
After a brown-bag lunch, we will engage in a creative activity that arises out of place and our experience, with small-group sharing and a closing ritual.
Gretchen and Shelly, with Chris, will guide the day.
Things to bring: Brown-bag lunch, water, sun hat and/or screen, comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, a folding/camp chair for sitting in the picnic area, backpack (optional), leave rakusus at home
Contact Gretchen for more information.
SCHEDULE
9:00am- Arrive Lions Grove Group Picnic Area, Welcome and Orientation
9:30am- Zazen, Opening Ritual, Silent Mindful Walk
11:00am- Earth Dedication Service and Meal Chant
11:30pm- Brown-bag Lunch
12:00pm- Creative Activity
1:15pm- Small-group Sharing
2:00pm- Closing Ritual
End of day
ECOSATTVA VOW
by Joanna Macy
Based on my love of the world and understanding of deep interdependence of all things,
I vow:
To live in Earth more lightly and less violently in the food, products and energy I consume.
To commit myself daily to the healing of the world and the welfare of all beings; to discern and replace human systems of oppression and harm.
To invite personal discomfort as an opportunity to share in the challenge of our collective liberation.
To draw inspiration, strength and guidance from the living Earth, ancestors and the future generations, as well as siblings of all species.
To help others in their work for the world and to ask for help when I feel the need.
To pursue a daily spiritual practice that clarifies my mind, strengthens my heart and supports me in observing these vows.
Ragle Ranch is a Regional Park that requires a $8.00 fee to park. If you would prefer not to pay, there is parking available on Ragle Road and Covert Lane, just allow yourself more time to walk into the park.
After you enter the park, make the first right into the parking lot.
Someone will be near the path from the parking lot to orient folks to the picnic area
Call Shelly if you need help locating the Lions Grove
