The Summer Solstice, and the longest day of the year, is fast approaching. Solstice means “sun stands still,” giving us a moment to honor the stillness of this seasonal turning point, the stillness of the natural world, and our own inner stillness.

Join us on Friday, June 21 at 7 am to welcome the year’s longest day at the Greenberg Family Conservation Area in Westhampton. Dr. Robert A. Jonas (founder and director of The Empty Bell, a contemplative sanctuary in Northampton, shakuhachi flutist, and former Kestrel board chair) will lead a meditative walk in the forest and along the beautiful Sodom Brook as the longest day of the year emerges.

We’ll start with a brief introduction to mindful awareness in nature–what some now call “forest bathing”–and for a reflection on the solstice. We’ll then share a silent walk on some of the Greenberg property’s trails, stopping occasionally to share our experiences.

We will conclude by listening to some meditative shakuhachi flute music by Dr. Jonas, and a dialogue about the meaning of this special day.

This program is free but registration is required, and space is limited to 24 participants. There is no rain date for this event.