The Winter Solstice, and the longest night of the year, is fast approaching. Solstice means “sun stands still,” giving us a moment to pay homage to the stillness of this seasonal turning point, the stillness of the natural world, and our own inner stillness through the practice of mindfulness.

Join us on Wednesday, December 20 at 6 pm for an enchanting evening to celebrate the winter solstice at Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge in Hadley. Dr. Robert A. Jonas—founder and director of The Empty Bell, a contemplative sanctuary in Northampton,  shakuhachi flutist, and Kestrel board member—will lead a meditative woods walk as the longest night of the year approaches.

We’ll start with a brief introduction to mindfulness and reflection on the solstice, then we will share a silent walk along the Fort River Trail. This is a 1.1-mile universally accessible loop that meanders through 260 acres of diverse habitat and includes eight elevated boardwalks and seven scenic viewing decks with benches. We will conclude with hot apple cider and cookies at the gazebo, and some meditative shakuhachi flute music by Dr. Jonas.

 “Don’t think the garden loses its ecstasy in winter. It’s quiet, but the roots are down there riotous.” – Rumi

Registration is required, and space is limited to 25 participants. There is no rain/snow date for this event.

This program is co-sponsored by the Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge.