Wassaic Wisdom Trail offers sanctuary
Michael “Pondhawk” Gulbrandsen, architect of and facilitator at the Peace Sanctuary’s Wisdom Trail, led a workshop along a walk as part of the Grand Opening on Saturday, Oct. 24. Photo submitted

Wassaic Wisdom Trail offers sanctuary

WASSAIC — Nature enthusiasts and local residents were invited to explore the forest of The World Peace Sanctuary during the Wisdom Trail’s Grand Opening and Walking the Trail Workshop on Saturday, Oct. 24. 

At 10 a.m., those present embarked on a pleasant walk along the trail with Michael “Pondhawk” Gulbrandsen, where they were encouraged “to become one with nature.” At the start of the guided workshop, the group officially opened “the four directions” before proceeding to the trail entrance with “drums to the heartbeat.” 

Once they were in the forest, they were coached to try to feel the forest and view it through nature’s eyes, to increase their awareness in order to relax and to be mindful as they walked. The workshop concluded with apple cider and doughnuts for all.

— Kaitlin Lyle

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