Book your fall retreat > Explore NYE at Kripalu > Donate today > HomeUpcoming Programs, Workshops, and Trainings On Campus Program Health, Fitness, and Wellness MINDFUL OUTDOOR GUIDE CERTIFICATION, LEVEL 1 Forest Community Presenter: Micah Mortali Presenter: Katie Hagel GO OUTSIDE. GO WITHIN. Join Kripalu faculty Micah Mortali and Katie Hagel for a return of the Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership training on campus. Grounded in the philosophy that meaningful connection with nature is an essential part of a healthy and balanced life, this training is an opportunity to develop and deepen your connection to the natural world. This Level 1 training—which combines an exploration of forest bathing, yoga, Ayurveda, outdoor skills, and an overview of relevant research on nature’s health benefits—is designed to engage yoga teachers, outdoor guides and educators, Ayurvedic practitioners, yoga therapists, and anyone who is passionate about sharing with others the benefits of being in nature. A connection with nature can be powerful catalysts for strengthening our and our clients’ bond with nature and, in doing so, improve the chances that our communities will steward the natural systems we all depend upon for our health and well-being. Curious About the Program? For a more in-depth view of the program, watch the pre-recorded Zoom information session with Micah Mortali, Founder and Dean of Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership, and Katie Hagel, ANFT-certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide and Kripalu Yoga instructor. Watch Now Learn more about the Kripalu School of Outdoor Mindful Leadership. As a Level 1 Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide (KSMOL), you gain foundational skills to lead individuals and small groups in connecting with nature. Through live online teachings, you explore The 9 Steps of a Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Experience. This practice, a unique method that provides a complete experience of connection with self, place, and community that is accessible, potent, and intuitive, is a signature of Kripalu programming and philosophy. Forest bathing fundamentals. Forest bathing, or shinrin yoku, is the practice of taking in the forest’s atmosphere through all the senses. This practice is a potent, proven method for relieving stress, boosting mood and immunity, and fostering deeper bonds with nature. Nature meditation and observation. Sitting quietly and mindfully in nature is a powerful way to become a part of the forest community. Practice the art of sitting in nature to expand awareness and become one with your surroundings. Group facilitation and council practice. For most of human history, people have gathered in a circle to share their stories. This practice, called Council, is an invaluable tool for building community, as well as developing communication and facilitation skills as a Mindful Outdoor Guide. The efficacy of nature therapy. Discover the latest scientific research on the health benefits of spending time in nature and learn to share these benefits with others. Animal and Plant Connection, Level 1. Animals and plants have so much to teach us about living and being on the land. Explore some of the common flora and fauna on the Kripalu grounds, including trees, basic animal tracks, scat, and signs. You also get to share your insights about the meaningful connections you have made with the forest community. Birthing Fire, Level 1. Learning how to safely and responsibly birth and tend a fire is an instrumental skill for Mindful Outdoor Guides. Here you experience the basics of fire-making using primitive techniques such as flint and steel and friction. You also explore fire as a potent tool for practicing meditation. Home project. Investigate opportunities to help connect people with nature in your community. During the break between Level 1 and Level 2, you will work on a personal project to present to your class. This project focuses on research you will conduct on some aspect of your home environment and how you plan to incorporate those elements into your work as a Mindful Outdoor Guide. Complete this training with the confidence and expertise to lead your own mindful outdoor experiences and a renewed sense of connection to the natural world around you. Preview the required reading and recommended reading lists as well as the suggested gear. Note Tuition includes a badge and certificate for each level completed. Program at a Glance Yoga Experience None Suitable For All Program Theme Professional Training Schedule Download Presenter(s) Micah Mortali is the Founder of the Kripalu School of Mindful Outdoor Leadership and author of Rewilding. FULL BIO AND PROGRAMS Katie Hagel, RYT-500, is a certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide, Ayurvedic Health Counselor, and Kripalu Yoga teacher. FULL BIO AND PROGRAMS Select a date below to register online: BOOK NOW April 22–May 1, 2022 | 9 nights Tuition $1074.00 per person + room and meals. Learn more about accommodations and pricing. View Kripalu’s safety protocols. Need help? Call Us: 866.200.5203 You Might Also Like Health, Fitness, and Wellness November 30–December 21, 2021 Tuesday-Tuesday: 21 nights BEFRIENDING WINTER Creative Expression December 3, 2021 Friday-1 night FUSION BELLY DANCE Self-Discovery December 10–12, 2021 Friday-Sunday: 2 nights GETTING THE LOVE YOU WANT Yoga December 10–12, 2021 Friday-Sunday: 2 nights TEACHING YIN YOGA CONTACT US 866.200.5203 Monday–Friday 10:00 am–4:00 pm EST Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health PO Box 309 57 Interlaken Road Stockbridge, MA 01262 DIRECTIONS MISSION DRIVEN, DONOR SUPPORTED We are a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to empowering people and communities to realize their full potential through the transformative wisdom and practice of yoga. MAKE A GIFT EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES STAY CONNECTED CONNECT WITH US Copyright © 2021 Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy Website Terms of Use