Some people call it walking or hiking. The Japanese call it forest bathing. People do it for different reasons, but for writers, it’s one of the best things we can do. Why?

– Because in order to write, we need to think and feel, first. And thinking at our desks (or our couches or wherever it is you write) — instead of out in fresh air, while we’re moving our bodies — is almost always a spectacularly bad idea.

– When we sit, our brains become dull and slow. When we walk or hike, our hearts pump faster and our brains and other organs get more blood and oxygen.

 – Scientists have shown that movement helps our memories work better and improves our attention.

– Walking also leads to new connections between brain cells.

– Walking in nature also has a positive impact on creativity. How can it not? Nature is the mother of metaphor.

So, let’s get out into the woods. Let’s write and talk and build and marvel at the wonder that is Inwood Hill Park, in upper Manhattan.

I’ve been hiking this park for twenty years. On June 9th, I want to share it with you.

When? June 9th, 2018, 11am-3pm (Rain date: June 10th)

Where? Inwood Hill Park, 207th Street and Seaman Avenue (on Manhattan Island) — Trains: 1 & A, Buses: Bx7, Bx12, Bx20, M100

Price? $40

This is a multi-genre workshop. We’ll be doing some hiking and lots of prompt driven writing. And, yes, we’ll be sharing, but only if you want.

Let’s take in the park and see if the wood nymphs inject some love into our pens, shall we?

What you’ll need:

– An offering to gift to the park (a piece of fruit, sage or other medicine, etc.)

– A journal and a pen

– Sneakers with traction – we’re hiking and may get off the paths a bit so be prepared!

– Long pants – because of mosquitoes and poison ivy

– Mosquito repellent – it’s June in NYC

– A snack – there are tons of restaurants and delis in the area so no worries.

Afterwards, we’ll get some fruit and sandwiches (and maybe some spirits for the wine lovers like me), and have a picnic on the grass (so bring a sheet if you’re staying).

How to register? Send me an email to writingourlivesworkshop@gmail.com with “Writing Our Lives in the Park” in the Subject Line.

There’s a nonrefundable $15 registration fee (which reserves your spot) that can be paid via Venmo, Zelle or PayPal. The remaining $25 balance is due when you arrive to the park.

Hope to see you soon!