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, and sometimes thinking at our desks (or our couches or wherever it is you write) — instead of out in the 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, one of the last old growth forests in NYC. 

I’ve been hiking this park for more than twenty years. On September 22nd, I want to share it with you in honor of the Autumnal Equinox. 

When? September 22nd, 2019, 11am-3pm (Rain date: September 29th)

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

Price? $45

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 foliage, birds and insects 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 

– 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), 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 “WOL Hike and Write” 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 $30 balance is due by September 21st. 

Hope to see you soon!