Haiku, a simple 3-line poem originating in Japan, is a practice in present-moment awareness which invites us to open our hearts to what and how nature is speaking to us as we channel into words what our senses perceive. This act is transformative – you see and appreciate nature in an enhanced way.

Haiku is often compared to Zen meditation in its emphasis on simplicity, on being fully present to the here and now, and on the individual being in intimate relationship to all around. What results when we slow down, observe, and open our bodies, hearts, and minds to the world around us gifts us with “haiku moments.”

Traditionally haiku were often combined with art in a form called “haiga.” In this class, in the morning as we explore together in nature, you will have time to observe and to open to and express the “haiku moment.” Then in the afternoon through mixed-media art you will give your haiku visual form.  

No writing or art experience needed. A variety of mixed media art supplies and watercolor paper will be provided. Bring your journal for writing haiku. If you wish, you may want to bring your own art-journal (recommended 90 to 140 lb paper for mixed media). Also bring special magazines, photos, or personal items for your art process as desired. A materials fee is incluceed with your registration. Please bring your own lunch and beverages.

Kaleo and Elise Ching have co-taught (35 years) Qigong, guided journeys, and transformative art processes to connect with realms of nature beyond and within. They co-taught for John F. Kennedy University (25 years), Institute of Transpersonal Psychology, ILM/LucasFilms, and other venues nationally and internationally. They coauthored Chi and Creativity: Vital Energy and Your Inner Artist (Blue Snake Books, 2007) et al.

Photo Credit: Avani Fachon

Details

-We will be meeting at the Red Barn Classroom in Bear Valley, Point Reyes

– Please arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in

– Refunds available for all classes 7 days in advance of the start date, after 7 days and before 2 days, participants can credit their class for a future date. All requests before 48 hours in advance will be declined. For COVID policy, see below.

– Please follow the parking instructions for the facility used that day

– Please provide an email you check regularly for updates and reminders about your class

– Registration is required online prior to the event in order to maintain class sizes

– Sales end 48 hours before the start date.

– Waitlists are available when the class sells out

What to Bring

Journal for writing haiku

If you wish, your own art-journal (recommended 90 to 140 lb paper for mixed media) special magazines, photos, or personal items for your art process

Day Pack

Lunch

Warm Variable Weather Clothing

Hiking Shoes

Water Bottle

Notebook and Pen/Field Journal

Eventbrite Confirmation Email

Binoculars (Optional)

Camera (Optional)

About the PRNSA Field Institute

The PRNSA Field Institute offers hands-on environmental education classes throughout the year that foster enjoyment of Point Reyes National Seashore. Our classes are led by expert instructors, who take you out of your everyday life and into the natural world. We host a variety of classes about the arts and sciences and have something for everyone. You can reach the Field Institute at (415) 663-1200 x304 or by email at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

Interested in becoming a member of PRNSA? Click Here!

Interested in becoming a PRNSA Field Institute volunteer facilitator, or are you an outdoor educator or artist who would like to teach a PRNSA Field Institute class? Send an Email!

For any questions, please email us at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

COVID-19 Field Institute Guidelines

Please respect the following COVID-19 procedures:

· Perform a health self-check before coming to class using the CDC Symptoms of Coronavirus as a guide

· Do not attend class if you are experiencing COVID symptoms, know that you have had a close exposure, or are suffering from any flu-like or respiratory illness

· Contact the Field Institute if you will not be able to attend due to COVID. You may be eligible to receive a full or partial refund

· Participants exhibiting signs of respiratory illness may be asked to leave class

· Masks are optional at your discretion

· Please bring your own food and water

All guidelines are subject to change pursuant to State or County Health order updates.

Thank you for your cooperation in following these guidelines to help keep everyone safe.