Join Columbia Slough Watershed Council and facilitator Irene Bailey of Temenos Rising for a playful and restorative paddling experience that weaves together forest bathing and canoeing. This event is free and offered for all who identify as female, femme, and/or non-binary. Open to those 16 and older. All minors must be accompanied by an adult. No prior paddling experience required.
This is an opportunity to deepen and explore connection with the natural world in a mindful and playful way. Traveling by canoe, we will move slowly and intentionally through the landscape tapping into wonder, presence, and curiosity. We’ll weave together gentle paddling, mindful movement, moments of stillness, and guided sensory invitations. By slowing down and listening deeply, we create space to experience the quiet wisdom of the living world and remember ourselves as participants in, rather than observers of, the Earth community. Inspired by the practice of forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku), this experience invites us to engage our senses, tap into awareness, and cultivate a deeper relationship with the natural world.
Research has shown that slowing down and being present in nature can help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, improve mood, and foster a greater sense of calm and connection. The peaceful rhythm of paddling, the gentle movement of the water, and intentional pauses for observation create ideal conditions for restoration. Along the way, you'll be invited to notice the relationships between water, plants, wildlife, weather, and the surrounding ecosystem while exploring how these interactions can deepen our own sense of belonging within nature.
This experience is not about paddling a certain distance or learning technical canoe skills. Instead, it is an invitation to explore the water and surroundings with curiosity, playfulness, and attention. Together, we'll create space for quiet reflection, shared discovery, and meaningful connection ~ with the landscape, with ourselves, and with one another. Whether you're new to forest bathing or an experienced paddler, you'll leave with simple practices that can help you cultivate greater presence and connection anytime you are outdoors.
Irene Bailey is the founder and director of Temenos Rising, where she shares retreats, trainings, forest bathing walks, and coaching, all held in deep relationship with the natural world. Irene is a certified Forest Therapy Guide with the Association of Nature and Forest.
Getting there: This paddle will be held at Whitaker Ponds. We will be launching into the Whitaker Slough. Free parking is available on site.
Taking public transportation? Bus #75 stops at NE 47th Ave and Columbia Blvd. Walk north on NE 47th Ave about 0.25 miles, and Whitaker Ponds Nature Park will be on your right.
What to bring: Leave large bags and backpacks at home. Pack along water and come prepared for the weather. Boats, life jackets, and paddles will be provided. We will have snacks, drinks, and binoculars to share!
Accessibility: A porta potty is available. This event requires participants to be able to get into and out of a canoe from a dock as well as stay seated for ~1.5 hours. Previous paddling experience is not required. Expect full sun exposure. Gravel/dirt path to the dock. No elevation change.
Questions or want to join the wait list if the event is full? Reach out to Ced, at Cedrion.Gloria@columbiaslough.org.
