While many of us instinctively know the value of spending time in and around water, blue spaces—saltwater and inland freshwaters—are receiving increased interest from researchers who are investigating their impacts on our health, healing and learning. Preliminary studies, while sparse, suggest there are many positive outcomes to spending time near blue spaces. For this session, we’ll spend (physically distanced) time along a blue space, Climbers Run, letting the tumbling water carry away the extra stressors from the year. This restorative activity is the perfect way to unwind in a beautiful place on a Saturday afternoon. Please bring something to sit on, a journal or paper, and something to write with.

Cover photo by Michelle Johnsen Photography

About the Presenter

Kathy Chambliss, “Dr. Kathy,” is happiest when she is working alongside others to achieve shared goals that are regenerative and giving, and when she is hanging out with, beholding, and photographing other species in wilderness areas. For her, periods of silence are essential. Her formal education includes studies in plant science and horticulture (B. Sci.), secondary and environmental education (M.Ed.), and sustainability education (Ph.D.), as well as lots of violin and piano lessons. Her informal education includes the study and practice of contemplative activities such as mindfulness and yoga, experiential education, and natural history studies with an emphasis on birds, plants, reptiles and amphibians. She is most inspired by the phenomenon of migration, in particular, the birds that travel vast distances over the seas and connect us all together. A traveler and a volunteer, she has worked on citizen science and cultural projects in Thailand, Laos, Canada, Alaska, Delaware, Midway Atoll, and Haiti. Her current work with Goucher College & NorthBay Education fits her focus on projects and programs that empower, connect, and give.

Participant Safety

This event is being limited to a maximum of 20 participants. Participants are required to wear masks/face coverings and maintain a social distance of 6 feet from other participants, but it should be noted that the Lancaster Conservancy and its partners are not responsible for the behavior of participants regarding those requirements.

Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all time.

All participants will be required to sign a waiver when they arrive at the event.

What to Expect

Participants should bring something to sit on, a journal* or paper, and something to write with. We will check in (no need to print confirmation form) and gather at the lower outside patio of the Nature Center. There is a restroom on site.

Weather Policy

This event will take place rain or shine! Should there be a forecast of weather conditions that would make the event unsafe, participants will be notified of a cancellation 24 hours prior to the event.