Registration Requirements: Preregistration required. First come, first served. 

Audience: This program is for adults who are grieving and is available on a first-come, first-served basis at no cost through a generous contribution by the Goldstein Family Grief Center. 

Program Description: The Goldstein Family Grief Center is partnering with the Cincinnati Nature Center to offer an all-day grief retreat. Many people find the seasons to be symbolic in their grief journey and can often find solace in nature.  

What to Expect: This program will offer opportunities for self-reflection, group discussion, tools for coping, and time in nature. Forest bathing experiences and self-guided walks will take place entirely outdoors on mostly flat trails; no steps or creek crossings involved (though other trails with hills and steps are available). Forest bathing guides will adjust the walk based on ability. Forest bathing experiences follow a standard sequence that includes quiet, slow, attentive walking, guided sensory experiences, individual mindful time, opportunities for group sharing, and a closing tea ceremony using foraged ingredients. We’ll be standing or sitting on the ground during the periods of sharing.  

Grief programming will be led by the staff at the Goldstein Family Grief Center with the support of volunteers.  A representative from Goldstein Family Grief Center will be present throughout the day. 

• Catered lunch is included.
• Restrooms are available at the start and end of the program. Restrooms are not available on the trails.
• This program is mostly outdoors, with indoor options available in the case of severe weather. Trails are accessible (packed gravel trails, mild hills).
• Participants will be able to choose a group that stays close to the building or a group that ventures out a little further. Distance walked is varied; participants will be able to choose a group that stays close to the building or a group that ventures out a little further. Participants will be able to choose a group with a pace to their liking.

About the Forest Bathing Guides: Ellen Foley and Dave Thaeler are Forest Therapy Guides certified with the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy. Ellen’s experiences finding solace in nature inspire her to guide others in mindfully walking through and connecting with the natural world. Dave is a retired teacher. He likes how going on a forest bathing walk in a group has a way of deepening the experience for the individual. 

What to Bring: Consider bringing your own lightweight camp chair or a sit-upon (jacket, towel, etc.). A limited number of sit-pads are available. 

How to Dress: We will be out on the trails and moving slowly for part of the day. Please dress in layers to ensure proper warmth and comfort and wear shoes suitable for the trail.

Where to Meet: Registered participants will meet at the Groesbeck Estate at our Rowe Woods location (4949 Tealtown Rd., Milford, OH 45150). 

Cost: This program is offered at no cost through a generous contribution by the Goldstein Family Grief Center. Ticket fees include daily admission. 

Check your email for registration information regarding this transaction. SAVE A TREE, please retain your order number or save an electronic copy of the email acknowledgement as a receipt. You may be asked for your order number from your transaction to gain entry at the gate/to attend your program. Visitor Services associates can also verify your etickets from the order number or by name.

Please note that our program and cancellation policies vary. By completing registration for this program, you agree to the following general program policies.