Positive Psychology class savors mindful lesson at Rider Park

Students in Positive Psychology (PSY 410) engaged in a field trip to Rider Park in Trout Run on Feb. 19 to take part in an introduction to "mindful forest bathing."

Susan Slamka, associate professor of psychology at Pennsylvania College of Technology, explained, "Nature bathing is one of the many concepts students in Positive Psychology learn about that is associated with increased happiness, well-being and physical wellness."

Students received an introduction to the sensory and mindfulness components of forest bathing through three guided exercises inviting interactions with nature. The outing was led by Beth Jones, director of Deep Green Journey. A certified nature and forest therapy guide and an ordained pastor in the United Methodist Church, Jones has been leading therapeutic hikes, also referred to as forest or nature bathing, since 2017. 

Slamka's class also met with Sara Street, manager of Rider Park, to learn about the offerings of the 867-acre park, which is only a 20-minute drive from the Penn College campus.