Kristin- Downtown Dharma 8/16 at 11am

Piloted in 2021, "WELLderness: An Outdoor Wellness Series" was developed to bring members of the community together (in person and online) to engage in activities that would have a positive impact on their physical and mental health and well-being. Throughout the year, people have the opportunity to participate in FREE events that center around fostering better connections to self and the environment.

**Masks are no longer required. They remain optional for those who wish to wear one during a Friends event**

About the Instructor

Shawn Shafner is a multidisciplinary artist, educator, advocate and mindfulness practitioner based out of Washington, DC. Blending backgrounds in devised theater, public health, sustainable food activism, education, embodied music making, faith-based ritual and secular mindfulness, he is on a mission to help communities foster a fiercely loving relationship with their bodies, planet, and global neighbors. The taboo-busting founder of The People's Own Organic Power Project (www.thePOOPproject.org), you can also catch him leading workshops in fermentation for the US Botanic Gardens, facilitating retreats with Trybal Gatherings, and coaching individuals in public speaking, voice work, and presence. www.ShawnShafner.com

What you will be doing

Everyone in DC knows that Kenilworth Gardens is the best place to see beautiful lotus blossoms. But did you know that the lotus is revered in Buddhism and many East Asian traditions for representing purity, resilience and enlightenment? Join the Downtown Dharma community and meditation teacher Shawn Shafner for a chance to enjoy sitting peacefully together, walking mindfully through the gardens, learning about the lotus flower's importance in the Buddhist tradition, and discussing its relevance to our own life. No mindfulness experience necessary!

When

Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 11:00am. Check-in opens at 10:45am.

Where

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, 1550 Anacostia Ave Northeast, Washington, DC 20019. Participants will meet at the picnic area past the visitor center.

Getting There

By car, there is a large visitors parking lot at the park entrance on Anacostia Ave and abundant street parking surrounding the park. By Metro, the park entrance is 1.0 mile from the Deanwood Metro Station and 1.3 miles from the Minnesota Ave Station, both on the Orange Line. By foot or bike, access the park via the Anacostia River Trail.

What to Bring

Participants should bring a water bottle, yoga mat, snack, bug spray, sun protection, and/or anything else one may carry when spending time outdoors. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes for being outdoors.

Contact

For questions or concerns reach out to Alivia at YWxpdmlhIHwgZm9rYWcgISBvcmc=.

Learn about Friends of Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter (@kenaqgardens) and visit us at www.kenaqgardens.org.

Also check out other Health & Wellness events in Washington, Workshops in Washington.