The calls and postures of birds can tell us much about what is happening in the world - the location of predators, presence of other humans, and even our own awareness and mindset. Designed to support anyone who wishes to expand their understanding of what is happening on the landscape, this course explores bird language and its applications: to understanding birds, to relationships, to tracking, and to the quiet mind. Explore how our presence on the land is felt by the more-than-human world.
Class meets four Sundays in the field. During this time, core routines of invisibility will be practiced along with "group sit spots," followed by debriefing, questioning, and storytelling. We will also meet four evenings in town to discuss our experiences in the field and at home. Weekly assignments, involving spending time sitting outdoors and journaling, will be given to aid the learning process.
Field sessions:
When: Sunday March 22, March 29, April 12, and April 19; 7am-11am
Location: Clear Creek Natural Area, located near Carver, about a 45 minute drive from Portland
Classroom sessions:
When: Wednesdays April 1, 8, 15, and 22; 6pm-8pm
Location: Leaven Community Center or nearby Alberta Park
About the instructor: GuruSurya Khalsa has been studying bird language since 2008 and has been teaching bird language workshops through PCC, the Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge and METRO. Most mornings you can find her on her small porch in SE Portland tuning into the Song Sparrows, Crows and other “regulars”. Once a week, she’s often participating in a group bird sit in Mt. Tabor Park. GuruSurya is passionate about helping people recognize that their own state of being and awareness determines how much they experience while out on the land - or in the city!