Bilingual Outdoor Programs in April with Song Dog Relations
Stacey Villalobos
Much is revealed when we allow our eyes to adjust to the night sky. The stars and the moon make known the stories that exist within the darkness of the landscapes we call home. Cultures across the world have looked to these luminaries for guidance on agricultural practices, architecture, healing traditions and more. Eighty percent of bird migrations occur at night, seeking dark skies to illuminate their routes and orient them home. What can we learn about the land and ourselves as we tread lightly under the glow of la luna y las estrellas?
Cuentos Nocturnos is a three hour full moon hike that takes place in the Petroglyph National Monument of Albuquerque on Wednesday, April 1st. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the nocturnal lives that exist within the volcanic landscape, while a series of stories and poems will ground our hike along the way. As the sun departs and the moon rises to greet us, we are encouraged to lean into any discomforts the night sky may bring, acknowledging their presence and moving them along through somatic exercises and co-regulation activities.
Participants should expect to walk up to 3 miles total, carrying a backpack that will store their water, snacks, headlamps and any other materials they wish to bring. Dressing in layers is highly encouraged due to shifts in weather conditions. Song Dog will be providing hot beverages, so bring your own mug or thermos!
*This hike is offered in English but may consist of bilingual shares in Spanish. To learn more and register, please click here.
Botanical bike rides are back! And we are starting off the Spring season botanizing under the new moon and in anticipation of Earth Day!
The Sandhill cranes are departing and we welcome all the plants that are returning from dormancy. As we move towards warmer weather, we will notice which flowers prefer current climate conditions. There will be many plants to smell, touch and possibly taste! In this program, participants will learn the basics of local botany and dive into stories that consider the cultural and ecological knowledge of the Middle Rio Grande Valley.
Participants should expect to bike up to 8 miles total, on mostly flat and paved, gravel and dirt trails. Mountain bikes are preferred but road bikes can also manage. We will begin at Tingley Beach and make stops along the way to the Rio Grande Nature Center. This program will run for three hours with breaks for rest, snacks and observations. Please bring water, snacks, a journal or sketchbook and something to write with. Herbal tea is always served so bring a mug!
*Spanish interpretation is available* To learn more and register, please click here.