ForestMinds – The fullness of summer
A walk to slow down, breathe, and feel the summer surrounded by nature.
Walk. Observe. Be Present.
In July, summer reaches its peak. The long days, the intensity of the light, and the maturity of the landscape invite us to slow down and fully embrace the present moment. In nature, it is a time of abundance, but also of pause: a subtle balance between the season’s energy and the serenity it inspires.
Between light and shadow, between movement and stillness, summer reminds us of the beauty of being fully and simply present.
The invitation of this walk is simple: slow down, observe, and allow yourself to experience this moment in its entirety.
An opportunity to reconnect with the rhythms of nature, celebrating the fullness of summer through awareness, lightness, and the pleasure of being present.
"Today, we do not walk to arrive somewhere. We walk simply to be."
About ForestMind
ForestMind is a Finnish method created by Sirpa Arvonen, combining the experience of walking in nature with guided exercises and practices focused on mindfulness, reflection and sensory connection with the environment.
This method offers benefits such as stress reduction, increased wellbeing and mental clarity, improved emotional health, a deeper connection with the natural environment, and a greater appreciation of natural heritage — encouraging a slower, more respectful and meaningful way of experiencing natural spaces.
Throughout 2026, certified Forest Mind guides from the Sociedade de Ciências Florestais / Centro de Ecologia Aplicada Prof. Baeta Neves at the Instituto Superior de Agronomia will lead a monthly, unmissable session in unique locations — the Park of Monserrate, the Hunting Grounds of Monserrate, the Convent of the Capuchos woodland, or the Park of Pena.
Scheduled Sessions
22 August: “Welcoming Silence” — Convent of the Capuchos
Disconnect from noise and rediscover transformative silence
19 September: “Returning to Balance” — Park of Pena
Reorganise your living space and regain focus on your path
17 October: “The Magic of Change” — To be confirmed
Accept change and discover its transformative potential
21 November: “The Wisdom of Introspection” — To be confirmed
Slow down and find the answers within
19 December: “Celebrating the Journey” — To be confirmed
Close the year with intention, gratitude and awareness of the path taken
More information
- Location: Hunting Grounds of Monserrate
- Time: 10:00 AM
- Duration: 2h
- Target Audience: Young people and adults (10+ years)
- Meeting Point: Park of Monserrate Entrance
- Languages: Portuguese and English
- Accessibility: Uneven terrain with slopes and steps
- Additional Information: The activity is led by a certified ForestMind guide. It is recommended to wear comfortable footwear and bring water.