Hikes for the Soul
Around me the trees stir in their leaves and call out, “stay awhile.”the light flows from their branches. And they call again, “it’s simple,” they say, “and you too have come into the world to do this, to go easy, to be filled with light, and to shine.”― Mary Oliver, Evidence: Poems
Hikes for the Soul is a combination of hiking and yoga in which I guide fellow tranquillity seekers and nature lovers on an experience for the soul that is both soothing and a little out of the ordinary. Bringing in yogic breath work (pranayama) and meditation, this is a mindful walk that immerses us in the tall trees, with moments of quiet and stillness to enjoy and benefit from all that nature offers.
You will be gently guided by me, a Yoga Alliance certified yoga teacher of meditation, mantra, asana, kundalini kriya and pranayama, practices grounded in traditional yoga. My intention is to weave these beautiful practices into all that I do, in a way that is organic and accessible to all. No previous experience is necessary, just an openness to the practices and to a beautiful day immersed in nature.
HIKES FOR THE SOUL: TRENTHAM
Our hike begins on Dja Dja Wurrung Country in the Hepburn Shire, at the historic Trentham Railway Station. We will then journey along the Domino Trail, a flat path towards Lyonville. There will be a few opportunities for guided meditation and gentle pranayama, as well as mindful silent hiking and time to chat and connect.
We will cover 8 km of the Domino Trail, so a moderate amount of fitness is required, however the pace will be steady and unhurried, as we cultivate a sense of presence and peace in commune with nature.
LOCATION
We meet at the Trentham Railway Station and Visitor Information Centre. Parking is plentiful and there is no time limit. The hike will run for 4 hours.
GROUP SIZE
Maximum of 8 people
FOOD
A light snack will be provided (with dietary requirements observed), however you are welcome to bring lunch or snack if you would like something more substantial.
BRING
Comfortable trainers or hiking shoes, water, insect repellent, sunscreen and a lightweight, waterproof jacket (for whatever the spring weather brings).
INVESTMENT
Concession: $55
Full price: $75
*Prior to booking, please read the section under ‘General’ in the Terms and Conditions to ensure these hikes are for you.
UPCOMING HIKES: TRENTHAM
HIKES FOR THE SOUL: HEIDELBERG
Our hike begins at the Warringal Parklands in Heidelberg, land of the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung people, with a short meditation. We traverse the Main Yarra Trail towards Lower Plenty, taking in the abundant wildlife and restorative bushland, stopping at Wombat Bend for guided meditation and pranayama, before looping back towards Heidelberg. On our return we may spot one of the many resident kangaroos as we hike in mindful silence to the gentle hum of birdsong and the nearby Yarra River.
We will cover 8 km of the relatively flat Main Yarra Trail. A moderate level of fitness is required, however the pace will be steady and unhurried with opportunities to pause along the way.
LOCATION
We meet at the beginning of the dirt track section of the Main Yarra Trail, near the Banyule Tennis Club. Parking is available in the club’s car park and on the nearby street. The hike will run for approximately 3 hours.
GROUP SIZE
Maximum of 8 people
BRING
Comfortable trainers or hiking shoes, water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen and a lightweight, waterproof jacket (for whatever the spring weather brings).
INVESTMENT
Concession: $45
Full price: $60
*Prior to booking, please read the section under ‘General’ in the Terms and Conditions to ensure these hikes are for you.
UPCOMING HIKES: HEIDELBERG
Hikes for the Soul is more than just a guided walk. Through weaving meditation and breathwork into the experience, Danielle helps you shake off the stress of the everyday and return to the core of who you are. Danielle is lovely, warm and welcoming and makes you feel at ease from the moment you arrive. You are in very safe hands with her. The effects of the hike stay with you long after you get back in your car and return home. You will experience subtle shifts and changes, which you may not even attribute to the hike. In the week following the hike, I broke out of the TV-and-scrolling rut I had been in, rediscovered my flow and took more intuitive action which created more momentum in my life. Hikes for the Soul is a very special, very unique experience and something that everyone should do regularly. ~ Tanya
My first experience with Hikes for the Soul was simply beautiful. Danielle’s authentic and warm energy made everyone in the group comfortable and relaxed from the beginning. The meditation and breath practises incorporated at key points throughout the experience were wonderful, creating a sense of groundedness and presence. I found this to greatly enhance my experience of the walk itself. I would highly recommend Hikes for the Soul. It is the perfect mini escape from our hectic, and overstimulated lives – a much needed reset. I will be re-booking again soon! ~ Jess
Danielle offered a gentle, wonderfully balanced experience of nature, connection and meditation. An experience I highly recommend to reset and centre body and mind. ~ Kim
Such an energising experience. When you are walking through the forest in silence, taking note of your surroundings and each foot as you march along, it really does feel like the ‘stresses’ of the world are miles away. Danielle has such a gentle and calming presence, you can’t help but feel nurtured with each step. ~ Sarah
Hikes for the Soul was a wonderful experience. Danielle made me feel so comfortable and relaxed, and as though she really cared about making it a great experience for us all. It could have felt awkward in a group of people I didn’t know, but with Danielle’s calming presence this wasn’t a problem. The breathing exercises were all new to me, but Danielle guided us through them expertly. I think merging two experiences – hiking and breathing exercises – makes each individual experience more fulfilling. Highly recommend! ~ Kel
CONTACT
Please use the below for any questions you might have about the Hikes for the Soul experience.
I am also available on selected Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for private, small group bookings.