Science shows that it reduces stress, controls anxiety, improves sleep, relieves pain, and decreases blood pressure.
Sunset Meditation starts at Socrates Sculpture Park on May 7 at 7 pm. Then, the program runs weekly on Tuesdays through Aug. 27.
Designed for all experience levels and practices, the roughly one-hour activity includes mindful breathing, mindful movement, and loving-kindness meditation.
Attendance is free, and no pre-registration is required. Participants are encouraged to bring yoga mats, blankets or cushions. (A few chairs and mats are available on a first-come-first-served basis.)
These Sunset Meditation sessions are designed by Mindful Astoria, a group of local enthusiasts that’s existed since 2013. All teachers have completed at least 200 hours of training. Mindful Astoria’s founder is Emily Herzlin, a certified Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Teacher who trained at the UMass Chan Medical School.
The main entrance to Socrates is 32-01 Vernon Blvd. It’s not near a subway station, but on-street parking is usually available. The Q 104 bus stops nearby.
Image: Bob Kranser/Socrates Sculpture Park