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Field Guides has partnered with the Mindful Birding Network to offer a unique retreat that combines birding with the restorative practice of mindfulness.

Set among the spectacular red-rock landscapes of Sedona and the cool waters of Oak Creek, this unique retreat invites you to experience birding in a different way. Together, we'll explore the practice of Mindful Birding, an emerging style of birding that blends the observation of birds with simple mindfulness practices, allowing us to engage more fully with the birds and landscapes around us while also experiencing many potential health benefits including reduced stress, lowered anxiety, and elevated mood. If you're new to mindful birding, you'll find a more detailed introduction in the itinerary.

Holly Thomas and Holly Merker, of the Mindful Birding Network and co-hosts of The Mindful Birding Podcast, are internationally recognized for pioneering the practice of Mindful Birding and together bring decades of combined experience and training in mindfulness, professional bird guiding, and nature-based wellness programming. They are joined by Chris Benesh, whose extensive knowledge of Arizona's birds, wildlife, and natural history enriches the retreat experience.

We've carefully selected the award-winning Briar Patch Inn, Sedona's "Nature Resort" as our home base for the retreat. Nestled beneath towering cottonwoods and sycamores along Oak Creek, the property invites us to settle into one place and become familiar with its natural rhythms. Morning birdsong, the changing light on the canyon walls, the gentle movement of the creek, and the regular visits of birds to the feeders become companions throughout the retreat, reminding us that meaningful nature experiences often unfold when we stay still long enough to notice.

Our days will include exploring some of northern Arizona's most beautiful habitats--from striking Red Rock State Park to the tranquil waters of Page Springs. Along the way we'll encounter an impressive diversity of birds while exploring how mindful attention can enrich both our birding and our overall experience of the natural world. Spring bird specialties may include Summer Tanager, Yellow-breasted Chat, Common Black Hawk, Violet-green Swallow, Bell's Vireo, and Black-chinned Hummingbird. As we wander the trails, we may encounter a variety of flycatchers including Western Wood-Pewee, Black Phoebe, Vermillion, Ash-throated, and Brown-crested flycatchers, and Cassin's and Western kingbirds, in addition to many other riparian species. Spring also brings a mix of warblers to the Verde Valley including Lucy's, Virginia’s, Northern Yellow, Common Yellowthroat, Grace's, and Painted Redstart.

Intentionally spacious afternoons will have optional guided experiences and allow time for personal reflection, journaling, photography, relaxing by the creek, or simply doing nothing at all. Optional guided evening offerings may feature stargazing, exploring nocturnal wildlife, sharing a gratitude practice, and reflecting on the highlights of the day.

Whether you're an experienced birder curious about mindfulness, someone new to birding and eager to explore the natural world in a supportive setting, or simply seeking a restorative retreat in nature, we hope you'll join us for this memorable experience in one of the Southwest's most inspiring landscapes.

Select the KEY INFO tab or click here for our itinerary plus space requests, status, fees, limits, and guides for any departure.

Client comment
"Guide Chris Benesh was extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of Arizona! His organization and preparation for each step of the trip was great. He also took into consideration the needs of each individual in our group, making sure we all saw the birds. He is very personable and a pleasure to travel with! Your office's service was very responsive and helpful." C.B., ARIZONA tour participant