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A Day of Japanese-Inspired Creative Practices

  • Jun 26
  • 2 min read

August 1st 11ам- 6pm

New Paltz


Exploring Nature, Beauty, Creativity & Wonder


What happens to creativity when we stop trying so hard?


Join us for an immersive day inspired by Japanese traditions that cultivate attention, curiosity, and a different way of seeing. Through forest bathing, ikebana, and ceramics, we'll explore a quieter approach to creativity—one rooted in presence, play, and the freedom to follow what naturally unfolds.


Our journey begins in the forest with Shinrin-yoku, or guided forest bathing, led by Katya Pemberton. Far more than a hike, this is a slow, sensory experience—an invitation to step away from the pull of screens and schedules and into the gentle rhythms of the natural world.


Through a series of simple invitations, we'll awaken curiosity, deepen our attention, and discover fresh ways of seeing. Research suggests that time spent in nature can calm the nervous system, strengthen immune function, improve focus, and lift our mood. More importantly, it reminds us that we belong to something larger than ourselves, restoring a sense of wonder, ease, and connection.


After our morning in the forest, we'll gather for a relaxed potluck lunch. Please bring a favorite dish to share and enjoy good food, conversation, and community.


In the afternoon, you'll choose one of two hands-on creative workshops, each inspired by the Japanese appreciation of simplicity, natural materials, and the beauty of imperfection.



Ikebana & Driftwood

Create sculptural arrangements using driftwood and seasonal plants while exploring balance, form, negative space, and the quiet elegance that emerges when nature becomes your creative partner.



Ceramics Workshop

Spend the afternoon working with clay, discovering the calming rhythm of hand-building as you shape a unique ceramic piece to take home.


If you'd like to extend the experience, you're welcome to stay overnight at Dragon Nest Retreat Center. On Sunday morning, we'll take an optional hike together to one of the beautiful waterfalls in Minnewaska State Park.


Come spend a summer day creating without pressure, reconnecting with nature, and discovering what becomes possible when we slow down enough to truly notice, explore, and make.



Registration

WhatsApp: 973-896-9320


Tuition

Early Bird: $95 through July 26

Regular Tuition: $125 after July 26


Payment:

Zelle or Venmo — 973-896-9320





Facilitated:


Victoria Ostrovsky

Art educator and ceramic artist. She lived and worked in Japan for several years and has led five original cultural tours throughout the country. Victoria brings to her workshops a deep appreciation for Japanese aesthetics, craftsmanship, and mindful creative practice.



Dina Ostrovsky

The founder and primary teacher at TERRApia School of Transformation.

She weaves together modern psychology, creative expression, and ancient spiritual practices into transformational programs designed for those seeking to create profound and meaningful change.

Dina is a certified process-oriented facilitator with a master’s degree from Process Work Institute.

Since 2013 she has led countless personal and group psychedelic integration sessions in the New York and Boston areas. Prior to that, Dina served as a clinical director of a holistic rehabilitation clinic in Costa Rica. She has also assisted the renowned elder TaitaJuan Bautista Chindoy, a traditional healer associated with Colombia’s Yagé tradition, during multiple addiction-program retreats in Malinalco, Mexico as an integration therapist.



Katya Pemberton


 
 
 

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