Inside Vancouver

Forest Bathing – Vancouver Style

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on July 4, 2017

Solitude on the Trail Photo: Rob Weiss

Recently, I read an interesting and compelling article on a new health trend called Forest Bathing. Being an outdoorsy type and nature lover, whenever I see or hear the word “forest” my curiosity peeks! Fascinated, I decided to learn more about the Japanese practice of Forest Therapy. Developed in the 1980’s, Forest Bathing or Shinrin-yoku is the medicine of simply being in the forest. Widely recognized as a pillar of preventative health care, folk around the world are seeking their nature fix.

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Forest Bathing – Vancouver Style

For the Birds – Rainy Day Walks at Maplewood Flats

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on March 28, 2017

Birding at the Maplewood Flats Conservation Area Photo: Rob Weiss

Affectionately known by locals as Maplewood Flats, the Maplewood Conservation Area in North Vancouver is an ideal destination for a rainy day walk. Managed by the Wild Bird Trust of BC, this wonderful natural area along Burrard Inlet near the base of the Iron Workers Memorial Bridge, is home to over 230 species of birds and features 3km of easy walking trails to explore.

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For the Birds – Rainy Day Walks at Maplewood Flats

Rock On – Vancouver’s Rock Balancing Artists

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on March 7, 2017

Photo: Flickr Mark Klotz

Being an “outdoorsy” type I naturally, pun intended, gravitate to artists who find their inspiration in the great outdoors. Photographers who capture the magic golden hour light over the North Shore Mountains, visual artists who skillfully paint landscapes and seascapes and musicians who portray the beauty of nature in their work. Particularly intriguing for me are those artists who implement natural materials in their creations. Astonishing sculptures made only of driftwood, roots, and burls trigger my imagination. Gravity defying sculptures made of rock cause me to pause and reflect. I find this artistic collaboration between man and nature captivating!

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Rock On – Vancouver’s Rock Balancing Artists

Now is the time to Stroll Through UBC

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on February 21, 2017

UBC Museum of Anthropology Photo: Flickr Colin Knowles

Nothing energizes your body and stimulates your mind better than a good old fashioned stroll in the park, and a walking tour of the University of British Columbia campus promises to inspire and delight! A community unto itself, UBC is an emblem of all things Vancouver – picturesque, vibrant and a symbol of our past and vision for our future. From the lush greenery of Pacific Spirit Regional Park to the extraordinary exhibitions housed at the Museum of Anthropology, UBC has much to offer.

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Now is the time to Stroll Through UBC

18 Step Out Destination Walks for Family Day

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on February 10, 2017

Strolling in Vancouver Photo: Rob Weiss

One of the best ways to explore any City is on foot, and I am proud to say, Vancouver is no exception! A city of natural treasures, Vancouver consistently ranks as one of Canada’s most walkable cities and Family Day is a perfect excuse to embark on a self-propelled adventure. There is no need to leave civilization behind to appreciate a nature walk. Simply put, just lace up and go outside! No special gear required. Once there, challenge yourself, friends and family, to disconnect to reconnect. Life will slow down. Observe – smell, listen, touch and enjoy!

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18 Step Out Destination Walks for Family Day

Chase the January Blues away on the North Shore Spirit Trail

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on January 25, 2017

North Shore Spirit Trail Photo: Rob Weiss

Suffering from a case of the January “blues?” Behind on your 2017 fitness resolutions? The award-winning, North Shore Spirit Trail may be exactly what you are looking for! Rain or shine, a quick jaunt along the North Shore Spirit Trail is guaranteed to lift your spirits and chase the January blues away! Ultimately, this fully accessible Greenway and waterfront corridor will connect Horseshoe Bay to Deep Cove – a real North Shore treasure!

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Chase the January Blues away on the North Shore Spirit Trail

BC Parkway – Searching for Fall

by Jane Weiss in Uncategorized on September 29, 2016

Flickr Photo: Totororo

Exploring the lower mainland by bicycle is always a treat, and today was no exception. We decided to begin our ride at the New Westminster Quay and head into Vancouver via the BC Parkway. Formerly known as the 7-11 trail, this multi-use urban pathway is 26 kilometers long and follows the Expo Sky Train line from Surrey, to New Westminster, South Burnaby and into Vancouver. Recent upgrades to the path, including new wayfinding signage and freshly paved sections, have improved safety for both cyclists and pedestrians.

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BC Parkway – Searching for Fall