Many of us move through the day in a state of heightened stress activation: alert, overstimulated, tense, or mentally overloaded. Over time, that can affect our energy, focus, sleep, mood, relationships, and ability to recover.

The encouraging news is that the nervous system is responsive and adaptive. Through simple practices using breath, movement, and awareness, we can help the body shift out of chronic stress patterns and into states that support steadiness, clarity, and recovery.

These practical skills, available to everyone, can support personal well-being and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable workplace culture. Current neuroscience and trauma research increasingly affirm what many contemplative and embodied traditions have long understood: the body holds powerful pathways for restoring balance and well-being.

This two-hour session offers an approachable introduction to nervous system regulation through direct experience rather than lecture alone. Participants will learn how to recognize common stress responses in themselves, understand what their nervous system may be asking for in moments of overwhelm or shutdown, and practice tools that can be used on the job and in everyday life.

The session includes a clear overview of the science behind stress and regulation, guided group discussion, space for questions, and a 45-minute experiential practice incorporating accessible movement and breathing techniques. Participants can expect to leave feeling more grounded, more aware of their own patterns, and better equipped with practical tools for managing stress, improving resilience, and supporting overall well-being.

These sessions will be offered in various locations in the Yosemite area:

• June 15: Yosemite Valley (Yosemite Valley Library - indoors)

• June 16: Wawona (Wawona Community Center - indoors)

• June 17: Mather District (Rush Creek - Private Dining Room - indoors)

• June 18: Tuolumne Meadows (Picnic Tables near SAR Cache - outdoors)

You will receive a Welcome Email upon registration with more information and location details.

If you have a yoga mat or blanket, please bring as our practice may include gentle movement.

We encourage you to bring anything else you need to be comfortable in a possible outdoor setting: layers, water bottle, sun protection/bug protection.

If you wish to take notes, it will be handy to have a journal and pen/pencil.

Optional: camp chair or Crazy Creek chair

Registration for this workshop includes the following:

• Detailed, professional instruction

• Techniques and tools for regulating your nervous system

• All necessary activity supplies

Yes, PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. These sessions will cap at 20 participants. If we reach max capacity there will be a waitlist.

No prior experience is necessary! This session is open to all who are excited to learn and explore a new skill in a supportive community setting.

How much does it cost?

This workshop is free, thanks to a generous grant from the Yosemite Conservancy and brought to you by Yosemite Health and Wellness in partnership with Balanced Rock.

If you’d like to support future programs like this, donations to Balanced Rock will help us continue offering accessible, subsidized experiences for years to come.

Learn More and Donate Here